The Workout: Songwriting for individuals who:

• Are actively pursuing a career—or serious hustle—as a songwriter and/or musician

• Have prior experience in songwriting

• Have a basic ability to play an instrument and an understanding of chord structure.

• Have a clear vision for their progress and goals as a musician and/or songwriter

• Are eager to collaborate with artists, peers, and industry experts

• Are open to self-reflection and constructive feedback as tools for growth

• Are located in Northern Colorado

• Are 18 years of age or older

Over seven weeks, participants will work with one another and guest facilitators to:

• Sharpen their songwriting craft. Each week, experienced guests and facilitators will lead writing exercises that deepen participants’ understanding of form, harmony, melody, and lyrics.

• Expand their creative toolbox. Sessions are hands-on and project-based, equipping participants with practical strategies to break out of creative ruts and write in new contexts. Participants will leave with a collection of prompts, assignments, templates, and structures they can use in their own writing, collaborations, and teaching beyond the program.

• Build collaborative songwriting experience. Participants will write with and for one another, receive feedback, and connect with touring songwriters and music industry professionals.

Participants can expect these elements to be part of the program:

Cohort-based, Collaborative Music-Making, Pro Feedback, Peer Feedback, Hands-On Activities, Audio/Visual Presentation, Group Discussion, Share Works-in-Progress, Lecture

The Workout: Songwriting will take place over eight weeks with one in-person session per week on the following dates:

• Wed, Oct 14 | 6-9 pm

• Wed, Oct 21 | 6-9 pm

• Wed, Oct 28 | 6-9 pm

• Wed, Nov 4 | 6-9 pm

• Wed, Nov 11 | 6-9 pm

• Wed, Nov 18 | 6-9 pm

• Wed, Dec 2 | 6-9 pm

• Wed, Dec 9 | 6-9 pm

These sessions will take place onsite at the Music District. 

The Music District (639 S College Avenue, Fort Collins, CO, 80524).

A Music District Membership ($30/month) will be required for all participants of The Workout: Songwriting.

Important note: If selected and not yet a Music District Member, participants will be onboarded prior to the program start. The Music District team will reach out to schedule a one-hour onboarding session.

Membership includes access to all the Music District has to offer, such as rehearsal rooms, production space, a diverse array of musician-centric programs, industry 1-on-1s, pro gear and equipment, and much more.

After the program concludes, participants are welcome to continue their membership, if they wish.

Learn more about Music District Membership here.

All applications are reviewed by a committee of Music District staff. Selections are based on the strength, quality, and relevance of submitted musical examples, along with additional criteria specific to the program. Applicants will be notified of their status within 2–3 weeks of the application deadline.

Demonstrating strong songwriting ability is a key factor in the selection process, but we also consider how each participant will contribute to the overall dynamic of the cohort. We believe the program is strongest when the group is made up of driven, community-minded musicians with diverse experience, abilities, and perspectives.

The ideal Workout participant is someone:
(1) whose vision and artistic commitment are clear through the links and written entries submitted.
(2) who is community-minded (e.g., open to collaboration, excited to share skills and experience, willing to test new approaches, and ready to support and respect others in the process).
(3) who represents a unique perspective, experience, style, and/or musical skillset.

The Music District’s signature program, The Workout, is hands-on, cohort-based, and built for working musicians. Each multi-week intensive dives deep into one focus area, features mentorship from industry pros, and ends with something real that you created—like a fully mixed and mastered track. Walk away with new skills, solid connections, and tools to thrive in today’s music world.