AFTER HER FIRST PRACTICE MARATHON RETREAT AT MAGIC MOUNTAIN MUSIC FARM, CELLIST AMY FROST WROTE: "In the spaciousness and quiet beauty of MMMF I have felt totally focused in my practice. There was a spirit of joyful creativity in the house that was rare and inspiring. I was thrilled and surprised to discover the intensity of what I have to say." AFTER ATTENDING EIGHT RETREATS IN AS MANY YEARS, SHE WROTE . . .

"At this session, I felt I pushed past the previous boundaries of my artistic expression by discovering new ways to design and hear emotional character and rhythmic style. I was able to communicate more convincingly and confidently with my instrument."

ONE MONTH LATER, SHE WON THE AUDITION to become Principal Cello of the Kennedy Center Opera Orchestra. Amy is one of many who have passed this way and fulfilled their dreams. Browse this section to experience a Practice Marathon Retreat in the words of the participants, and pictures of them in "marathon mode" at Magic Mountain Music Farm.