Recapping the First SongSight Music Mentoring Retreat

The inaugural SongSight Music Mentoring Retreat was an unforgettable weekend filled with music, camaraderie, and inspiration. Attended by blind musicians from 5 states, the retreat provided a unique opportunity for attendees to spend time with industry professionals, learn new skills, and celebrate their shared love of music. The event culminated in the recording of a powerful group song, “Let the Light In,” featuring American Idol’s Scott MacIntyre.

A Weekend of Music and Connection

From the moment attendees arrived, the air was buzzing with excitement and anticipation. The weekend was structured around a series of casual workshops and mentoring sessions, where participants could learn from accomplished musicians, experiment with new and unusual instruments, and explore their musicality. However, it was the spontaneous jam sessions that truly captured the spirit of the retreat. At any given moment, the sound of guitars strumming, pianos playing, and voices harmonizing could be heard throughout the venue. These impromptu collaborations highlighted the attendees’ immense talent and passion for music.

Quality Time with Industry Professionals

One of the retreat’s most cherished aspects was the opportunity for attendees to spend quality time with professionals who genuinely cared about their journeys. These mentors didn’t just share their expertise; they listened to the participants’ stories, offered personalized guidance, and formed lasting connections. For many attendees, this aspect of the retreat was as impactful as the musical instruction itself, providing them with a sense of community and support that extended beyond the weekend.

The Highlight: “Let the Light In”

The retreat reached its pinnacle with a recording session for “Let the Light In,” a song that beautifully encapsulates the life experiences of the retreat participants’ journeys through blindness. Co-written by Scott MacIntyre and country hit writer Burton Collins, the song is an anthem of hope and resilience. As Scott explains, “We really tried to put a lot of the fears and struggles we face as blind individuals into the lyrics and then make it an anthem for stepping out of the darkness, into the light.”

During the recording session, the energy in the room was palpable. Attendees poured their hearts into every note, creating a moving and powerful rendition of the song. The collaborative spirit of the retreat was beautifully captured in this performance, showcasing the unique voices and stories of each participant.

Watch and Listen

Take a moment to watch the video and listen to “Let the Light In.” The song is more than just music; it is a beacon of hope and a reminder that, no matter the challenges, we can all find our way into the light.

This retreat was just the beginning, and we look forward to many more weekends of music, connection, and inspiration!