Songwriting in Bali - FAQ

When does the Bali Songwriting Retreat start and finish?
  • The first session is at 4 pm on 7 June 2024.  It is recommended that you arrive into Denpasar airport no later than midday on 7 June in order to make it to Ubud in time for our first session.
  • The last session is at 10am on 14 June. If you're flying home that day, you'll need to book a flight that leaves after 4pm.

Do I have to share a bedroom?
No. To support your creative process, you will have your own air-conditioned bedroom and private ensuite bathroom.

Can you tell me a bit more about our accommodation?
Each spacious tropical villa has two or three bedrooms, a pool, tropical garden, open air lounge and fully-equipped kitchen with stove top, microwave, fridge, freezer and filtered water dispenser. You will have your own air-conditioned bedroom and private ensuite bathroom..

Do I need to be an experienced songwriter?
Not at all. Whether you're an experienced songwriter or someone who's brand new to the craft, Jane's sessions will have you writing with greater authenticity and confidence.

How are the classes structured?
All students attend Jane's morning songwriting class and an afternoon singing class with Pam Freeman. Once during the week, Jane will also host a songwriters' circle, where you have the opportunity to share works in progress from home and receive feedback. Find out more about this on the Daily Schedule page.

What if I don't have any songs from home to share?
It so doesn't matter!  It's just as important to be a listener, and to offer feedback to others.

Is there much free time?
Giving yourself time-out from writing is as important a part of the creative process as the writing itself. Because of this, the retreat program includes a daily four-hour break between morning and afternoon sessions.

I want to do some yoga while I'm in Bali. Is there somewhere nearby?
Yes. The Intuitive Flow yoga studio and The Alchemy Yoga and Meditation Centre offers a variety of daily classes and are located within  10-minutes' walk of your villa.

​Where is the retreat held?
In the hillside village of Penestanan, which lies around eight minutes' drive from the centre of Ubud. Numerous cafes, several shops and various massage options lie within a five minute stroll of your villa.

What about meals?
A villa staff member will visit your villa each morning to take care of cleaning, and to prepare you a simple breakfast of fresh tropical fruits, eggs, toast and Bali coffee. This is included in the retreat cost. All other meals are taken at inexpensive local cafes and warungs,

I have food intolerances. Will I be able to find stuff to eat?
Ubud is food intolerance heaven! Vegetarians are particularly well catered for, and Ubud's best-known vegan raw cafe, Alchemy, lies a two-minute walk from your villa front door. You'll also be able to source gluten-free bread locally.

Do I need to bring an instrument with me?
Every year there is at least one student who comes without an instrument, and it never hampers the songwriting process, with others on the retreat always willing to support you.  If you do plan to bring an instrument, make sure it's in a hard case suitable for travelling. Ukeleles are a great option, even if you're a beginner player – they're cheap, light, portable and very simple to play.

Can my non-participating partner or family member come with me?
Sorry, no. Booking a place at Juice is about finally making time for your writing. It has been our experience that trying to double-dip and turn this into a holiday with your non-participating family member hampers this objective. If the guilt fairy is knocking at your door, consider having your loved one(s) join you after the retreat.

How much is the retreat?
$1895, which includes all accommodation, breakfasts and an airconditioned, private ensuite bedroom in a shared villa with its own pool.

How do I book?
Secure your spot at the 2024 retreat with a $300 deposit – email Jane for bank details.