Join singer-songwriter Kendra McKinley for an intimate afternoon of creative exploration, followed by a dinner and community open mic.
Workshop | 2–5 PM Dive into a hands-on songwriting session with Kendra covering tools for writing, song form analysis, writing prompts, and how to quiet the inner critic. You'll have solo time to write with Kendra available for support, plus the option to share what you've made at the open mic. No prior songwriting experience or musical training required — bring an acoustic instrument if you play one, or write over instrumental recordings provided at the workshop. The space is designed to meet you wherever you are creatively.
Cocktail Hour | 5–6 PM Mingle, decompress, and connect with fellow participants over drinks.
Dinner & Open Mic | 6–9 PM Open to all. Share what you created during the workshop, listen to others, eat good food. The evening is yours.
Stay Over Can't bear to leave? Neither can we. Overnight accommodations are available for those who want to extend the magic.
Sliding Scale Hudson Valley artists and artisans — we want you there. If the price is a stretch, a limited number of sliding scale spots are available starting at $20. First come, first served — reach out to info@hilltowncommon.org to confirm your spot.
Tuition includes instruction & dinner. Alcohol is available for purchase.
About Kendra McKinleyKendra McKinley is a performer, producer, and artist rooted in the Hudson Valley. Her songwriting is sensual, sentimental, thoughtful, and fun. Whether she’s collaborating with international artists at the Guggenheim, teaching a rock band class, or fronting her own band, her presence creates connection and inspires deeper musical exploration.
Join singer-songwriter Kendra McKinley for an intimate afternoon of creative exploration, followed by a dinner and community open mic.
Workshop | 2–5 PM Dive into a hands-on songwriting session with Kendra covering tools for writing, song form analysis, writing prompts, and how to quiet the inner critic. You'll have solo time to write with Kendra available for support, plus the option to share what you've made at the open mic. No prior songwriting experience or musical training required — bring an acoustic instrument if you play one, or write over instrumental recordings provided at the workshop. The space is designed to meet you wherever you are creatively.
Cocktail Hour | 5–6 PM Mingle, decompress, and connect with fellow participants over drinks.
Dinner & Open Mic | 6–9 PM Open to all. Share what you created during the workshop, listen to others, eat good food. The evening is yours.
Stay Over Can't bear to leave? Neither can we. Overnight accommodations are available for those who want to extend the magic.
Sliding Scale Hudson Valley artists and artisans — we want you there. If the price is a stretch, a limited number of sliding scale spots are available starting at $20. First come, first served — reach out to info@hilltowncommon.org to confirm your spot.
Tuition includes instruction & dinner. Alcohol is available for purchase.
About Kendra McKinleyKendra McKinley is a performer, producer, and artist rooted in the Hudson Valley. Her songwriting is sensual, sentimental, thoughtful, and fun. Whether she’s collaborating with international artists at the Guggenheim, teaching a rock band class, or fronting her own band, her presence creates connection and inspires deeper musical exploration.
