Musicians Institute recently welcomed the Sonora LA Retreat 2026 to its Hollywood campus, bringing together guitarists, mentors, educators, and special guest Andy Wood for several days centered around playing, learning, and connecting through music.
The annual Sonora retreat brings its mentor team from the Sonora Guitar Intensive together with approximately 100 guitarists for an immersive, in-person experience featuring classes, collaborative jams, and live performances. This year, that experience took place right here at MI.
For MI students, events like Sonora offer another opportunity to experience the music industry beyond the classroom. By welcoming artists, educators, organizations, and music professionals to campus, MI continues to create opportunities for students to learn from and connect with the wider music community.
Andy Wood Performs at MI
One of the highlights of the retreat was a special appearance by guitarist Andy Wood, who joined the event for a live performance. Known for his versatility and technical command of the guitar, Wood brought another perspective to a weekend built around musicianship, collaboration, and developing as a player.
Blog Post
"*" indicates required fields
By submitting this form, I authorize Musicians Institute (MI) to make or allow the placement of calls, emails, and texts to me at the phone number that I have provided, including through the use of automated technology, or a prerecorded or artificial voice. I understand that I am not required to provide my phone number as a condition of purchasing any property, goods, or services. I agree to the terms of MI’s Privacy Policy. MI will not sell or rent your information to third parties, and you may unsubscribe at any time.
For guitar students, getting to see professional musicians perform up close can offer a different kind of learning experience. Technique, tone, improvisation, musical communication, and stage presence become something students can see and hear in real time rather than simply discuss in a classroom.
Connecting MI Students With the Music Industry
Partnerships and on-campus events are an important part of the experience at Musicians Institute. Located in the heart of Hollywood, MI regularly works with artists, brands, music organizations, and industry professionals to bring performances, clinics, workshops, and other opportunities directly to students.
These experiences complement the skills students develop in their programs while giving them opportunities to connect with musicians outside their immediate classes and explore different approaches to building a career in music.
From live performances to conversations between players, the weekend was another reminder that developing as a musician doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens by playing, listening, collaborating, asking questions, and becoming part of a larger music community.
Check out some of our favorite photos from the Sonora LA Retreat 2026 at Musicians Institute below.
