Early-Bird Registration Now Open!

Healthy Music Making

Integrative Alexander Technique & Body Mapping in Practice & Performance

The 2025 MBMS Summer Retreat

What: A 6-day residential retreat focused on healthy music making via Integrative Alexander Technique and Body Mapping

When: July 27th – August 1st, 2025 (arrive late afternoon on July 27th; depart noon on August 1st)

Where: The DeKoven Retreat Center in Racine, Wisconsin

Who: Adult (18+) musicians, including instrumentalists, vocalists, teachers and conductors

Why: To consistently have a healthier and more joyful experience of making music

Faculty: Peter Jacobson, Kayla Leichty, Karen Archbold & Juliana Marin

Early-Bird Registration (Save $300) Ends May 22nd!

What is Healthy Music Making?

Dear Fellow Musician and/or Music Educator,

Thank you for your interest in our 2025 summer retreat!

This is our 7th annual summer retreat and I always look forward to this event with great anticipation. It is six of the most joyful and wonderful days of my entire year!

Our theme this summer is Healthy Music Making: Integrative Alexander Technique & Body Mapping in Practice & Performance.

Throughout the event, we'll be exploring what it means to be a whole, healthy musician in all aspects of music making – practicing, rehearsing, collaborating, and performing.

The Healthy Music Making approach consists of 7 core tenets:

Put Yourself First – learning how to practice self-care while playing or singing.
Wholeness – recognizing and honoring the fact that you are a whole person.
Freedom of Choice – the starting point of liberating ourselves from fear, pain and discomfort.
Movement Systems – understanding how the quality of our movement determines the quality of our sound and music-making experience.
Leading with Lightness – consciously choosing to emphasize kindness, self-compassion, play, joy and fun.
Process Over Product – learn to practice conscious, constructive thinking and planning, an essential ingredient for healthy playing and singing.
Community – together we will create a safe, supportive retreat community, which will multiply and amplify the learning.

Our main tools will be Integrative Alexander Technique and Body Mapping. The Alexander Technique has been used by performing artists for over a century to enhance and optimize their artistic work. Integrative Alexander Technique means that you will learn to integrate the work directly into the activities you care most about. Body Mapping – an offshoot of the Alexander Technique – is a way to learn about and cooperate with your body’s natural design.

Though the primary focus of this retreat will be applying Alexander Technique and Body Mapping to the activities of music-making – playing, singing, rehearsing, practicing and performing – there will also be ample space to explore other daily life activities like walking, sitting, standing, computer use, etc. through the lens of this work.

During the retreat, there will be lots of opportunities to participate in different classes, performing opportunities, workshops and more. In the evenings, we have fun social events and student performances. It’s a really fun week of learning, collaborating, celebrating and fellowship.

We want this event to be more than just a nice experience for you. Our primary goal is that you leave equipped and empowered with lifelong skills that you can use at any time, in any place and in any situation, musical or otherwise.

Make no mistake, this work goes deep. Significant – sometimes even life-changing – transformations are more common than not. At the same time, this work is all about lightness. We like to adhere to what F.M. Alexander said: "This work is too serious to be taken seriously."

This retreat will be the perfect opportunity to get away from the demands of your daily life and make an investment in yourself, your musicianship and your quality of life.

You will leave the week uplifted and inspired with a whole new sense of what’s possible in your music making and/or teaching. You’ll also have a new set of tools in your tools box to practice healthy music-making no matter what it is you’re doing.

I invite you to take some time to read more about this event below. If you have any questions or would like to speak with me directly about this event please send me an email and we can arrange a time to speak.

In Music,
Peter Jacobson
Founder & Director
The Mind Body Music School

Summer retreat participants playing together

Who It's For

If you resonate with any of these statements, you will be a good fit for this event:

I wish I felt more comfortable in my body when making/teaching music.
I’m ready to make a change in how I approach my music making and teaching.
I’m seeking a holistic, compassionate and healthy approach to music practice and performance.
I want to have a deep, meaningful and even transformational learning experience.
I want to be around other music learners and teachers that are kind, nurturing, supportive and inspire me to realize my full potential.
I’m looking for a live event where I can discover more about myself – who I am and what’s possible for my music.
I would love to learn new skills that apply not just music-making but all areas of my life.
I want to give and receive support inside of a learning community that encourages excellence through kindness, compassion and collaboration.
I want to gain new knowledge about how to better organize my body and bring my whole self into my music making.

This event is open to all music educators and musicians (18+) – vocalists and instrumentalists.

Our events typically attract music teaching professionals and/or musicians (amateur, semi-professional or professional) who are serious about their craft. The people that get the most of our events have a strong desire to learn and grow inside a supportive community.

We warmly welcome musicians with no experience in the Alexander Technique as well as intermediate and advanced students of the work, including Alexander Technique teacher-trainees and teachers.

If you're wondering if this event would be a good fit for you, write us a message.

Retreat participant Emily Soule letting her voice soar

About the Retreat

What You'll Learn

Here are the some of the benefits you can expect to experience in this retreat (based on past student's reports):

Greater Confidence & Self-Worth

A stronger sense of personal and artistic self-worth
A deeper connection with your artistic purpose
Improved self-confidence – more courage and less fear

Improved Musicianship & Expression

Improved musical and technical skills
More authentic musical expression and storytelling
Better listening skills

Body Freedom

A reliable way to free your body from unwanted tension
A deeper understanding of how your whole body works
Music-making that is relaxed, free and unencumbered

The Daily Schedule

(Subject to change)

Morning

7:00am – 8:00am Morning Meditation & Movement (Optional)
8:00am – 9:00am Breakfast
9:00am – 10:00am Opening Session – Games & Activities (Large Group)
10:00am – 1:00pm Learning & Embodying the Core Healthy Music Making Principles (Small Groups)

Afternoon

1:00pm – 2:00pm Lunch
2:00pm – 4:00pm Flex Time: Individual Practice, Ensemble Rehearsals, Private Sessions or Free Time
4:00pm – 6:00pm Elective Sessions/Special Topic Workshops (Small Groups)

Evening

6:00pm – 7:00pm Dinner
7:00pm – 9:00pm Evening Activity or Free Time

NOTE: Day 1 & Day 6 will follow a different schedule.

The Activities

Celebrations of Music

We will have 2 separate Celebration of Music events on the last two evenings – one for solos and one for ensembles. These events are a great way to put into practice what you are learning in front of a friendly audience. During these events, we put the focus on connection with the audience rather than perfection. We truly celebrate every musician and what they have to offer.

Community Performance

One of the other highlights of our retreat is a performance in the local community, typically at senior or assisted living facility.

Morning Meditation & Movement Sessions

Every morning, before breakfast, we will be offering optional morning meditation and movement sessions to help you get centered and present for the day of learning ahead.

Walks & Bike Rides

There will also be opportunities to go for walks and bike rides on the shores of nearby Lake Michigan. Depending on interest, bikes may be available to rent for a small additional fee with advance notice.

Evening Activities

The evenings are yours to do as you please. We do offer optional activities like movie night, game night, tango lessons, arts & crafts. There's also the option of various outdoor activities like bike rides or walks by the lake.

Retreat participants enjoying themselves during a large group session

The Faculty

The 2025 Summer Retreat Faculty (L to R): Kayla Liechty, Peter Jacobson, Karen Archbold, Juliana Marin

Kayla Liechty, Collaborative Pianist

Kayla Liechty is Vocal Coach and Collaborative Pianist at Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU), where she coaches voice students, co-instructs Stagecraft for Singers and opera / musical theatre productions, and collaborates in student, faculty and guest artist recitals. Prior to coming to ENMU, she was a full-time collaborative pianist and coach at the University of Oklahoma (2002-2005) and Director of Accompanying at Stetson University (1992-2002).

Kayla received a Bachelor of Music Education degree in piano from Stetson University (1990) and a Master of Music degree in Accompanying and Piano Pedagogy, as well as a Master of Music Education degree, from The Florida State University (1992). Piano teachers who have made a difference in her life are Sharon Walker, Mary Lou Krosnick, Eugene Hudson, Michael Rickman, Karyl Louwenaar and Carolyn Bridger.

Equally adept at both vocal and instrumental accompanying, Kayla has collaborated with many of the finest musicians of our time. Her work with operatic singers and stage directors includes master classes and residencies with Marilyn Horne, Sherrill Milnes, Tito Capobianco, Fabrizio Melano, Jennifer Larmore, Martina Arroyo, Marquita Lister, Leona Mitchell and Maria Spacagna. Of the numerous instrumentalists she has collaborated with in recital, most notable are oboist Wayne Rapier, tubist John Griffiths, bass trombonist Jonathan Warburton, pianist Charles Wadsworth and trumpeter Fred Mills. As a choral accompanist, she has accompanied choirs in Carnegie Hall (five performances), China, Newfoundland, Norway and throughout Europe, spending two seasons as accompanist for the renowned Santa Fe Desert Chorale (organist for the 2003 Journeys of the Spirit CD). Kayla spent a decade as a vocal coach and accompanist for Sherrill Milnes' summer opera workshop, VOICExperience!, and was National and Open-Call Auditions Pianist for Walt Disney World Entertainment for many years.

In the area of scholarly and artistic endeavors, Kayla's contributions include "Bach to Bix" (a CD collaboration with tubist Ted Cox); "The French Connection" (a CD collaboration with hornist Eldon Matlick); an 80-accompaniment CD companion to Roberto Mancusi's recently published textbook, Voice for Non-Majors; and ENMU Choirs' Fall 2016 CD release, "What Sweeter Music". Academic presentations she has made include Professional Music Teachers of New Mexico Annual Conference (2011), Rocky Mountain CMS Conference (2012), National NAfME Conference (2014), SWACDA Conference (2015) and National ACDA (2016).

Publications of Kayla's include an article in the Neurocase journal (2003; 9: 493-503), entitled, Musical Skill in Dementia: A Violinist Presumed to Have Alzheimer’s Disease Learns to Play a New Song; an article in the MTNA journal, American Music Teacher (2013; 62; 24-28), entitled, Playing Well with Others: Nurturing Collaborative Skills in the Private Piano Studio; an article in the American Choral Directors Association journal, Choral Journal (2012; 53; 8-14), entitled, From the Bench: Facilitating Collaborative Support from the Choral Accompanist,and a book chapter, entitled "Nurturing Vocal Talent," in the book, The Nurturing of Talent, Skills and Abilities.

What Past Participants Say

"These retreats have changed my life in ways that I cannot even begin to articulate."

"My gratitude is immense. Thank you!"

–Jane R., Music Educator

"This was such a beautiful experience. I will certainly return next year."

"Throughout the week I gained knowledge about how to better organize my body and bring my whole-self into my music making. The faculty are amazing! Their gentle support and guidance encouraged us to explore the work and ourselves deeper. "

–Laura C., Singer

"The most profound addition to my musical journey I could have ever imagined."

"Absolutely exceeded expectations. I did not expect to walk away with so many new friendships. This retreat also cracked me open in a way I didn't expect (a little scary, but good). This experience not only invited me to be a more coordinated and expansive musician but human as well."

–Jen A., Singer & Violinist

"The retreat is right up there with the very top experiences of my life."

“Still on my endorphin high from the retreat. People are still saying to me 'you are absolutely glowing!' 'It makes me SO happy to see and hear you SO happy!' 'Are you in love?!' The retreat is right up there with the very top experiences of my life. I can’t think of a better sixtieth birthday present to give myself, which is how I framed it when I decided to sign up. (My birthday was a week later.) Magnifico!”

–Lynn L., Singer

"Before this experience, I was going through a rough patch with my own confidence as a musician..."

"...but much of the program focused on self-care and self-kindness, and I feel like this allowed me to focus inward and find ways to embrace my singing and work on a new level. I left the retreat with a more open heart and a stronger sense of self-worth. I am eager to continue learning from these teachers and students!"

–Nadine G., Singer & Voice Teacher

"Thank you for an incredible learning experience."

“Where to start? I have not had this much fun learning something new. I feel like I have found long lost family. You three leaders did such a great job guiding us through the week. I loved the concert that we gave to the nursing home. Listening to the soloist and being part of the chorus was wonderful. I think the highlight for me was the New Talent and Fran's morning sessions. When I share my week experiences, I light up and move my arms with much excitement. Everyone loves the play by play of the week❤️. Thank you for an incredible learning experience.”

–Linda R., Singer

“Watching others' transformations was so exhilarating and informative."

"When I came home, I was a better teacher, taking more time to listen and to not worry about having all the answers right away. My own singing the next Sunday, after two weeks of not singing before, was relaxed, free and unencumbered.”

–Lisa R,, Singer & Voice Teacher

“I LOVED the retreat."

"I learned so much about myself, perhaps most significantly that I could give myself permission to do (or not do) some things. That seems basic when I see it in writing, but in the context of self-care, it was a radical realization for me.”

–Margaret Q., Singer

“The retreat was a very positive experience for me. I was so inspired by other teachers and artists."

"There was a balance of musical concepts and connecting with ourselves as a person. The highlight for me was the explanations and the circle singing. This retreat made me want to find a deeper connection with my inner compass. Also learn more about the human body.”

–Yedda H., Singer & Teacher

"I felt like it didn't matter that I am not a professional, but felt like what I thought and felt was valid.”

“I loved the casual masterclass atmosphere, the way everyone was treated with love and respect, and as if we were the only one in the room. The opportunity to explore our creativity was welcome, and way more fun than I thought it would be. Activities that encouraged play are not usually something that I enjoy, but since this was a judgement free zone, I felt more comfortable."

–Martha S., Pianist & Choral Director

“Because of the safe and trustworthy space created for freedom of exploration and discovery, I was able to lay aside my former self-judgement and fear of mistakes."

"When it came time to perform in front of everyone, I was not even thinking about the fact that there was an audience present, and I wasn’t nervous. My intention for every performance was to provide every possible aspect of support to the singer while creating beautiful music and a satisfying, enjoyable performance experience. Because I had not rehearsed with them, I gave full permission (to both myself and the singer) to expect mistakes and imperfections; this resulted in the ability to completely ignore or let go of those things as they occurred, and allow myself to be totally present in the joy of making music. It is truly one of the most rewarding things I’ve experienced in 40 years of music-making."

–Deb L., Pianist & Choral Director

“My experience of the retreat was an immersion in living and learning in grace and truth..."

"...of finding song and substance/soul within and seeing with new eyes, listening - opening, a blossoming awareness and connectedness to the beauty of our oneness in sound and being. There was joy in the simple things; the tiny shifts in mind and body which led to peaceful ease, the healing touch of a loving hand, a look shared between friends. I found comfort in being included, and noticed others finding it too. It was a safe space in which to begin to bloom and I gave myself permission to breathe free.”

–"Mama Donna" C., Singer

The DeKoven Center

The retreat will take place at the historic DeKoven Center in Racine, Wisconsin, located right on Lake Michigan. It's quite a magical place; we like to think of it as "The Hogwarts of the Midwest!"

There is an easily accessible bike path. Bikes will be available to rent with advance notice.

Lodging

Single, double and triple rooms are available.
The accommodations are simple, clean and comfortable.
Bathrooms will be shared by up to 6 people.
Unless you tell us who you'd like to room with, you will be assigned a roommate.
All rooms are air-conditioned.

A double room at the DeKoven Center

Meals

All meals are included in your retreat fees.

The DeKoven Center will gladly accommodate any food allergies or needs with sufficient advance notice. After you register, we will ask you to let us know if you have any special dietary needs. There will be a microwave and refrigerator available for personal use.

Getting There

Racine is about a 1 hour and 15 minute drive from the Chicago O’Hare Airport and about a 40 minute drive from the Milwaukee Airport.

There is free parking at the Dekoven Center.

We will be assisting in organizing ride sharing from the airports.

Arrival/Departure Times

Arrival on Day 1: Plan to arrive at the DeKoven Center on Sunday, July 27th between 3:00pm and 5:00pm. We will have dinner at 6:00pm followed by an opening session.
Departure on Day 6: The retreat will end at 12:00pm on Friday, August 1st.

Retreat participants in the Great Hall during a movement exploration

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer continuing education credit?

At this time, MBMS does not offer continuing education credit. However, many employers allow you to submit your hours independently for approval. In that case, we will provide you with any official documentation you need on official MBMS letterhead.

Do you offer certification through MBMS?

Yes! We offer certification through The MBMS Prelude Program.

Is financial assistance available?

Yes, we offer two forms of financial assistance:

1. Educator Grants – these grants are designed mainly for music educators that do not have access to professional development funds from an institution.

2. Scholarships – based on financial need and awarded through an application process.

To inquire about financial assistance, please write to MBMS director Peter Jacobson directly.

Is it possible to attend only a portion of the event?

Due to the fact that we will creating a short-term community built on trust and safety, it is not possible to attend only a portion of this event.

What if I have additional questions?

If you have additional questions, click the button below to contact us and we'll get back to you within 2 business days.

Registration Fees

Your registration fee includes all tuition, meals, and lodging.

Contact us directly via email to inquire about these following:

Commuter rates (with or without meals)
Monthly payment plans (10% fee may apply)
Educator grants
Need-based scholarships
Group discounts of 3 people or more

Refund Policy

Refunds will be offered before June 30th (less a $150 admin fee).
If you cancel, for any reason, between July 1st and July 15th, you will be offered an account credit (less a $150 admin fee) that you must use within 1 year towards any MBMS online program or live event.
If you cancel after July 15th you will forfeit your registration fee.
If you have a last-minute medical emergency or illness and need to cancel you will receive an account credit (less a $150 admin fee).

Early-Bird Pricing & Registration

Save $300 on your retreat fees if you register before May 22nd!

SINGLE ROOM

$1,995
$1,695

Access to all retreat classes & events
Lodging in a single room
All meals (3 per day)

DOUBLE ROOM

$1,795
$1,495

Access to all retreat classes & events
Lodging in a double room
All meals (3 per day)

TRIPLE ROOM

$1,595
$1,295

Access to all retreat classes & events
Lodging in a triple room
All meals (3 per day)

STUDENT RATE

$1,295
$995

Access to all retreat classes & events
Lodging in a triple room
All meals (3 per day)