7:00–8:00 am — Yoga / Movement
8:00–9:00 am — Breakfast
9:30 am–12:00 pm — Morning Session (Whole Group) Vocal warm-ups, Indian classical voice, mantra, sonic meditation, and rhythm exploration 12:30–1:30 pm — Lunch
1:30–4:00 pm — Break (rest, practice, etc.)
4:00–5:30 pm — Small-Group Music-Making
6:00–7:00 pm — Dinner
7:30–9:00 pm — Evening Session (Whole Group) Ecstatic Chanting
Sheela Bringi Sheela Bringi (she/her) is a sacred music artist and educator rooted in North Indian classical, devotional, and Western musical traditions. Her evocative rāga harp, harmonium, bansuri, and Hindustani-inflected vocals create a luminous, transcendent sound. Raised in Colorado by her South Indian parents—her first teachers—Sheela later studied with maestros G.S. Sachdev and Aashish Khan, and continues Hindustani vocal training with Sri Subhashish Mukhopadyay. Her acclaimed mantra albums Shakti Sutra and Incantations have been featured by NBC News, NPR, and PRI. [. . .]
Brent Kuecker (he/him) is a yoga teacher, devotional singer, and musician who has spent 23 years helping people feel at home in their bodies. Walking the intertwined paths of Yoga and sacred sound, Brent supports others in remembering the body as a sanctuary—an instrument of listening, presence, and devotion. He has toured worldwide with Sacred Sound Lab co-founder Sheela Bringi, offering practices that open the voice, attune the nervous system, and restore inner balance through sound, breath, and movement. [. . .]
Mx Puja Singh (they/them) is a queer, non-binary, trans Indian-Canadian teacher of yoga, meditation, and devotional music based in Los Angeles. Their work supports students in slowing down, cultivating presence, and reconnecting with their authentic voice. Rooted in their Punjabi Sikh heritage, Puja is devoted to ongoing study of their lineage and the cultural traditions that inform their practice, sharing their offerings through a lens of decolonization and the dismantling of oppressive systems. Students describe Puja as warm, intuitive, and deeply grounding, with transcendent musical offerings that open the heart and invite stillness, healing, and connection. [. . .]
Nabin Shrestha (he/him) is an acclaimed tabla virtuoso and educator whose artistry bridges the depth of Hindustani classical music with contemporary global influences. Born and trained in Nepal, he has devoted his life to rhythm, earning a Master’s degree in Music from Gandharva Music University, the prestigious Shri Hari Om Trust Award, and an ICCR scholarship. His playing blends technical mastery with expressive, immersive rhythm, allowing him to move effortlessly between classical, fusion, jazz, and cross-cultural settings on stages across Nepal, India, and the United States. [. . .]
Elden Kelly
“To sing, play, learn and laugh together within that amazing sound creates an irresistible force into ecstasy and communion, with self and others. In my view it could only be that way, because we were safely held through the expertise and profound knowledge of our instructors.” – Anja A.
“The Sacred Sound Lab Retreat was an absolute joy! Sheela, Brent and Puja so thoughtfully create a space where every individual will be joyfully successful, regardless of their level of experience.” – Arti S.
“As the oldest participant, I would encourage anyone of senior citizen status not to let age be a barrier. Sheela and Brent did a great job in accommodating a variety of ability levels for shared spiritual practice which really opened all of our hearts; a truly beautiful experience!” – Karima T.
We have several accommodations to choose from during checkout.
All options include our healthy meals and drinks. Inc V, VG, GF.
Off Land
Participants who wish to commute from home or arrange their own accommodations off-campus (for example, a bed and breakfast, camping nearby) pay tuition, plus $40/night for meals (3 meals per day) and use of our facilities.
Car Camping
We have 5 primitive parking spots in the Rigden parking lot, for simply parking and sleeping. This includes food and access our bathhouses in Rigden Lodge
Note: We don’t have any water or electric hook ups for RV’s.
Single and Double Tents
Located in campgrounds throughout the property, these 12′ x 14′ tents have two twin beds, two bookcases and a hanging clothes rack.* Each campground offers a shared bathhouse. Summer platform tents are available from late May through early September. A tent can be rented as a single (without a roommate) or a double (with a roommate).
Some of our campgrounds were impacted by a recent wildfire and the affects may still be visible this summer, however, they are safe to use.
Bedding is not provided. Please bring your own twin sheets, blanket or sleeping bag, a pillow and towels.
Dormitories
Rooms with beds for up to 7-8 people. Gender-segregated with men in their own dorm and women in another. The dorms use a shared bathroom down the hall, which is also equipped with shower stalls.
Monk Rooms
A cost-effective option for participants looking for indoor, solitary lodging, but who don’t mind using a shared bathroom or are looking for a more affordable retreat solution. These rooms are in the same hall as the Ridgen Dormitories, but offer more privacy than the dorms. In addition to a bed, bedding, a private room and closet, the monk rooms also have a large window and a desk and desk chair for added comfort.
Single and Double Rooms
The perfect choice for a retreat where you want both your own space and your own bathroom. Each room offers a little more space, a dresser and closet, and a 3/4s bathroom (toilet, sink, and shower, no bathtub) attached to each room.
Junior Suite
Our Lodge Junior Suites include a queen-size bed topped by a cozy comforter, a desk, dresser, closet and private bath with bathtub, plus a sitting area.
What if I feel shy or self-conscious about my voice?
You’re not alone. Many people feel this way, and our container is compassionate and supportive. You’ll never be asked to sing solo unless you want to.
Is this retreat appropriate for beginners?
Yes. No prior musical experience is needed.
Do I need to prepare?
We offer optional self-paced prep videos (about 2.5 hours), plus harmonium materials for all levels. You’ll receive the link in your confirmation email from Drala.
Is this retreat right for me if I already have a musical practice?
Absolutely. Our instructors skillfully support all levels and help you grow within the group experience.
How physically active are the sessions?
Morning yoga/embodied movement is accessible with modifications for all levels. Music sessions involve mostly sitting (on the floor or in chairs), with full freedom to move or adjust as needed. Drala provides mats, cushions, and props.
Will I learn how to play an instrument?
You’ll deepen your vocal instrument, learn kartāl (finger cymbals), and explore rhythmic foundations used in kīrtan. Harmonium learners get optional prep materials. People who play are encouraged to bring their instruments.
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