18th Annual Reno Ukulele Festival Oct 21-24, 2026

Dates: Mon June 15-Fri June 19

Where: McMenamin’s Kennedy School 5736 NE 33rd Ave, Portland, OR 97211

Price: $450 (includes communal food, bass lessons, music room rental, and merch.

*Pricing not not include hotel room or travel costs. Book your room at McMenamin's Kennedy School.

**Students can attend without staying at the school.

Dani Joy is hosting a 5-day Women’s Bass Retreat at McMenamins Kennedy School in NE Portland, Oregon.

Get ready for a crash course in beginner bass! At this retreat (and in the curriculum leading up to it), women will learn the function of the bass, how to memorize the notes on frets one through four, and explore three different rhythm options. The curriculum will also include basic chord-building music theory as it applies to the bass. These concepts start with the fundamentals and move students beyond root notes and fifths—even touching on triads.

A good bass line can make a song, and a bad one can break the groove. At this retreat, we’ll dive into groove-building using cool rhythms, chromatic approaches, and even some gentle jazz voicings. But don’t worry—this retreat is designed with beginners in mind!

In addition to the beginner workshop, a secondary-level bass workshop will be offered for more experienced players looking to deepen their skills. This session will be taught by Perry Stauffer.

Dani Joy’s gentle teaching style, combined with the supportive and communal atmosphere of a women’s retreat, will leave you feeling refreshed, empowered, and inspired.

Join us!