Carol Montag
Singer/Songwriter
Workshops: 1. I Come From… 2. Let’s Get Real.
Carol Montag is an award-winnning performer, singer, songwriter, recording artist, and educator. She studied piano and flute while growing up and later taught herself to play guitar by ear. She drew inspiration from folk legends such as Judy Collins, Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, John Denver, Carole King, and many others. These early influences helped shape her distinctive voice as a singer/songwriter rooted in folk and Americana traditions.
Early in her performance career, Carol was described by folk music legend Tom Paxton as “A genuine discovery! The best thing to come out of Iowa since Bonnie Koloc.” Carol has opened for or shared the stage with Arlo Guthrie, Tom Paxton, Jim Post, Garnet Rogers, Michael Johnson, John Stewart, Three Dog Night, David Wilcox, Greg Brown, John Gorka, Cliff Eberhardt, Larry Groce, Kenny Rankin, and others.
Carol’s discography includes seven albums: Song for Carrie, White, Marigolds, and Strange Ballet which feature original music. Second Sermon is a collection of her favorite sacred songs, while Silent Night and Simple Gifts are Christmas recordings made while Carol performed as part of the trio known as Tribute. Carol has won awards for her songwriting and for her music videos. She has performed at the World Food Prize Laurette Ceremony and been commissioned to write music for the Des Moines Ballet and the LaCrosse Ballet.
Carol is…“A singer of new songs written by her for her. Carol is not folk or blues or modern, she cannot be categorized, she must be heard.” – Lloyd Moffitt, The Burlington Hawk Eye
Visit Carol at carolmontag.com.
Workshops
“I Come From…” Some of the most compelling songs begin with a simple truth from our own lives. In this workshop, participants will learn how to draw inspiration from personal memories, family history, defining moments, and everyday experiences. Through guided prompts and creative exploration, you’ll begin shaping your story into lyrics and discover how authenticity can bring depth and connection to your songwriting. By the end of the session, you’ll have the beginnings of a song rooted in your own unique perspective.
“Let’s Get Real.” Great songs often come from a place of honesty. In this workshop, we’ll explore how vulnerability and authenticity can transform a good song into a powerful one. Participants will learn how to move beyond surface-level ideas and tap into deeper emotions and experiences that resonate with listeners. Through discussion, examples, and writing exercises, we’ll look at ways to uncover the real heart of a song, write with greater emotional truth, and connect more meaningfully with an audience.