May 2013 Singings & Workshops

Scotland, Ireland, Wales, England

Wed, 8 May 2013 17:39:59 -0400

As always, the biggest and best selection of singing events comes from Scotland, Ireland, Wales and England. Truly, something for everyone. Sing for a day, an evening, a weekend, or a week. If you don’t live there, go visit, just for the singing.

By country, and then date in 2013:

SCOTLAND

April 13 'Healing Harmonies' with Kate O'Connell at Anam Cara retreat centre, Inverness Scotland. A day to explore the healing potential of your voice.....through vocal exercises and harmony songs. see www.katesvoices.co.uk

April 16 Singing Workshop - Sarah Harrop – Angus Folk Guest Tutor Angus Folk are delighted to welcome Sarah Harrop as a guest tutor for an evening singing workshop. This will be an extended class - from 7pm to 10pm - with a shared supper included in the evening. The class is open to everyone - AF members and the general public - come along to share an evening of songs and singing. Sarah has been working with community choirs and running singing workshops for the past 8 years since taking over as musical facilitator for Loadsaweeminsingin (Dundee Rep Theatre’s Womens Singing Group). She also runs Whitfield Community Choir and has worked as musical lead artist for Tayside Healthcare Arts Trust on singing projects for people with breathing and speech difficulties. Sarah has provided musical input into several community productions at Dundee Rep and writes many of the arrangements she teaches. Sarah’s musical taste is eclectic and she teaches acapella songs ranging from folk and world music to pop classics, gospel and soul, and everything in between. She is passionate about making her workshops inclusive, welcoming informal and fun; singing is for everyone! Information about the workshop can be found on our website: www.angusfolk.org. Please E.mail info@angusfolk.org to book a place or (preferably) fill out a workshop booking form (http://www.angusfolk.org/bookingform.asp) at any time to register and receive updates by E.mail. Kirriemuir Old Parish Church Hall £8 / £6 concessions (or one class card credit for AF Members) Contact: info@angusfolk.org or 07842 227202

April 20 Find Your Voice 3 Kate O'Connell
2 - 4pm. Kinloss, by Forres, Moray. £15/10. Contact: 01343 850266. http://www.katesvoices.co.uk
kateoc@naturalvoice.net One-off class for beginners and improvers. The mechanics of natural voicework. Develop the power, quality and range of your voice. Explore harmony. Deepen your connection with your voice. Good for singing and speaking, confidence, health and wellbeing.

Apr 20 Ali Burns Inspiring Leaders, Inspiring Singers 2 £12. There's no better way to learn how to lead groups of singers than by watching and learning. This series of workshops are for aspiring and emerging singing group leaders as well as for people who love to sing and are looking for great repertoire to share with friends. Ali Burns, Community Choir Director and veteran workshop leader will share inspired harmony songs that work in a broad variety of settings. Back-up resources are included as well as vocal warm-up exercises, mp3 files, and ideas on different ways to use the songs. There will also be a chance to stay behind for an additional one hour session to discuss the practice demonstrated in the workshop and begin to build a support network of aspiring teachers. This workshop is also open to those just wanting to come along and enjoy singing. Look out for consecutive workshops on Sat 20 April, Sat 18 May, and Sat 15 June, in association with TRACS, Scotland Sings and Hands Up For Trad. http://aliburns.co.uk/

May 18 Ali Burns Inspiring Leaders, Inspiring Singers 3

June 15 Ali Burns Inspiring Leaders, Inspiring Singers 4

May 4-10 Singing on Eigg 2013 Kate O'Connell isle of Eigg. £420-£450 all inc. Contact: 01343 850266. http://www.katesvoices.co.uk bill.catherine@virgin.net 6 days on the hebridean island, Glebe Barn hostel accommodation, all inclusive, Scottish and world songs and creative voice work . fantastic vegetarian food/special diets catered for. afternoons free to walk. ferry from Mallaig. . co-led with Bill henderson.

May 18-22 Sacred Harp Residential course at Laurieston Hall in Scotland, From Saturday 18 May to Wednesday 22 May 2013, London Sacred Harp is sponsoring a residential course called “Singing in the Southern US Shape Note Tradition” at Laurieston Hall, near Castle Douglas in southwestern Scotland. This course is amazingly affordable and only about 30 miles from the English border and the M6. Classes will be taught by Helen Brown, Aldo Ceresa and Michael Walker, and will include practical skills in singing and leading, history and etiquette, and discussion sessions. Although most classes will focus on The Sacred Harp, for the first time in the UK there will also be singing schools taught using the Christian Harmony; the Christian Harmony is a 19th-century 7-shape shape note book which, like the Sacred Harp, has an unbroken tradition in the American South. We are expecting one or two US singers from old Christian Harmony singing families to join us and help you get to grips with the additional 3 shapes. Click on the link below to download and print out your booking form; and forward it to Laurieston Hall (SH13). Castle Douglas, DG7 2NB A_-_LH_Event_2013-1

May 24-27 The Healing Power of Vocal Sound The Holy Isle James D'Angelo Fri. 630pm-Mon 12pm. The Holy Isle, Samye Ling Centre, off Arran Island. £100 (full inclusive). Contact: 01770 601100. http://www.holyisland.org reception@holyisle.org James will draw upon the following various categories of soundwork for his workshop: - Toning the chakras with vowels, consonants and seed syllables East (Tantra Yoga) and West; - Ritualising natural sounds for emotional release including humming, laughter, keening, groaning and sighing; - Working with the Taoist healing sounds for the organs of the body; - Mantra and chanting; - Listening to Biosonic tuning forks for the harmonising of the cells and nervous system. As this is a residential, these categories will all be given more depth. Some of the soundwork is accompanied by simple movements to encourage and direct the sound. No experience necessary, only the intent for spiritual transformation. For more information call James D'Angelo on 01452 413220 or visit his website www.soundspirit.co.uk

May 25-June 1 Women Singing is a well established and much loved Laurieston event that is going from strength to strength! Whatever your singing experience, Women Singing welcomes you. This week is for women who love to sing together. Women Singing offers a main morning workshop and a number of shorter options in the afternoons. The workshop themes vary from year to year, but there are always songs to suit every palette. Everything is taught by ear and there are several chances to revisit songs and polish them up throughout the week. Please go to Women Singing to book on this event. http://www.womensinging.org.uk/

May 25 Women Sing Out Kate O'Connell Balfron
10am-430pm £35-£25 sliding scale. Contact: 01343 850266 - Kate http://www.katesvoices.co.uk kateoc@naturalvoice.net natural voice singing day. explore and develop your voice. Beautiful rural setting north of Glasgow. Voice work, creative harmonies, inspirational songs from around the world. Fun.

June 1 Singing Workshop with Ali Burns in Forfar
Angus Folk are delighted to welcome Ali Burns as a guest tutor for an full-day singing workshop on June 1st. This Saturday workshop will run from 10am to 4.30pm. Registration is from 9.30am and the cost of the workshop includes tea, coffee and home baking during the day. Lunch is not included but there are plenty of pubs and coffee shops in Forfar, or you’re welcome to bring a packed lunch if you prefer. More details and directions are available in the attached flyer. Information about the workshop can be found on our website: www.angusfolk.org. Please E.mail info@angusfolk.org to book a place or (preferably) fill out a workshop booking form (http://www.angusfolk.org/bookingform.asp) at any time to register and receive updates by E.mail.
Alison spends much of her time running workshops for singers and working with choirs where she has built her reputation teaching her own compositions. Over the years many choirs and singing groups across Britain have commissioned pieces from her for special occasions and events, and include her work in their repertoire of favourite songs. Exquisite harmonies and rich but simple text are the hallmark of her songs that are guaranteed to move and inspire you. ue: St. Margaret’s Hall, Forfar £20 (£15 concessions and AF members) Contact: info@angusfolk.org or 07842 227202

July 27 Glasgow Sacred Harp Singing Day
Preceded by an evening singing school on Friday 26 July with Holly Ruth Gale. Venues and times for both t.b.c.
Organiser Ewan Paterson e-mail: ewanpaterson1@hotmail.com

July 20-27 Singing on the Wild Side on the Isle of Eigg Candy Verney This summer join us for a magical adventure in The Isle of Eigg, a beautiful island 10 miles of the west coast of Scotland. The island features a large white atlantic beach, a stunning musical quartz beach, a dramatic pitchstone ridge which is the largest of its kind in Europe and has the first completely wind, water and sun powered electricity grid in the world. Our intention is to build together a community that connects us, through the singing, to each other and to the natural vibrant beauty surrounding us. So if you like singing, wilderness, a sense of adventure, meeting other interesting folk and returning home feeling refreshed, invigorated and connected, then join me there! We will sing every morning, building a repertoire of songs that reflects our week together. Sometimes we will sing in special places nearby. The middle of each day will be free time to explore the landscape around. After our home prepared evening meal, and communal clear up, we will create our own entertainment by sharing songs and making space for those who wish to share their talents, be they musical, storytelling or playful games. We will stay in a warm and comfortable converted 19th century barn with magnificent views across to the mainland. Rooms vary from twin to dormitory style. Every evening we will eat together, food prepared for us by our own very talented cook, who will source food locally as far as possible. Prices from: £450, including accommodation and all food. Contact: Candy Verney 01225 938 594 www.candyverney.co.uk candy@candyverney.co.uk

July 27-August 3 Scotland Sing Out in Skipness Dave Stewart Skipness, Kintyre £455 Contact: Dave or Liz Stewart http://www.singout.me.uk info@singout.me.uk A holiday for singers in a fantastic location at Skipness on Kintyre - staying in two adjoining cottages in a secluded bay on the coast. Daily workshops learning local folk songs, plus optional walks in the local area or on Arran, exploring hills, beaches, hidden valleys etc. Evening singing in Skipness Castle, with a seafood feast at the famous Skipness seafood cabin included. Vegetarian (with fish) menu. Two double rooms, two twins and two singles rooms available - first to book gets to choose! Camper vans welcome, as are campers.

July 30-August 2 New Leaders' Training Course Ali Burns 11 am on Tuesday 30th - 3pm on Friday 2nd. Wiston Lodge, Nr Biggar, Midlothian. £150 / £80 conc - full board (subsidised by Hands Up for Trad /Creative Scotland) Contact: 01556 503 646 http://projects.scottishcultureonline.com/scotlandsings/events/song-leaders-training-for-beginners-wiston-lodge-south-lanarkshire/ info@aliburns.co.uk This 4 day New Leaders' Training Course is aimed at aspiring, beginner and new group leaders and will cover lots of ground such as warm ups; easy songs for harmony singing; group management; marketing and business skills; working with different voices; teaching a song by ear clearly; improvising with a group; what to do if .... troubleshooting sessions. The focus will be on teaching and learning by ear rather than from written music. The course will be run by Alison Burns and a team of 3 other teachers - to be confirmed shortly. Participants will receive a free teaching pack full of useful information on running workshops, choirs and groups. Mp3 files files of songs will be available too.

August 2-6 Newtonmore, Scotland Songleaders’ workshop with Frank Kane. This workshop is intended for people leading ensembles singing Georgian folk music or other types of oral tradition music and those interested in the topics presented below. It is an opportunity to consider the most significant issues that we have faced as groups and leaders, the solutions that have we found, and the thorny questions that remain. Many challenges quickly take shape for anyone starting or leading a vocal ensemble, particularly one that has a folk repertoire, and still more if it reflects an oral tradition, and one that is foreign to the leader. There can be concerns about authenticity, or at least trying to do justice to the essence of the music, along with an understandable desire to express oneself. And technical issues: How can we address singers’ difficulties with rhythm, intonation or listening, and help them to improve? What makes the activity enjoyable and worthwhile? What gives it cohesion? What are the group’s goals? Are the approaches and processes that we use today in harmony with these goals, or is there a new synthesis waiting to be found? These are some of the more obvious issues encountered – but by no means an exhaustive list – for people leading groups singing oral tradition music. This workshop is intended not just as a transmission of knowledge and know-how, but also as a round table for pooling experiences and questions from people who are leading groups singing folk music. The facilitator, Frank Kane, has founded and led several Georgian ensembles in the United States and France and has been coaching groups singing Georgian music in Europe and North America for the past 20 years. He has accompanied people starting or taking over the leadership of Georgian groups and as such has received a privileged sharing of their experiences over the years. Frank will offer practical exercises and approaches to address the issues raised by the participants, with the aim of making our group experiences more fulfilling. Our venue is the Strathspey Mountain Hostel (http:// http://www.newtonmore.com/places-to-stay/hostels/strathspey.html/), which has a large dining/meeting room and four bedrooms of different sizes. We will be shopping and cooking meals ourselves, so count on perhaps 40 pounds for food during the workshop and please be willing to help with meal preparation and clean up and a little bit of improvisation as necessary (supermarket within walking distance). Feel free to contact me by E-mail or telephone if you have questions about the workshop. Tuition for workshop: 120 Pounds Sterling
Accommodations at the Strathspey Mountain Hostel (not including board): approximately 90 Pounds Sterling total for 5 nights (departing on Wednesday 7 August in the morning). The workshop will begin on Friday 2 August in the afternoon and will end at 5:30 PM on Tuesday 6 August (followed by festive dinner). Newtonmore can be reached by train (http://www.scotrail.co.uk/) or coach from Glasgow and Edinburgh, journey time approximately 2 ½ hours. kane.frank@gmail.com Tel: +33 1 42 43 27 66 Mobile:+33 6 27 49 05 85

Sep 7-14 Band of Song, Laurieston Hall with Mairi Campbell, Wendy Stewart and Ali Burns
£390 /Conc £350 /Conc+ £320 Wendy Stewart, Ali Burns and Mairi Campbell share a common approach to creativity and music making and delight in nourishing the musician in all of us. Join them for a week of singing, harp and fiddle playing and music making with individual lessons, classes and whole group classes.The week will be suitable for a broad range of abilities from beginner to experienced. Mornings will be taken up with everyone playing and singing together while afternoons will be given over to optional workshops, tasters, discussions, individual lessons and practice time. Wendy will bring harps for everyone to try and as well as teaching tunes will also focus on singing with harp accompaniment. Ali will lead the group in massed harmony singing as well as running some creative classes. Mairi will share fiddle song and step-dance sessions and will also introduce the creative practice of Interplay, an easy to learn creative process that uses movement, storytelling, voice and music. Interplay is great for everybody as it doesn’t require particular skill or even nerve. There will be space for intensive practice and relaxed contemplation, deep harmony and manic dancing and we think the evening music sessions will be mighty! Laurieston Hall is a Victorian mansion set in 135 acres of woodland and rolling hills. It has its own loch and a walled garden which provides produce for the fabulous home cooked vegetarian meals. Sleeping accommodation is mostly in shared rooms. If you value your privacy you can sleep in one of the ready pitched tents which come kitted out with a double mattress and pillows. You’re also welcome to bring your own tent or campervan or stay in a local bed and breakfast. Go to www.bandofsong.org for information. or email wendy@snademill.co.uk
or phone 01387 820 241

Sep 14-21 Singing in Community - training Kate O'Connell Findhorn College, Forres. residential Contact: 01309 690806. www.findhorncollege.org college@findhorncollege.org For anyone who wants to lead singing groups or add song to their work with groups. Topics include natural voice development and song teaching. Co-led with Bill Henderson. In the unique setting of Findhorn eco-village and educational community.

IRELAND

April 21 Around the World in 8 Songs with Rachel Dempsey (at the Five Lamps Festival, Dublin 1). Take a world tour of different cultures by singing songs in group harmony! People all over the world love to sing together. Music and singing together is a great way to break down barriers and bring people of all backgrounds and all ages together. In this day long workshop, we will go on a world tour learning songs from different cultures and traditions. These include songs from the African, Latin America, Maori, Gospel and Native American Tradition. All songs are learned by ear and no singing experience is necessary. This is a great way to have fun and create a sense of community. Group singing generates a sense of well-being that will lift your spirits and send you home smiling! Open to all. 11am-3pm MarinoCollege, Connolly House,North Strand Rd, D1 €20, pay on the door but booking essential, book your place at soundstoriesireland@gmail.com. More info: www.soundstories.ie or www.fivelampsartsfestival.ie
11am-3pm MarinoCollege, Connolly House,North Strand Rd, D1 €20, pay on the door but booking essential, book your place at soundstoriesireland@gmail.com.
http://www.globalharmonies.com/events.html

May 26 Singing for the Soul (Greystones) with Rachel Dempsey A group harmony singing workshop, open to all. Enjoy a half-day of group harmony singing and leave feeling uplifted, inspired and relaxed. This is an informal and joyful workshop which will allow you to connect with, explore and experiment with your voice, through singing a range of songs and chants from around the world. Lots of fun, great creative flow and stress-release. We will include stretches, breathing exercises, tips on vocal production and learning harmony songs by ear. There will be no solo singing (unless you're burning to try something out!) and you don't have to be a 'good' singer to take part. There will, however, be the space for some improvisation for those who want to let loose! We often move to the music and shakers are provided. Expect gospel tunes, African harmonies, ethereal chants, jazzy jives, heart songs, humming, eastern vibes and more. These workshops are about abandoning worries about ‘am I a good singer?’ and simply enjoying and experiencing your voice in harmony with others. 11am-2pm. Presbyterian Church Hall,Trafalgar Road, Greystones. €20 (book and pay in full before workshop) or €35 on door. Contact Rachel Dempsey, on racheldem@gmail.com or 086 3097232 Payment and Booking: €20 (if pre-paying in full five days before workshop) or €35 on door. No bookings without prepayment. Please send cheque payable to Rachel Dempsey to 149 Heathervue, Greystones, Co.Wicklow or contact me about bank transfer. http://www.globalharmonies.com/events.html

June 14 Singing for the Soul with Rachel Dempsey (Chrysalis, Ballymore Eustace) A group harmony singing workshop, open to all. Enjoy a half-day of group harmony singing and leave feeling uplifted, inspired and relaxed. This is an informal and joyful workshop which will allow you to connect with, explore and experiment with your voice, through singing a range of songs and chants from around the world. Lots of fun, great creative flow and stress-release. We will include stretches, breathing exercises, tips on vocal production and learning harmony songs by ear. There will be no solo singing (unless you're burning to try something out!) and you don't have to be a 'good' singer to take part. There will, however, be the space for some improvisation for those who want to let loose! We often move to the music and shakers are provided. Expect gospel tunes, African harmonies, ethereal chants, jazzy jives, heart songs, humming, eastern vibes and more. These workshops are about abandoning worries about ‘am I a good singer?’ and simply enjoying and experiencing your voice in harmony with others. 1030am-530pm. Ardenode Country House Hotel (www.ardenodehotel.com), Ballymore Eustace, Co.Kildare More details: Shortly to be made available via www.chrysalis.ie. http://www.globalharmonies.com/events.html

July 14 : Singing for the Soul with Rachel Dempsey (The Sanctuary, Dublin) Ever wondered why music, and especially vocal music, is used all over the world in ritualistic, healing and sacred contexts? Ever wanted to further explore this power the voice has to move, sooth, uplift, transcend and transform? In this workshop we will create a safe, non-exposing space to explore and experiment with our voices. This day of listening, meditation, movement, chanting, toning and singing will leave you both relaxed and uplifted and you will learn some transformative vocal techniques which can bring positive change in your life. 10am- 4pm. The Sanctuary,Dublin7 €65 (Conc. €45). Contact The Sanctuary, 01 670 5419, www.sanctuary.ie.
http://www.globalharmonies.com/events.html

Weekly Sacred Harp singing in Cork, Ireland: Thursdays corksacredharp@gmail.com www.corksacredharp.com

Fridays weekly, Dublin Ireland Shane McGrath +353 (87) 998 3495 sacredharpdublin@gmail.com

WALES

June 23 SINGPLICITY - Glorious Singing Made Simple: MIDSUMMER Celia Webb Wales all day Nr Abergavenny £30 http://www.singplicity.org
celia.webb@naturalvoice.net / Helen : Singplicity@BTinternet.com Mid-summer Sing in the Dingle - A glorious location, a beautiful decorated marquee... a fabulous singing experience. This is the 3rd year running. Not wheelchair accessible but we can support walking up and down to the Dingle.

July 20-21 Gwehelog Sacred Harp Singing Gwehelog Methodist Chapel, nr Usk, Mon. Saturday 10 am – 3.30 pm . Pot luck lunch. Sunday 10.30 am – 12 noon Moody & Sankey Hymn Singing with The Cwmbran Salvation Army Band. Organisers: Chris Brown & Judy Whiting Tel: 01422 311736 / 07963 513685 e-mail: cbrowo@tesco.net / judyshapes@tesco.net

ENGLAND

There is long and current list of singing workshops in England on the Natural Voice Practitioners website.
http://www.naturalvoice.net/workshops_events
Check it often for updates, future sessions and other items of interest to community singers everywhere.

April 16-30 Introductory sessions for the London Russian Choir 6.30-8.30pm. Room G03 in 26 Bedford Way WC1H 0AP (UCL) near Russell Square/Kings Cross. £6.50 per session. Contact: http://www.polinashepherd.co.uk/contact/ Run by: Polina Shepherd www.polinashepherd.co.uk/choirs
polina_shepherd@yahoo.co.uk A Russian choir is opening with introductory sessions on Tuesdays 16 and 30 April before starting regular weekly sessions on Thursdays in May. OPEN TO ALL NO KNOWLEDGE OF RUSSIAN IS NECESSARY ALL BACKGROUNDS AND SINGING LEVELS ARE INVITED Come and enjoy Russian harmony singing. Experience traditional lyrical and epic songs, ritual calendar singing for pagan holidays, wedding songs and weeping songs and Russian classical music.

April 16 BULGARIAN CHOIR VEDA SLOVENA recruiting new singers 7-9pm. Central London- venue TBC. Tuesday £6.50 Contact details: www.facebook.com/vedaslovena Run by: Eugenia Georgieva
www.jeniuhin.wix.com/vedaslovena eugenia.georgieva@gmail.com Veda Slovena is a mixed-voice choir specialising in traditional Bulgarian sacred and secular vocal music. Although formed in January 2013, we already have gigs lined up at an album launch and at London Sangerstevne Festival in May. The choir is led by native Bulgarian singer and Natural Voice practitioner Eugenia Georgieva, who provides vocal training, choral advice and pronunciation coaching. The choir consists of two groups - Beginners and Advanced. BEGINNERS The group is open to everyone with a passion for stunning Bulgarian harmonies. All voice types welcome. Teaching mostly by ear. Non-audition, no experience or knowledge of language is required - all you need is a lot of enthusiasm! Every Tuesday starting from mid-April (exact date TBC), 19.00-21.00 in a venue near Euston. Subscription fee applies. ADVANCED Eugenia combines teaching by ear in the spirit of Bulgarian singing tradition with using scores and audio files. To join this group please book a basic vocal assessment to determine your singing competence. Every Wednesday, 19.00-21.00 in a venue near Euston. Subscription fee applies. Please email Eugenia at eugenia.georgieva@gmail.com for more details, outlining your voice type and your experience

April 20 The Paul Simon songbook Chris Rowbury
Paul Simon has been writing songs in many different styles for over 55 years, with influences from the Everly Brothers, folk, gospel, jazz, African harmony singing, Latin American rhythms and much more. In this fun and relaxed workshop you will learn songs from his time with Art Garfunkel as well as from his solo career: from African grooves to gospel harmony; from funky rhythms to lush, other-worldly choruses. All songs have been arranged especially for voice only and will be sung in unaccompanied harmony. The workshop is open to anyone — no experience is necessary and all songs will be taught by ear.
1030am-430pm. Cambridge (venue to be confirmed)
Contact: Sue Durham: sue.durham@ntlworld.com
Chris Rowbury http://chrisrowbury.com/dates.php#PAULSIMON sue.durham@ntlworld.com

April 20. Songs from Africa Delia Rosenboom
Uplifting songs from West and south Africa, toe-tapping rhythms and harmonies to make your soul smile! All taught by ear. All welcome. Lots of fun! 11-4pm. St Richards Church, Ashburnham Rd, Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 £26 if booked BY 5TH APRIL, or £30 if booked later. Contact: 01342 825031. http://www.deliarosenboom.co.uk
delia@naturalvoice.net

April 20 Sing into Spring Workshop. Janet Wilson 10.30am to 12 noon. Springfield, Withybrook, Stoke St Michael, Radstock BA3 5JQ £5 each. Contact: 01749 840409. http//www.naturalvoice.net.janet_wilson
janet.wilson@mbzonline.net Come along and sing your heart out to welcome the new season. No need to read music. Easy to learn songs.

April 20 The BIG Sing in Cornwall Yvette Staelens 10am - 4.00pm. st Bartholomew's Chuch Hall, Lostwithiel. PL220JS. £25/20 concession (unwaged/low income/disabled). http://www.yvettestaelens.com
yvette@rootsquartet.com

April 20 Singing on a Saturday Sara Brown Chester
10.30-4pm. £23 / £18 (concession). Contact: 07881463585. sarasings@ymail.com This workshop is open to everyone, indulge in the sheer joy of singing together for a whole dayin the delightful surroundings of Bishop Lloyd's Palace! All voices welocme, songs are taught by ear and no-one is ever asked to sing on their own- the emphasis is on having fun and singing for pleasure.

April 20-21 Song Writing Weekend Workshop Heather Murray Sat. 10.30- 5, Sun. 10 - 3. Cusop Village Hall, Hay-on-Wye £95. Contact: Heather 07811 628247
www.musicandthemuse.com musicandthemuse@hotmail.co.uk Have you ever wanted to write a song or develop your budding ideas? Join us for a fun, relaxed weekend, playing with percussion, harmony and improvisation. Support to play your ideas for a song and make a demo CD. With Fliss (percussionist), Amanda (poet) and Heather (NVP).

April 26-28 Better harmony singing - the small group challenge. Chris Rowbury Take your singing to the next level by working as a small ensemble over a whole weekend. + improve your singing and harmonising skills + learn to get the best out of your voice + get feedback on your singing and harmony skills + relish a challenge and seize the chance to work in a small ensemble + be prepared to look and listen to yourself carefully + step up for a full-on weekend of hard, but rewarding work This weekend course will be strictly limited to a maximum of 16 singers so I can give more attention to individuals. There will be some training on breath, voice production, vocal qualities, etc. but most of the work will be done using harmony songs drawn from a range of traditions across the globe. This is your chance to explore your voice in a safe environment with a supportive bunch of like-minded singers, all of whom want to explore and stretch their harmony singing abilities. Serious work, but in a fun style! To get the most out of the weekend you will need some experience of harmony singing and be prepared to work in detail some fairly complex songs. The Claret Centre at Buckden Towers is a Victorian house set in a fifteen acre estate offering seclusion and tranquillity. A beautiful collection of buildings from diverse historical periods is surrounded by a variety of gardens and natural features including a Tudor knot garden, a lake, woodland walk, pasture and lawns. Buckden itself is a pleasant village which used to be an old coaching stop on the Great North Road in Huntingdonshire. Accommodation is in twin rooms all with shared bathrooms (no en suites). We will have the entire main house to ourselves during the weekend. The weekend includes all meals, tuition and tea/ coffee breaks.
5pm Friday to 2pm Sunday. from £140. The Claret Centre, Buckden Towers, High Street, Buckden, St. Neots PE19 5TA. Contact: Chris: 01394 610486
http://chrisrowbury.com/dates.php#BUCKDEN
chris@chrisrowbury.com

April 26-28 Singing Ourselves: A Weekend Retreat with Frank Kane Friday 7.30-9.30pm, Saturday & Sunday 9.30am Coffee & Arrival/10am-5.30pm. Shambhala Centre, Clapham Common, London. £130
Contact: 27 Belmont Close, SW4 6AY, London, 020 7720 3207 http://www.shambhala.org.uk/program.php#1284
voice@shambhala.org.uk Join us for an exploratory workshop that will allow us to release untapped vocal resources and deepen the connection to our voices, to each other, and to ourselves. Master voice teacher, Frank Kane, will use simple vocal exercises and the celebrated polyphonic songs of Georgia in the Caucasus on this powerful weekend retreat as a laboratory in which to expand the strength and depth of our voices and ourselves.

April 27 A Thousand Ways to Sing Workshop Mary Benefiel We all have a voice that can fly free. Here is your chance to remember how – with vocal body exercises, and with new ways to experience your voice. Recapture your creativity and natural musicality. Bring an enquiring mind and a listening heart. Places limited, booking a must!
12-430. St. Augustine's Church Hall, Pitt St. and Gildencroft, Norwich NR3 1DS £30/£25. Contact: 07913689552. http://www.marybenefiel.com
mbenefiel.dunn@btopenworld.com

April 27 The Healing Power of Vocal Sound James D'Angelo 10am - 5pm The Abbey, Sutton Courtenay, near Abingdon. £45. Contact: 01235 847401 http://www.theabbey.uk.com admin@theabbey.uk.com
James will draw upon the following various categories of soundwork for his workshop: - Toning the chakras with vowels, consonants and seed syllables East (Tantra Yoga) and West; - Ritualising natural sounds for emotional release including humming, laughter, keening, groaning and sighing; - Working with the Taoist healing sounds for the organs of the body; - Mantra and chanting; - Listening to Biosonic tuning forks for the harmonising of the cells and nervous system. Some of the soundwork is accompanied by simple movements to encourage and direct the sound. No experience necessary, only the intent for spiritual transformation. For more information call James D'Angelo on 01452 413220 or visit his website www.soundspirit.co.uk

April 27 Dances of Universal Peace Manchester with Ralph Nimmann 1430-1730. Friends Meeting House, 6 Mount Street, Manchester (city), M2 5NS. £5 - £12 sliding scale (please give as much as you can afford). Contact: Ralph 07909 488272.. http://www.rainbow-cambridge.org.uk/dances/calderdale.htm#manchester rainbowralph@gmail.com A chanting afternoon with movement in a circle, accompanied by drum & guitar. A joyful and easy way to get rhythm into your body and to forget that you think you can't sing. A light-hearted - and deep experience.

April 27-28 World Voice Hebden Bridge
10am - 6pm £77 (by April 15th); £82 thereafter. Conc Couples & Group Bookings (3+): £58/ £65/£70 each (dates as above). Contact: 01422-885249 Michael Deason-Barrow http://www.tonalismusic.co.uk/images/pdfs/27-28_April_World_Voice_YORKS.pdf info@tonalismusic.co.uk Expand the borders of singing and learn to sing in different voice styles & discover your multi-cultural voice. Would you like to discover: i) How your voice can be like an orchestra with a wide range of different tone colours (instead of viewing your voice as having just one way of sounding)? ii) How to sing in the different vocal styles needed for world music? This workshop is for vocal and musical explorers who want to learn to sing in different vocal & choral styles!

April 27 A Thousand Ways to Sing Workshop
12-430. St. Augustine's Church Hall, Pitt St. and Gildencroft, Norwich NR3 1DS. £35/£25. Contact: 07913689552. Mary Benefiel http://www.marybenefiel.com mbenefiel.dunn@btopenworld.com
We all have a voice that can fly free. Here is your chance to remember how – with vocal body exercises, and with new ways to experience your voice. Recapture your creativity and natural musicality. Bring an enquiring mind and a listening heart. Places limited, booking a must!

April 27. Sing Day! Dave Camlin 10am-3pm Kirkgate Centre, Cockermouth £15. Contact: 01900 829966 (Gilli). Dave Camlin www.thekirkgate.com
gilli@thekirkgate.com A day of singing with Dave Camlin, no previous experience necessary. Warm up your voice and sing with others in a friendly one-day workshop of songs from around the world, especially Cumbria. Part of a series of regular one-off singing days at The Kirkgate Centre, but you don't have to be been at any of the previous sessions. As part of the day, we'll also look at some of the songs from the Solfest 2013 'community musical' which this year has a theme of the Ash tree, and includes well-known folk songs like The Ash Grove as well gorgeous Georgian vocal pieces and some of Dave's new compositions.

April 27 Groove is in the Heart with Kirsty Martin
10.30am - 4pm St Melitus Church, Parish Hall, Tollington Park, London N4 3AG (Finsbury Park) £25/ 20. Contact: Maya Waldman singingforeveryone@gmail.com www.singingforeveryone.co.uk/diary/
singingforeveryone@gmail.com A day of a cappella adventure with Kirsty Martin. Original bluesy tunes, wondrous world harmony and smoky soulful arrangements. Kirsty invites you to shake off the shackles and celebrate the close chord in this special one day workshop, focusing on group harmony, rhythmic fun and global beats. All are welcome and no experience necessary - we will be learning by ear, shakin' our booty and singing from the soles of our feet! Just bring an open mind and a passion for singing....

April 27. Sing Your Heart Out - A workshop with Nick and Susie Prater in Suffolk 10.30 am - 4pm, Wangford community centre, Suffolk. £25. Contact: Helen Rolfe 01502 578654 / 07789 053543. Nick Prater http://www.nickprater.co.uk helenrolfe@freeuk.com A one-day harmony workshop with Nick and Susie Prater. Nick is widely known for his inspirational teaching and his sessions are always fun and easy to learn. His talented daughter Susie adds a fabulous extra dynamic.

April 28 Workshops and Events: Swiss Yodeling Workshop and Concert with Satteli and the Holcombe Alphorn Duo. 230-530pm Concert 7.30 to 9.30pm. The VoiceBox, Forman Street, Derby DE1 1JQ Workshop: £18, £12 concessions. Concert: £10, £6 concessions. Workshop+Concert: £25, £15 concessions. Contact: Joan Rogerson: 07532 355 879. Beth de Lange http://www.kaleidoscope-music.org.uk/derby_sings.htm derby_sings@kaleidoscope-music.org.uk
Satteli will lead a workshop where participants can learn some beautiful Swiss songs and also try their hand at yodelling. They will help you to find your yodelling voice so you can try out some yelping or juutzli! This will be followed by a demonstration and talk on Alphorns by The Holcombe Alphorn Duo, who will be performing with Satteli at the evening concert.....not to be missed! Listen on https://soundcloud.com/satteli

April 29 Sing and Swing Can't Sing? Can Sing! Jill Carr 715-930pm. Shrewsbury £5. Contact 01743 271269. http://www.heartnsoulcommunitychoir.com
jill.carr@naturalvoice.net Build confidence in the use of your natural voice at this fun and inspiring singing evening, at Meole Brace Peace Memorial Hall, Upper Road, Meole Village, Shrewsbury. Hot drinks included.

April 29. Giving Voice, Opening the Heart Frank Kane
Open from 7.30pm. Start at 8pm. Shambhala Centre, Clapham Common, London. £5 (£4 concession) including a glass of wine or soft drinkContact: 27 Belmont Close, SW4 6AY, London, 020 7720 3207 Ali Warner http://www.shambhala.org.uk/program.php#1321 voice@shambhala.org.uk The act of singing can open the heart, and create a sense of joy, expansion and connection to ourselves and others. Could this be considered as an essential practice to enrich our lives, in the same way as we might think of spiritual practices like meditation or mindfulness? Voice teacher, Frank Kane, will present a series of voice exercises and simple traditional polyphonic chants from Georgia in the Caucasus, to allow us to explore giving voice individually and collectively as a path of human growth.

April 30-May 31 Holistic Voice Coaching Singing Michaela Bartoskova Central London. £30 per hour. bringyoursong@gmail.com bringyoursong@gmail.com EXPRESS YOURSELF FULLY THROUGH SINGING
Would you like to sing the way you always felt you can? Let your true voice be heard! I am using exercises that everyone can master, with vocal techniques based on Holistic Voice and Projection that will support your singing voice. This direct method is truly for anyone. My keen knowledge of singing has enabled me to develop solutions that answer your needs. I will guide you to: * understand your voice. * build confidence and greater expression. * project your voice. * use breathing techniques successfully. "This is a way for the voice that leads us back to intuition, a way that leads us deep into the source of human creativity. Singing and feeling our song means to open our inner beauty, strength and vulnerable feelings. It is a gift from which we can continue to give selflessly to others." - Ida Kelarova

May 1. Georgian Singing Workshop with Nana Mzhavanadze in Derby 730-930pm. The VoiceBox, Forman Street, Derby DE1 1JQ. £8 full or £6 conc. Contact: Joan Rogerson: 07532 355 879. http://www.kaleidoscope-music.org.uk/derby_sings.htm. derby_sings@kaleidoscope-music.org.uk Eminent ethnomusicologist from the Tbilisi Music Conservatoire Nana will be in the UK from April 17th – 19th May. Nana was born in the mountainous region of Western Georgia into a long line of traditional village harmony song-masters and mistresses. As a child, polyphony was still a way of life, and daily work and ritual life was shared together in song. Nana then went onto the Tbilisi Music Conservatory to study her musical tradition. Blessed with a singing voice of exquisite delicacy, and a gentle and enabling teaching style, Nana has developed a unique singing and teaching repertoire, and true to her tradition songs are shared by developing the ‘musical ear’ and with-out sheet music.

May 2-6. SING AWAY in Swaledale, Yorkshire. Teresa Verney A long weekend of singing with a small group of people and exploring the hidden delights of Keld in Swaledale. We shall be able to develop our vocal confidence and our ability to sing in harmony. This will then lead on to finding deeper ways to connect with the others in the group. We shall walk the hills and no doubt sing to each other and the sheep who graze there. The Bunkhouse, Keld, Swaledale. from £190. Contact: teresaverney@tinyworld.co.uk. http://sing-away.co.uk
teresaverney@tinyworld.co.uk

May 4. The Trill Seekers - Stamford. Gitika Partington 10am-4pm. Ballroom, Stamford Arts Centre. Stamford. £15 ( £13 conc). box office 01780 763203. http://www.stamfordartscentre.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1775&catid=8&Itemid=33 liz@naturalvoice.net “The Trill Seekers” A singing workshop with the amazing Gitika Partington! A day of mouth-watering vocal harmony, all taught by ear with lots of laughter. Whether you are an experienced singer or a bath warbler - all are welcome. Gitika is a much sought after international workshop leader – her songs and arrangements are sung by community choirs throughout the land. A fun day of pop, jazz, Gospel and more! Suitable ages 16+

May 4 Shared Voices Workshop with Chris Rowbury
1030-1pm Bentley near Ipswich £7 conc. Contact: Clive Barker 01473 611171. www.sharedvoices.org.uk
clivebarker1@btinternet.com A morning singing workshop led by Chris Rowbury with an eclectic mix of songs to learn. For all abilities

May 5 Sing the world! - Chris Rowbury Chorus festival at Southbank 11am to 5pm (optional 6pm performance)
Purcell Room, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX. £10 (concs. 50% off - limited availability). http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson/the-sunday-all-day-workshop-73173 chris@chrisrowbury.com Part of the Chorus Festival which opens Southbank Centre's summer-long Festival of Neighbourhood by bringing together thousands of singers across the May Bank Holiday weekend. A day of glorious harmony singing, fun and laughter with Chris Rowbury. Learn traditional songs from around the world, arranged especially for voice only. Lose yourself in thrilling rhythms from Africa, rich dark harmonies from Eastern Europe, the sweet sounds of the Pacific and more. Everything is taught by ear (no need to read music). No previous experience needed — just bring yourself and have a go. There is an opportunity to perform after the workshop. Book through their website: http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk. Small booking fee applies for non-members.

May 5 Can't Sing Want to Sing - Yvette Staelens day course at Monkton Wyld. Sunday 10am-4pm. Monkton Wyld Court nr. Charmouth Bridport Dorset DT6 6DQ. £28 (Includes lunch lovingly prepared). email or phone +44 (0)1297 560342 http://www.monktonwyldcourt.co.uk
info@monktonwyldcourt.org Think you can’t sing? Told so by your family, friends, or a music teacher a long ago? Rubbish! Prove to them and yourself that you can! Join Yvette Staelens, for this great workshop that will nurture your singing voice and your confidence to sing out, with others who feel just like you do! Taught aurally and no solo singing, just a lot of fun with your voice. Bring friends. Organic lunch included.

May 5 Sacred Harp Workshops and Demonstration Singing at Brinkburn Priory 2–330pm. Longframlington, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE65 8AR. Organiser: Cath Tyler Tel: 0191 215 013 e-mail: cath@cathtyler.net

May 10-12 Nick and Susie Prater Cornwall residential singing retreat. We will be combining the two aspects of what we teach together - sharing beautiful and heart-opening songs from all over the world in full harmony, and going deeper into a process we have developed together called The Alchemy Of Song - opening to our creative potential through our voices, creating song together and freeing our innate and unique musicality in group harmony. Beware, this process might leave you writing songs for days after! Nestled within 20 acres of glorious ancient woodland and rolling hills, Treworra Healing Centre a secluded 16th century farm tucked away in the heart of North Cornwall and offers the perfect space to find peace & tranquillity, space to breathe, walk and commune with Mother Earth. Full board accommodation in comfortable cottages and delicious home-cooked vegetarian food. Rates from £185pp - £235 pp. Non-residential possible (1 or 2 days) (£65 - £145). Contact Treworra Healing Centre www.treworrahealingcentre.com 01804 261792
www.nickprater.co.uk

May 10-12 Othona Bradwell FESTIVAL OF SONG Gilo Annual song weekend with Sarah Pennington & Gilo - in oldest church in England. Celtic/Saxon cathedral built 650 by St Cedd on Essex saltmarshes. Incredible acoustic & evocative setting. Saturday open to local singers. The annual Festival of Song is a major highlight of Othona's spring calendar. Everything from mellow and soulful to upbeat and improvisational. No need to read music ... just bring your voice and a willingness to sing out and blend your voice with others. About 40 singers resident for whole weekend, and Saturday is open to local participants for a Big Sing. Best to book early as this is always a popular event. Rooms are shared (single rooms go quickly). We've moved this weekend into May so, if you can stay in a tent, camping is encouraged for this weekend. Fri 4.30pm - Sun 2.30pm. Othona Community at Bradwell-on-Sea. Full weekend £112 (£92 concession) including all meals, accommodation, and workshops. Contact: 01621 776 564 http://www.othona-bradwell.org.uk/event/Festival-of-Song-1 bradwell@othona.org

May 11 Songs in the Key of Summer Yvette Staelens 10am-4pm. West Monkton Village Hall TA2 8NE. £25/20 concession (low income/unwaged/disabled). http://www.yvettestaelens.com yvette@rootsquartet.com
What a great way to celebrate summer! Songs from hot, hot, hot places around the world. Loads of harmony all taught by ear by Yvette Staelens, bring friends and lunch to share. All abilities welcome. Do visit my website www.yvettestaelens.com

May 11 Harmony Singing Workshop with Gitika Partington 10 til 4 Victoria Institute, Caton. LA2 9QT (5miles from Lancaster). Early Bird £20 until 11th April. then £25. anni@naturalvoice.net A day of inspiring vocal harmony led by Gitika Partington - a clear and upbeat facilitator who teaches her own arrangements that have led to her being called 'the queen of pop'. A fun accessible and musically satisfying day is guaranteed.

May 11. The Heart of Singing Vocal Workshop Anahita Hayrabedian 10am- 3pm Subud Hall, 2a Baildon Road, SHIPLEY, BD17 6AE. £20. Contact: 07951776278 ana_hayrabedian@hotmail.com The Heart of Singing Vocal Workshops Presents Helen Yeoman's One Day Singing Workshop

MAY 11 Songs of Tagore and Indian Raga Brighton
1030-5pm, £50, Contact: 01273 623512/ 0777 6081909
Suekali http://www.thesingingheart.com Suekali@naturalvoice.net Unique chance to learn songs of the famous Bengali Poet, Rabindranath Tagore with exceptional teacher Rajeswar from India.Also chance to perform them in the Brighton Fringe Festival on Monday13th at 1pm. Beginners welcome

May 11 The Saturday Singers Jane Read 10-1130am. he Back Room, Bridgnorth Baptist Church WV16 4AB (door on right-hand side of building). £6 on the day/£5 in advance. Contact: Jane Read 01584 891656
jane@songshops.co.uk Monthly singing workshop led by Jane Read. Everyone is welcome - come every time or just when you feel like it! We'll sing rounds and lovely harmony songs and, together, will make a wonderful sound. Everything will be taught by ear, from scratch every time. Afterwards we can go for coffee or you can go round the bustling Bridgnorth market!

May 12 Raga and Tagore song Brighton Fringe event
2pm-5pm At the Coach House - Kemptown, Brighton
£15. Contact: 01273 623512/ 0777 6081909. Suekali http://www.thesingingheart.com Suekali@naturalvoice.net part of the famous Brighton Fringe festival - an afternoon to learn Indian raga and Songs of Tagore with exceptional teachers Rajeswar from India and Suekali from Brighton. All welcome

May 14-20 Voice Leaders' Training Workshop Frankie Armstrong Kinnersley Castle. £700 full board Contact: (029) 2048 0429. http://www.frankiearmstrong.com/index.php/voice-workshop-leader-training. frankiearmstrong45@gmail.com This course offers a unique opportunity to attend an intensive, residential training week on the melodic natural voice. It is designed for people who already run voice workshops or singing groups, or who wish to, or those who want to incorporate voice into their existing work. Places are limited to 12 people. In addition to individual and group time to help people focus on their needs in these areas, we also look at the process of working with groups, creating and setting up improvisations, structuring and pacing workshops, dealing with difficult situations/individuals, and contexts in which this approach can be applied. There is also a session with a visiting tutor on self employment, project development, finance, publicity etc. As well as bodywork being an integral part of the training course, there are daily warm-up sessions, focusing on aspects of body release and energising that relate directly to vocal expression. The food is deliciously cooked vegetarian. Special diets can be accommodated for an extra £2 per day.

May 15 Songways at Iford Manor, Bath Jane Harris
10am to 2pm. IFORD MANOR, BATH BA15 2BA. £20 including entry to the Peto Gardens. Contact: Jane Harris 07894 205255. http://www.songways.co.uk/singing-days/ jane@songways.co.uk Come and sing in the stunning Peto Garden at Iford Manor and in the exceptional acoustics and atmosphere of the intimate Italianate Cloisters, home of Iford Opera. Idyllic setting, relaxed, fun, rewarding and open to all. Singing for the joy of it. All songs and harmonies taught by ear on the day by inspirational choir director, Jane Harris, of Songways.

May 18 Alexander Technique, Voice and Breath Workshop Delia Rosenboom Richmond 2-5pm. St Richards Church, Ashburnham Rd, Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10. £30 Contact: 01342 825031 http://www.deliarosenboom.co.uk delia@naturalvoice.net An opportunity to explore how the way that you use your body effects your ability to sing and breathe optimally. Gentle, practical release work within a small group. All welcome.

May 18 Gregorian Chants Delia Rosenboom Richmond 630-830pm, St Richards Church, Ashburnham Rd, Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10. £12. Contact: 01342 825031. http://www.deliarosenboom.co.uk delia@naturalvoice.net Come and learn, sing and be nourished by Gregorian chants and other sacred melodies & harmonies. This will be an uplifting, candle-lit evening of singing heart-opening songs of a sacred, inwardly nourishing nature. Songs taught by ear. All welcome.

May 18 Awakening Chakra Energies Through Sound James D'Angelo London 10am-5pm Colet House, 151 Talgarth Road. W14 9DA. £35. Contact: 01452 413220
www.soundspirit.co.uk info@soundspirit.co.uk
With James D'Angelo See the listing of categories of soundwork for the workshop on March 9th at the Sula
Lightship. Also visit his website www.soundspirit.co.uk

May 18 Harmony Singing with Gitika Partington in Letchworth Hertfordshire. 10.30pm - 4.30pm. howgills quaker meeting house. 42 southview. letchworth .herts SG6 3JJ. £25 full £15 conc. - www.singinherts.co.uk.
Email: Sing in Herts gitika partington is leading a day of ravishing four part harmony arrangements - all music to be learned by ear. Lovely venue. Bring lunch to share.....just a few places left!

May 18. SUMMER SING with Andrea Small Hoddesdon
10.30-4.30 Riverside Church, Rye Road, EN11 0JB. Self-selected sliding scale £25-£40. Phone Sheila Meacock 01707 260510 or email Gil Bomber gilbomber@gmail.com. Whatever the weather, it's time for some vocal sunshine. Come and celebrate the days of light with summer songs to set your voices soaring. No musical experience necessary.

May 18 Goodshaw Sacred Harp Singing Goodshaw Baptist Church, Chapel Street, Goodshaw, Rossendale, Lancs., BB4 8BS 10.30 am – 3.30 pm. Pot luck lunch.
Afterwards there will be an opportunity to visit Goodshaw Old Chapel for a short singing. Organisers: Chris Brown & Judy Whiting Tel: 01422 311736 / 07963 513685 e-mail: cbrowo@tesco.net / judyshapes@tesco.net

May 22 They Who Sing Pray Twice Gill Greenwood
Sheffield. 730pm-930pm. Whirlow Grange Christian Spirituality Centre, off Whirlow Grange Drive, S11 9RX. No charge. Contact: Gill gillsinginfo@gmail.com gillsinginfo@gmail.com. We learn simple rounds and chants in four-part harmony: sacred songs of joy, gladness, sadness and peace. The silence that follows offers the opportunity to be still, or to pray or meditate.

May 23 Song & Silence in Sheffield Cathedral Gill Greenwood 1-155pm. No charge Contact: gillsinginfo@gmail.com gillsinginfo@gmail.com
Three lunchtimes singing in gentle harmony and sitting in silence. All welcome. No charge.Thursday 25 April, 23 May and 27 June.

May 24-27 Lakeland Songline - Singing and walking through the Lake DIstrict David Burbidge
Join a group of singers hill walking through the Lake District meeting local singers along the way. 3 nights camping with bags/tents carried by van (plus weary walkers.) Concerts, workshops, pub singing, lift shares. Music sent in advance. Friday 4pm to Monday 5pm.
Langdale Valley and beyond! £115. Contact: 15396
http://www.lakelandvoice.co.uk davidburbidge@hotmail.com

May 24-28 THE WHITSUN VOICE CAMP Nickomo Clarke A long weekend camp (Friday night to Tuesday morning, with an option to stay on ) on a beautiful site near the coast of Dorset. There will be singing workshops from Dee Jarlett & Ali Orbaum ), Nick Petts & Nickomo, and Nickomo & Rasullah Clarke. Whitchurch Canonicorum, Dorset. £105 adults £45 children between 5 and 18
Contact: rasullah@btinternet.com
http://www.nickomoandrasullah.com

May 24-27 Forest of Dean Singing Retreat Sheila Tang
Starts Fri evening, finishes after Mon lunch. Lydbrook, Forest of Dean. £135 camping/dorm bed £160
sheilatang68@hotmail.com 0117 9658485
http://www.eastoncommunitychoir.org.uk
sheilatang68@hotmail.com A fabulous little singing holiday over the May Bank Holiday weekend, held this year at Ragman's organic Farm. Lots of harmony singing, jamming, feasting, celebration and community. Indoor workshop and chill out spaces, and hearty meals provided from Fri evening to Monday lunchtime. Camping or dorm beds available in the Bunkhouse. Arrive Friday to set up and for dinner at 7pm - workshops Saturday and Sunday, plus more! Please see http://www.ragmans.co.uk/learn_with_us or contact Sheila Tang for further details

May 25 A whole world of song - a day in harmony Chris Rowbury An exhilarating day of harmony singing for anyone who wants to sing — whether you think you can or not! Taught by Chris in his inimitable style using humour, fun and a (very bendy) rod of iron! Learn a range of songs from around the world, in the original languages, in glorious unaccompanied harmony: African, gospel, Eastern European, New Zealand maori and more. Everything will be taught by ear (no need to read music!). No previous experience needed — just bring yourself and have a go. Whether you've only ever sung in the shower, or you're already in a choir, there will be something here for everyone — all in a fun, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. You'll be amazed at the sound we create together and a recording of the workshop will be made available free afterwards to remind you of the day. 1030am-430pm. Parochial Hall, High Street, Kenilworth CV8 1LZ. £15 in advance (£20 on the door). Contact: Chris: 01394 610486. http://chrisrowbury.com/dates.php#KENILWORTH chris@chrisrowbury.com

May 25 FREE Singing Workshops at Dulverton Folk Festival Yvette Staelens 11am - 12 noon
Dulverton Town Hall FREE Just turn up http://www.dulvertonfolkfestival.net/dulverton
Fab harmony singing workshop with Yvette Staelens at Dulverton Town during the annual folk festival weekend. Everyone welcome. Wonderful songs from the world of song for all to enjoy. Yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!

May 25 Janet Wilson Devotional and Taize singing
4pm to 5.15 pm Springfield, Withybrook, Stoke St Michael, Radstock BA3 5JQ Donation to church funds. Contact: 01749 840409 http//www.naturalvoice.net.janet_wilson
janet.wilson@mbzonline.net Devotional singing including Taize with meditation and prayer

May 26 another FREE Singing Workshop at Dulverton Folk Festival Yvette Staelens Dulverton Town Hall
FREE http://www.dulvertonfolkfestival.net/dulverton
Fab harmony singing workshop with Yvette Staelens at Dulverton Town during the annual folk festival weekend. Everyone welcome. Wonderful songs from the world of song for all to enjoy. Yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!

June 1 Sounds Like Fun! with Ros Thomas 1030am-430pm. Canon Frome Court, nr Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 2TD £28. http://www.soundslikefun.org fromesociety@canonfromecourt.org.uk Ros Thomas, experienced and inspiring singing workshop leader, invites you to a day of fun, relaxed harmony singing for pleasure in a wonderful setting in the Herefordshire countryside.

June 1 Newcastle All Day Singing Sacred Harp
St Bartholomew’s Church Hall, Station Road, Benton, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE12 8AN. 10 am – 4.30 pm. Pot luck lunch. Organiser: Cath Tyler Tel: 0191 215 0138 e-mail: cath@cathtyler.net

June 8. Native American-Indian Chants Workshop Delia Rosenboom An opportunity to experience singing powerful, earthy chants from the Native American-Indian tradition. Songs that ground us and connect us to the four elements and to the world around us. Songs that take on an energy of their own when sung repeatedly! All taught by ear. All welcome. 730-930pm. Forest Row, East Sussex, £12. Contact: 01342 825031 http://www.deliarosenboom.co.uk. delia@naturalvoice.net

June 8 Shared Voices Chris Rowbury Bentley near Ipswich 1030-1pm. £7 concessions Contact: Clive Barker 01473 611171. www.sharedvoices.org.uk
clivebarker1@btinternet.com A morning singing workshop led by Chris Rowbury with an eclectic mix of songs to learn. For all abilities

June 8 The Saturday Singers Jane Read Bridgnorth
10-1130am The Back Room, Bridgnorth Baptist Church WV16 4AB (door on right-hand side of building)
£6 on the door or £5 in advance. Contact: Jane Read 01584 89165 jane@songshops.co.uk Monthly singing workshop led by Jane Read. Everyone is welcome - come every time or just when you feel like it! We'll sing rounds and lovely harmony songs and, together, will make a wonderful sound. Everything will be taught by ear, from scratch, every time. Afterwards we can go for coffee or you can go round the bustling Bridgnorth market!

June 8 Ali Orbaum Berkshire 1030-430. John Rankin Junior School, Henshaw Crescent, Newbury, RG14 6ES. £25/£20 conc. To book places: Tel. 01635 42963 / 01635 523379. http//:www.letssingtheworld.org.uk singingtheworld@gmail.com Popular teacher, choir director, arranger and vocalist; co-director of Bristol’s Gasworks Choir and award-winning group Naked Voices. Come and sing a great selection of songs in full acapella gorgeousness. Pop, jazz, folk, funk… Ali chooses fabulous music and arranges it to delight all harmony lovers! Clear and dynamic teaching, no ability to read music needed for this singing workshop – all songs will be taught by ear. An uplifting and fun day’s singing open to all! Registration from 10.00am. Refreshments provided, bring lunch to share.

June 8 Shapers New England & New Writings Singing
Tilehouse Street Baptist Church, Upper Tilehouse Street, Hitchin, Herts., SG5 2EE. 10.30 am – 4.30 pm. Bring & share lunch. Singing from Northern Harmony, Norumbega Harmony,New Essex Harmony and The Trumpet
Organiser: Steve Fletcher Tel: 01462 641787 / 07976 605692 stevie.fletcher@ntlworld.com

June 9. Sound Healing John Cass We'll see where the day in the Yurt takes us; primarily using our voices,but also singing bowls and drums.There'll be toning, meditation, laughter, chanting ... Places are limited. To reserve a place phone or email John direct. Please bring food to share. 10am-4pm. Kerne Bridge, between Ross-on-Wye & Monmouth. £10. Contact: 01600 891325 http://www.wye-valley-healing.co.uk john.cass@naturalvoice.net

Jun 21-23. Sing the world - songs from many cultures Chris Rowbury A weekend of glorious harmony singing, fun and laughter. No experience needed – just a love of singing! We will learn a bunch of songs from a wide range of traditions and cultures right across the globe. There will be warm-ups, simple songs that bring quick rewards and also more complex songs in several parts that offer worthwhile challenges. All songs have been chosen carefully and arranged especially for voices only. Lose yourself in thrilling rhythmic songs from Africa, rich dark harmonies from Eastern Europe, uplifting African American Gospel and the sweet sounds of the Pacific. Everything will be taught by ear in a fun, friendly and informal way. No previous experience needed – just bring yourself and have a go. 6pm Friday to 2pm Sunday. Farncombe Courses, Broadway (Cotswolds) WR12 7LJ. From £255 residential. Contact: Farncombe Courses: 0333 456 8580. http://www.farncombecourses.co.uk/event/sing-world-songs-cultures/ enquiries@FarncombeCourses.co.uk

June 21-23. The Power Of Yoga and the Power of the Voice James D'Angelo Isle of Man Fri 6pm to Sun 4pm
Brightlife, Ballaheaney, Andreas, Isle of Man. £380 residential outside of IOM (includes £100 towards flight £280 for Manx residents in residence. £180 Non-res.
Contact: 01624 880318 www.brightlife.com brightlife@brightlife.com With Ruth White, internationally acclaimed yoga teacher and James D'Angelo. This residential weekend will be an integration of the practice of physical yoga with various kinds of toning for the chakras.

June 21-23 Lake District choirs weekend David Burbidge Join visiting choirs and local singers in this stunning Lake District village for harmony singing workshops, walks, cave singing, concerts, dance, pub singing, lake steamer, Martindale, Langdale valley and more. 4pm Friday to 5pm Sunday, concert 8pm Saturday. Elterwater, Langdale Valley, The Lake District. £115 (or £98 if you are coming with a choir). http://www.lakelandvoice.co.uk davidburbidge@hotmail.com

June 22 Songways at the American Museum, Bath
Jane Harris 10am to 3.30pm AMERICAN MUSEUM, CLAVERTON MANOR, BATH BA2 7BD. £30 including entry fee to the Museum and Gardens and morning tea/coffee £27 for American Museum Members. Contact Jane Harris 07894 205255 http://www.songways.co.uk/singing-days/jane@songways.co.uk Come and spend a day at the American Museum and its beautiful gardens. We will sing in the Museum’s new performance space – the stunningly converted Stables, and on the magnificent terrace with views of the Limpley Stoke valley. With an all-American theme, we will enjoy wonderful American spirituals, vibrant gospel harmonies and beautiful folk songs.

June 22 Oxford Sacred Harp Singing Seacourt Hall, Botley, Oxford, 0X2 9LS. 10 am – 4.30 pm. Bring and share lunch. Organisers: Sheila & Edwin Macadam Tel: 01865 865773 e-mail: shelwin8@tiscali.co.uk

June 22 Russian Folk Songs from the Steppes Polina Shepherd London 11am-5pm. SOAS, University of London, Russell Square WC1H 0XG: College Buildings
Price: £65 (concs £45). Contact: +44 (0)20 7898 4500
http://www.soas.ac.uk/music/summermusicschool/22jun2013-russian-folk-songs-from-the-steppes.html
musicevents@soas.ac.uk Russian folk songs embrace the whole of the landscape and all of Mother Earth. Lyrical songs call to mind the vastness of Russian topography stretching toward a boundless horizon. In Russian folklore, every snowflake and every blade of grass embodies the spirits of nature – and this connection is felt within each folk song for ritual pagan holidays, exorcism and sibylline song, circle dance, laments, wedding and lyrical songs... Come and experience the Russian landscape through song! Music lovers of all backgrounds and singing levels are invited, no experience necessary. Learning by ear. With Polina Skovoroda-Shepherd. Polina grew up in a home where songs were frequently sung at table after eating borsht and drinking homemade wine. Her grandfather played bayan (button accordion) and her mother, a professional singer would often sing for hours while Polina listened with the hungry ears of a child, learning deeply rooted traditions throughout her childhood years. Now she is a highly experienced workshop leader and performer. Since moving to the UK, she has toured and taught internationally including Iceland, Brazil, Switzerland, Austria, France, Ukraine and many other countries.

June 23 Seasonal Sing on a Sunday at the Sustainability Centre East Meon Janet Ayers 1-4pm £10 adv. £12 on the day. Contact: 02392 811802. http://www.janetayers.org contact@janetayers.org
Celebrate the passing seasons in song! Four Sunday workshops throughout the year at the Sustainability Centre, East Meon, Petersfield GU32 1HR. Advanced booking essential.

June 30. Taize Chants and Meditative Songs Delia Rosenboom An opportunity to learn and sing heart-opening songs of a sacred, inwardly nourishing nature. Songs and chants from the Taize Monastery and from other similar sacred or meditative traditions. Songs taught by ear. All welcome. 730-930pm. 33 Upper Close, Forest Row, E. Sussex RH18 5DS. £12. Contact: 01342 825031. http://www.deliarosenboom.co.uk
delia@naturalvoice.net

July 5-7 Somerset Folksongs for Midsummer -Yvette Staelens residential at Halsway Manor, Crowcombe, TA4 4BD. Fri evening until Sun afternoon (options to stay on Sun eve too) full board from £160 (sharing) http://halswaymanor.org.uk office@halswaymanor.org.uk Spend a midsummer weekend in an ancient Somerset manor house, singing in harmony and learning a joyful selection of folksongs and West Gallery for the season from as little at £160!!. You can also relax and enjoy a presentation on 'Somerset Folksong Collectors' plus an evening concert featuring James Findlay, Yvette Staelens and the Halsway Choir. All abilities of singers are welcome and everything is taught aurally in a supportive and inclusive way. Sing out the songs of summer! Yvette Staelens is a natural voice practitioner who leads four choirs including Halsway Choir, she believes that everyone can sing and especially enjoys nurturing un-confident singers in a choir context. Her workshops are always great fun. James Findlay is winner of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in 2010 and a fabulous singer, musician and dramatic interpreter of traditional song. This dynamic duo ran the 'Midwinter Folksongs from Somerset' weekend at Halsway to rave reviews; 'Excellent - exceeded expectations' 'I've learned many new tips and feel I can now sing better and with more confidence' 'This weekend has given me confidence and sense of musicality within traditional English music and instruments' All workshops, activities, meals and accommodation £200 - single ensuite room; £180 - sharing an ensuite room; £170 - single non-ensuite room; £160 - sharing non- ensuite room. Plus affordable options for young people accompanied by an adult, and for camping and camper vans. Phone for prices. This course is likely to be over-subscribed - so book NOW! Bookings, ticket sales and all enquiries Viv on 01984 618274, office@halswaymanor.org.uk

July 6. Sacred Sufi Songs Delia Rosenboom
A day of heart-opening, beautiful Sufi songs, and earthy, powerful, Native American-Indian chants. A joyful day of infectious song and harmony! All songs taught by ear. All welcome. Please bring a plate of food for a 'pot-luck' lunch.
11am-4pm. St Richards Church, Ashburnham Rd, Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10. £26 if booked BY JUNE 23RD, or £30 if booked later. Contact: 01342 825031
http://www.deliarosenboom.co.uk delia@naturalvoice.net

July 6 Lewes Sacred Harp Singing Day South Malling Parish Church, Church Lane, Lewes, E. Sussex BN7 2JA 10.00 am - 4.30 pm. Organiser: Rachel Jordan Tel: 01273 476837 e-mail: rabid27@btopenworld.com

July 7 Gitika's Harmony Singing Workshop in Macclesfield is back! Gitika Partington 10am - 4pm. Morton Hall Union Road. Macclesfield, SK11 7BN. £20 before 24th Feb, £25 after. Contact: Call Ruth Partington -07976 621069 or singingintherain@mac.com http://gitikapartington.com/singingworkshopsfaq/ A day of lovely harmony singing. Gitika will be covering songs from folk, pop, world music genres, for all singers, from bath warblers, choir aficionados to karaoke kings and queens. Many of the songs will be Gitika's arrangements.

July 19-22 Sun Sea and Song Nickomo Clarke Dorset
friday evening to monday Whitchurch Canonicorum £95
Contact: nickomo@btinternet.com A 3/4 day camp in Dorset for adults who want to have a good sing together and time to relax, walk to the beach, eat a cream tea (funds for that to Water Aid) Organisers: Nick Petts and Nickomo Clarke. Additional teachers: Claire Anstee and Sarah Pennington

July 19-21 Happy camping family festival at Mellow farm Mary Bourne Family camp with singing workshops. Set in the Surrey Hills, this 2 night camp is perfect for those looking for a small camp with loads on offer. Arts and crafts for kids, archery, kayaking, 'camp's got talent', open fires, car free camping. arrivals from 2pm onwards (latest arrival 10am on Saturday). Farnham. Book in advance. No gate arrivals. Contact: Mary Bourne http://www.singingitback.co.uk mary@singingitback.com

July 20-26 The Singing Cyclists ride again David Burbidge Whitehaven, Cumbria to Tynemouth, Northumbria £295 - £50 deposit reserves a place Contact: 015396.21166 www.lakelandvoice.co.uk davidburbidge@hotmail.com Join a group of singers cycling across the north of England from Whitehaven through The LAKE DISTRICT, Pennines and Tyne Valley to Tynemouth singing with singers and community choirs. A van will carry our heavy bags and provide meals. Easy cycling - c.20-30 miles a day - off road as much as possible. Written music and recordings of the parts sent in advance.

July 20-25 ILLUMINA – A Festival of Sacred Song Michael Deason-Barrow Stroud 10-6pm £215 (until May 15th) £225 (until June 15th) £235 (thereafter)
Contact: info@tonalismusic.co.uk / 01666-890460
http://www.tonalismusic.co.uk/images/pdfs/20-25_July_ILLUMINA_Summer_Course.pdf
info@tonalismusic.co.uk Sacred Song – Sacred Space – Sacred Journey Have you ever wanted to: > sing sublime music in soaring sacred spaces? > explore how sacred musics can help you hear divine presence with a different kind of ear? If so, Tonalis invites you to join a company of fellow music explorers to Sing a Glorious Array of Sacred Musics in Soaring Sacred Spaces! We will sing: > New Choral Musics > Ancient Chants and > Sacred Music from All Around the World. Our festival of song will culminate in visits to 3 SACRED SPACES 1) the great church known as the ‘Cathedral in the Forest’ (in the Forest of Dean) 2) the soaring Romanesque Space of Malmesbury Abbey, and 3) the magical neolithic Stone Circle of Avebury. Here we will sing & play all the sublime music we’ve learnt.

July 26-28 Singing for all - a weekend in harmony Chris Rowbury Following on from the success of last year's Ambleside weekend, Chris is back in the Lake District next summer with better accommodation (no bunk beds, all rooms en suite) and loads of new songs. A weekend of glorious harmony singing, fun and laughter. No experience needed – just a love of singing! Ambleside is in the very heart of the Lake District. Brathay Hall, a beautiful Georgian mansion, is set in 360 acres of mature woodland and rolling pasture at the head of Lake Windermere. The peace and tranquillity to be found on the estate, enjoyed by visitors such as Wordsworth, Coleridge and Constable, offers guests a unique sense of space. The weekend includes all meals, tuition and tea/ coffee breaks. The main accommodation is in compact twin rooms located on the second floor of Brathay Hall, with spectacular views of Windermere. Each room has a plasma screen TV, hot drinks facilities, hairdryer, desk, wardrobe, safe and radio alarms. Each room is en-suite. The weekend will draw on songs from a wide range of sources from across the globe. The workshop will consist of warm-ups, simple songs that bring instant rewards and also more complex songs in several parts that offer the rewarding challenges. There will also be opportunities to explore the local area and relax. All songs have been chosen carefully and arranged especially for voices only. Lose yourself in thrilling rhythmic songs from Africa, rich dark harmonies from Eastern Europe, uplifting African American Gospel and the sweet sounds of the Pacific. Everything will be taught by ear (no need to read music!). No previous experience needed – just bring yourself and have a go. Whether you've only ever sung in the shower, or you're already in a choir, there will be something here for everyone – all in a fun, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. You'll be amazed at the sound we create together and a recording of the workshop will be made available free afterwards to remind you of the weekend. 6pm Friday to 2pm Sunday. Brathay Hall, Ambleside, LA22 0HP Cumbria, Lake District
from £160. Contact: Chris: 01394 610486
http://chrisrowbury.com/dates.php#BRATHAY
chris@chrisrowbury.com

July 26-28 Summer Singing Weekend in Shropshire Polly Bolton Weekend event Oak Barn Centre, South Shropshire. £120 for the whole weekend to include all workshops and food. Please contact Polly if you would like to book or for more details on 01584 823609 OR info@oak-barn.co.ukContact us for info about accommodation if camping isn’t your thing. http://www.oak-barn.co.uk info@oak-barn.co.uk The fourteenth annual summer singing weekend and camp will be held at Oak Barn Centre, Clee St Margaret in South Shropshire July 26th-28th. We would be delighted if you could join us. The singing workshop facilitators will be Polly Bolton, Sue Harris, Carol Prior, Mark Thomas and Ros Thomas. Cost this year stays the same at £120 if staying on site (£70 for students or under 16’s) £100 for whole weekend if off site £40 for whole day, including lunch or £18 for a single workshop. Bring a tent or come for the day. Camp fire, great food and wonderful singing!

July 27-30 Make Music in the Space between I and You Michael Deason-Barrow Stroud 10am - 6pm Tonalis Music Centre, £140 (by July 1st) £148 (thereafter) Concess. avail. Contact: info@tonalismusic.co.uk / 01666-890460 http://www.tonalismusic.co.uk/images/pdfs/27-30_July_Make_Music_Summer_Course.pdf
info@tonalismusic.co.uk A summer residential course exploring a new vision of creating community through music. Key Themes include: > Together in Harmony - Give Voice to Community > Multicultural Musicing > Co-creation through Improvisation > Sharing & Co-operation via Musical Circle Games > Play New Community Music Instruments, and much more This course is for everyone with ALL LEVELS of musical experience, as well as for those who lead workshops and singing.

Aug 2-11 Unicorn Natural Voice Camp Nickomo Clarke Near Bradford on Avon Price: see website
www.unicorncamps.com The most amazing Voice Camp! with loads of brilliant teachers, masses of activities for children and teenagers- the best way to spend a chunk of your Summer Holiday!

Aug 2-4 Holistic Voice Michael Deason-Barrow Stroud 10am - 6pm Tonalis Music Centre, Stroud
£120 (booking by June 1st) £128 (by July 1st) Concess avail. info@tonalismusic.co.uk / 01666-890460
http://www.tonalismusic.co.uk/images/pdfs/2-4_August_Holistic_Voice_Stroud.pdf A Course especially for Singing Teachers to go deeper into the Mysteries of Singing. It will explore: > How to sing in and teach Different Vocal Styles > Vocal Improvisation > Voice Movement Techniques > Therapeutic Voicework, and much more . . .

Aug 30-Sep1 SINGFEST- A weekend of song in the Surrey countryside Anna Tabbush 4pm Friday - 5pm Sunday. Mellow Farm Heath Hill, nr Dockenfield, Surrey GU10 4HH Adults £65 (no camping) - £80 (inc camping); children £10-£30 http://www.communityvox.org.uk/singfest.html vox@annatabbush.com Come & spend a couple of days learning new songs, meeting new people, singing beautiful harmonies, & then performing to friends & family in the barn at Mellow Farm. Family festival singing set in fields around a working farm in the Surrey countryside. This year's tutors include Frankie Armstrong, Dessislava Stefanova, Matt Norman, Anna Tabbush and Lauren McCormick.

Sep 6-8 Late Summer Singing Weekend Ellesmere Sara Brown Friday early evening to Sunday after lunch. Residential £170 - Single en-suite (£140 for sharing or without bathroom) Non-residential - £100 including all meals except breakfast Saturday only (including lunch and tea) - £45 or early-bird booking (before end of June) £35. Booking Essential. Contact 01691 623495 http://www.thegrange.uk.com rosie@thegrange.uk.com Over this weekend we’ll have to opportunity to explore songs in acapella close harmony, ie with just our voices. We’ll learn songs from different genres and traditions drawn from around the world and closer to home, songs with toe tapping rhythms and harmonies to thrill the ear and lift the heart - all taught in an easily accessible way. The songs will range from rounds and layering songs to songs in three or more part harmony. No previous experience is needed, all voices are welcome, the weekend is open to everyone whether you sing all the time or just in the bath! All songs will be taught ‘by ear’ and no one will be expected to sing on their own. There’s something magical and uplifting about the shared endeavour of singing together. People are often amazed at how effortlessly they find themselves part of creating beautiful harmonies or singing songs with upbeat rhythms. The emphasis of the weekend will be about having fun singing together in the beautiful, relaxing surroundings of The Grange. Come and have fun with your voice!

Sept 7 Saturday Big Sing Southsea Janet Ayers
1.30-3.30pm £4 Contact: 02392 811802 http://www.janetayers.org portsmouthvoices@yahoo.co.uk Great afternoon of singing. St Swithun's Church hall, Waverley Rd, Southsea PO5 2PL. FREE parking via Napier/Collingwood Rd. OPEN TO ANYONE WHO WANTS TO SING!

Sep 14-15 The UK Sacred Harp Convention 2013 will take place in the World Heritage city of Durham, on the 14/15th of September. Full details will be available soon on the website www.ukshc.org There will be plenty of accommodation available with local singers, and we are negotiating substantial accommodation space for indoor camping/outdoor camping/dormitory rooms/camper vans at nearby Brancepeth Castle. Bring and share “Dinner on the Grounds’ both days e-mail: newcastlesacredharp@gmail.com website: http://www.ukshc2013.info/ convention@ukshc2013.info

Sep 21 Gospels, Spirituals And Sacred Songs Delia Rosenboom A joyous day of singing toe-tapping gospels and spirituals and songs of a sacred nature. Beautiful melodies and harmonies to make your soul smile! All taught by ear. Please bring a plate of food for a 'pot-luck' lunch. All welcome. 11-4pm. St Richards Church, Ashburnham Rd, Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10
Price: £26 if booked BY 7TH SEPTEMBER 2013, or £30 thereafter. Contact: 01342 825031 delia@naturalvoice.net
http://www.deliarosenboom.co.uk

Sep 27-29 Sing ABBA! Chris Rowbury Spend a whole weekend learning some of ABBA's finely crafted pop songs, all specially arranged for voice only. Come and sing your heart out and bathe in the glorious harmonies of Sweden's most famous pop group. Hard to believe, but it's been nearly 40 years since ABBA won the Eurovision song contest with their song 'Waterloo', and yet their songs still excite and captivate us. Despite 'only' being pop songs, ABBA's repertoire is fantastically rich, varied and relatively complex and offers plenty of scope for the close examination that a weekend allows. On this fun and relaxed singing weekend you will learn some of ABBA's best-known songs. All songs have been arranged especially for voice only and will be sung in harmony wihout instruments or backing tracks. Some harmony singing experience is advisable, but all songs will be taught by ear. 6pm Friday to 2pm Sunday. Farncombe Courses, Broadway (Cotswolds) WR12 7LJ. From £255 residential. Contact: Farncombe Courses: 0333 456 8580
http://www.farncombecourses.co.uk/event/sing-abba/
enquiries@FarncombeCourses.co.uk

Oct 4-6. Singing Settle Carlisle 2013 David Burbidge
Learn songs about this fabulous mountain railway & sing them on the train, in the stations and on walks through the wild Pennine hills. We will stay in the Old School House opposite the Hill Inn at Chapel le Dale near Ingleton and also join the folk festival for pub singing sessions, and harmony workshops. The Old School is just one mile from Ribblehead Station on the Settle Carlisle line so can easily be reached by train from all parts of the country (although lift shares can also be arranged.) All the food will be cooked by the highly acclaimed Lucia Marquart. Workshops with David Burbidge. Music, words and recordings of the parts can be sent in advance. The cost for the weekend includes all the workshops, pub sessions, walks, train tickets, music in advance. 4pm Friday 5th October - 5pm 7th October. Old School House, Chapel le Dale, Ribblehead, near Ingleton. £120 including train tickets. Contact: davidburbidge@hotmail.com http://www.lakelandvoice.co.uk davidburbidge@hotmail.com

Oct 12-13. Frome Voice and Song Weekend Nickomo Clarke Saturday tutor- Songs from Zimbabwe, Appalachian songs, Shape Note songs with Brendan Taaffe www.brendantaaffe.com . Now in his 30's, Brendan grew up in Minnesota and is from an Irish immigrant family. He works as a full time musician and has toured with Northern Harmony. Since 2007, he has been creating singing experiences for adults with Turtle Dove www.TurtleDoveHarmony.org)They offer world harmony singing camps and workshops for adults that draw on music from a variety of traditions—including Appalachian, African, Eastern European and Shape Note music. They have held camps in Ireland, Scotland, Bulgaria, and New England. Sunday - Harmonic Temple with Nickomo and Rasullah. St John's First School, Christchurch St East, Frome, Somerset. 1030-430. St John,s First School, Frome. £25 , £20 concs each day. Rasullah@btinternet.com 01749 850474. www.nickomoand rasullah.com
rasullah@btinternet.com

October 12 Sheffield Sacred Harp Singing
Our Lady and St Thomas Church, Meadowhead, Woodseats, Sheffield, S8 7UD. 11 am – 4 pm. Pot luck lunch. Organiser: Carmel Wood Tel: 07851 126589 e-mail: beanbags_n_josticks@hotmail.com

October 12 Shapers’ Sacred Harp Singing Day
Tilehouse Street Baptist Church, Upper Tilehouse Street, Hitchin, Herts. SG5 2EE 10.30 am - 4.30 pm Bring and share lunch. Organiser: Steve Fletcher Tel: 01462 641787 / 07976 605692 e-mail: stevie.fletcher@ntlworld.com

October 19 NW London All Day Singing
St Mary’s Parish Centre, 18 Neasden Lane, London, NW10 2TS 10.30 am – 4 pm. Bring and share dinner on the grounds. Organiser: Michael Walker Tel: 07770 210067 e-mail: mischawa@yahoo.co.uk

November 2 Oxted Sacred Harp Singing Day
Oxted United Reformed Church, 21 Bluehouse Lane, Oxted, Surrey, RH8 0AA 10.30 am - 4.30 pm Bring and share lunch. Singing from The Sacred Harp (1991) and The Sacred Harp (Cooper Book 1992/2000)
Organiser:: Martin Williams Tel: 07721 451406 e-mail: catherwoodsreticule@hotmail.co.uk

November 9 Stapleford Sacred Harp Singing
St Luke’s Church, Moorbridge Lane, Stapleford, Nottingham, NG9 8GU.. 10.30 am – 4 pm Pot luck lunch.
Singing from The Sacred Harp and The Sacred Harp (Cooper Book 1992/2000). Organiser: Helen Brown Tel: 01332 768274 e-mail: helen.bs.brown@gmail.com

November 16 West Yorkshire Sacred Harp Singing
West Lane Methodist Chapel, Haworth, W Yorks., BD22 8EN. 10 am – 4 pm. Pot luck lunch. Organisers: Chris Brown & Judy Whiting Tel: 01422 311736 / 07963 513685 e-mail: cbrowo@tesco.net / judyshapes@tesco.net

Dec 6-8 Folk Carols Festival in Dentdale -David Burbidge Folk choirs concert; easy to learn English & Balkan folk carols workshops; pub singing; Carols Ceilidh & Singing Walk via waterfalls, caves & the open fires of country Inns. Single sessions or whole w/e with single, double or twin rooms & meals. 4pm Friday-4.30pm Sunday. Dent Memorial Hall, Dent Meditation Centre and Dentdale. £12/session, £59/weekend, Concert: £7.50. £115-£140 inc.all meals & accommodation in single/double or twin rooms in cosy Dentdale cottages. Contact: 15396. http://www.lakelandvoice.co.uk davidburbidge@hotmail.com

2014

January 1, 2014 New Year’s Day Sacred Harp Singing
Mapperley Parish Church, Mapperley, Nr Ilkeston, Derbys., DE7 6GR. 11.30 am – 4 pm. Pot luck lunch. Singing from Denson and Cooper Books. Organiser: Helen Brown Tel: 01332 768274 e-mail: helen.bs.brown@gmail.com

January 2-5 2014 Black Sail singing retreat (Thursday to Sunday) - staying in this fabulous YHA hostel high in the Lakeland Mountains which can't be approached by car - only by walking 5 miles over the mountains from Buttermere. Only suitable for those who have had some experience of hillwalking and harmony singing - for whom this will represent a very special weekend with singing on top of some of the most dramatic Lake District mountains which could include Haystacks, Great Gable, High Stile, Red Pike and Pillar. Weekend starts with a workshop in Buttermere village hall at 10am on Thursday. All meals cooked by Lucia - cosy bunk beds with warm duvets, radiators in the bedrooms, wood burning stove etc. Three nights this year (last year was 2) - £140. Shared lifts can be arranged. Music sent in advance - or send in your own to share with the group. We are hoping to arrange a concert at the end of the weekend in Buttermere. Limited to only 16 places - so book early to avoid disappointment!

For Sacred Harp singers, The UK shapenote website is updated regularly with many local and regional singings all over the U.K. www.ukshapenote.org.uk. See also http://ukshc2012.org/ for updates about the 2013 U.K. Sacred Harp Convention.

Mainland Europe

Wed, 8 May 2013 16:51:43 -0400

Mainland Europe offers the following workshops and singing holidays over the next few months.

Please look also in the separate section for singings in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Austria

April 19-21 Linz, Austria Michael Stillwater Song Sanctuary Retreat http://www.innerharmony.com/schedule.htm Contact: Monika Wagner +43(0)650/ 5 788 788 email: m.wagner@impuls-stroemen.at 

Czech Republic

Voicescope in Prague always has a number of workshops planned for this year. Details online at www.hlasohled.cz

April 20 Voicescope friends. The Voice as a lively Instrument of Communication. On April 20th we would like to invite you to a workshop called THE VOICE AS A LIVELY INSTRUMENT OF COMMUNICATON with Simon Schlingplasser (Germany). The workshop will be presented in English.

May 11, Voicescope Friends, The Voice in Folk & Latin American Music. On May 11th the singer Marta Topferova will present a workshop focused on THE VOICE IN FOLK & LATIN AMERICAN MUSIC. More details soon on our web!

Saturday 1 June: Vocal improvisation and vocal looping led by EN.DRU (CR)

Weekend 14.-16. June: Listen to the silence with Laurie Amat (USA)

Workshops with Marta Topferova and En.dru will be in Czech, in case you would need somebody to translate for you you are welcome to bring him with you and he ll pay only half of the regular registration fee. We hope to see you there! www.hlasohled.cz
https://www.facebook.com/groups/hlasohled

June 29 Prague Sacred Harp all-day sing taking place in Prague, Czech Republic. It will be Saturday, June 29 from 9:30 to 3:30. The location is St Giles church (Svaty Jilji). There is an event link on Facebook (public) that can be found by searching "Prague Sacred Harp."

France

June 15-17 Gospel/Pop Vocal Workshops in France With Marlene Sweetko These 3 and 5 day intensive yet very entertaining vocal workshops are offered in a beautiful rural setting near the Pyrenees Mountains, one hour from Toulouse, France. Absolute beginners through to experienced singers are invited to participate in a variety of challenging and fun group activities targeted to quickly improve vocal and breathing technique as well as general musicianship. Enjoy learning about the gospel repertoire and its influence on pop music, as well as discovering how to adapt your voice to the style of the music.
All arrangements of songs and singing activities are tailor-made to the group’s abilities. Individual coaching will also be part of the course. All meals, accommodation and tuition is included: 3 day (4 nights) workshop 400 euros, 5 day workshop 650 euros. For more information contact: mar@singingWorkshopRetreats Or visit our website at: www.singingworkshopretreats.com

July 20-25 France Explore your Voice and Sing - 6 day Voice Intensive in SW France Margaret Pikes Le Hameau de l'Etoile, S.W. France. ice: £425 before 1 May (not including food and accommodation). Contact mpikes2000@yahoo.com http://www.royhartstimme-koeln.com mpikes2000@yahoo.com A wonderful opportunity to explore your voice following the Roy Hart Theatre approach, (mornings) and to develop this exploration through interpreting 2 songs of your own choice with piano accompaniment (afternoons.) The accent will be on freedom of expression and vocal research, but attention will be paid to musical and rhythmic accuracy. We'll also learn some simple 3 and 4 part songs and there will be a presentation for friends at the end of the workshop. Neil Paris (Director of Smith Dancetheatre Company - www.agnesandwalter.co.uk) will lead movement and some voice work. Jan Lee (pianist and dancer) will accompany our songs at the piano. L’Hameau de l’Etoile, situated about 14 miles north of Montpellier in wild and beautiful countryside, is a centre for personal development courses. Use of the large swimming pool is included and the setting is both peaceful and inspiring.

Aug 4-10 France Le Chant des Oyseaux offers a choral workshop for conductors and music teachers or students. Owing to their experience and good listening they create a high standard chamber choir. Location : Abbey of Caunes-Minervois (south of France). Repertoire : PALESTRINA Conductor : Franck Pellé-Rolland http://le.chant.des.oyseaux.monsite-orange.fr/

Sep 15-21 Singing for everyone - a week in harmony Chris Rowbury On this course you won't need any singing or musical experience, all songs will be taught by ear, and no musical jargon will be used. Whether you've only ever sung in the bath, or sing regularly with a choir, Chris will soon have you singing together in glorious harmony. The week's course will draw on songs from a wide range of traditions across the globe. Sessions will consist of vocal warm-ups, simple songs that bring instant rewards and also more complex songs in several parts that offer worthwhile challenges. All songs have been chosen carefully and arranged especially for voices only. Lose yourself in thrilling rhythmic songs from Africa, rich dark harmonies from Eastern Europe, uplifting African American Gospel, the sweet sounds of the Pacific and more. The mood of the week will be fun, relaxed and informal with plenty of humour, creating a safe and comfortable space to explore your voice. Everything will be taught by ear (no need to read music!) and nobody will be asked to sing solo. You'll be amazed at the sound we create together and a recording of the songs you learn will be made available free afterwards to remind you of the week. So come and be part of a supportive group, have fun and a bit of a laugh, find your natural voice, discover new songs from other cultures, feel the joy of creating rich and vibrant harmonies, sing your heart out and make some new friends. Creative Vacances, 8 Route de la Moreau, La Moreau 17770, Bercloux, France. £575 fully residential (flights extra). Contact: Creative Vacamces: 0033 546959338. http://www.creativevacances.com/our-courses/singing-for-everyone-a-week-in-harmony/
enquiries@creativeVacances.com

Paris Shapenote Singing Irregular singings Aaron Kahn +33 (0)661192799 kahnartist@gmail.com
Please contact Aaron if you are visiting Paris and he will try to arrange a singing for you

Georgia

July 12-30 Village Harmony Caucasus Georgia camp (18 days) Led by Kevetan Mindorashvili, Patty Cuyler, Shergil Pirtskhelani, Rehearsal period in Svaneti, Republic of Georgia Tuition: $1800 Read about  the Caucasus Georgia Camp >> 

Aug 23-Sep 3. The Call Of The Singing Village
The Feast of The Virgin Mary Svaneti, Georgia. Join us in 2013 on our yearly trip to Lakushdi, one of the few authentic Georgian Harmony singing villages left in the High Caucasus. Celebrate in song and dance the ancient ritual Harvest Thanksgiving feast of the Virgin Mary. Live as part of the village -and experience mountain scenery , organic food , herbal remedies, gold panning, cheese making village hospitality ,trip to highest village in Europe ,and much much more ! “Joyous hosts! Golden Guests! Come together in the heart of
Laghushdi Village!” All profits returned to the Village... "Union Lidbashi. " ,and used to benefit the village. http://www.braveheartgeorgia.org/

Germany

 

Sacred Harp Singings in Bremen: Thursday weekly Harald Grundner +49 176 5107 1167 harald.grundner@gmail.com www.sacredharpbremen.org

Saturday, 11 May Bremen Sacred Harp Singing Day
Turbinenhaus der Nordwolle, Delmenhorst, Bremen, Germany For more details see: http://www.sacredharpbremen.org/2nd-all-day

Sacred Harp Singings in Berlin: Saturday am weekly Deborah Bowen dbowen@gmx.de
Irene Brockert +49 (030) 4532671 or 0174 785 7460
www.berlinshapenote.de www.facebook.com/#!/groups/116334308431056

Greece

Sept 1-8 Greece Bulgarian Songs and Culture
Traditional songs and voice techniques with Nina Grantcharova. Paros Creative Holidays. Book or enquire Kathryn Penny kathrynp@blueyonder.co.uk http://www.paroscreativeholidays.com

Sept 10-17 Greece Harmony Singing songs from around the world with Angela Spencer Book or enquire Kathryn Penny kathrynp@blueyonder.co.uk http://www.paroscreativeholidays.com

Sept 19-26 Greece Sing Out on Kos Dave Stewart A week of sun and song! Staying in the peaceful village of Mastihari, singing with the local choir and in the amphitheatre in Hippocrates’ Garden; with time to explore the ‘healing island’ and relax. Kos, Greece. £355. Contact: 01943 461971, http://www.singout.me.uk. dave@singout.me.uk

Italy

June 5-9 CAMP VOCAL JAZZ con Kris Adams in Italy  Jazz singing workshop: Learn jazz in a wonderful farmhouse in the heart of Umbria, Italy. This workshop is open to anyone who wants to learn how to sing jazz or how to improve their jazz singing. This course is suitable for those who can already sing with some confidence but with no previous jazz experience. You will: be introduced to the subject with a brief history of jazz; listen analytically to some examples of various singers of the genre and have help identifying the various techniques they're using; learn vocal techniques used in jazz singing; introduction to the voice and how it’s produced; vocal exercises; demonstrations of singing and performing jazz. Focusing on vocal technique, basic theory, ear training, vocal effects, improvisational ideas, singing through chord progressions, communicating with the band, finding the right keys to songs and arranging ideas to perform songs. Students will have an opportunity to practice singing with a live jazz combo for part of the course, learn vocal interpretation and improvisation (scat), develop performance and microphone skills, and learn how to lead the band – all while activating the creative process. Through structured exercises, students apply what they have learned - culminating in a dinner-concert with a live trio piano accompaniment. info@agriturismovolpeuva.it www.agriturismovolpeuva.it

Aug 31-Sep 7 Italy Tony Backhouse Singing in Siena Singabout provides unique workshop tours to extraordinary places. Designed for adventurous people of all ages who love to explore the world through music, culture and the arts in a stimulating and safe arena. ... seeking to promote cultural exchange through exploring musical and cultural collaborations around the world. Contact: http://www.singabout.com.au/contact.html http://www.tonybackhouse.com

September 12-18 Song Sanctuary Retreat:
Recovering Your Inner Song
Click for more information or to register
brochure pdf Some partial scholarship/reductions are possible on program fee; write if requesting one. Our six-day retreats, held in a Franciscan convent overlooking the Basilica di Francesco, provide creative activity and contemplative practice, supported by group programs with time for personal reflection and solitude. All programs include visits to sacred sites and the natural landscape surrounding Assisi. Both Doris and I hope you can join us and look forward to seeing you there; until we meet again, may the song always find its way through. Michael Stillwater, Founder/Artist, Inner Harmony and Song Without Borders. p.s.Sign up on my Facebook page for event updates, new recordings, etc. (click here)

Sept 14-21 Italy RelaxSing's all inclusive Tuscan Holiday Relax with us in our superb venue near the beautiful medieval town of San Gimignano and discover all the beauty that rural Tuscany has to offer. Sing an exciting repertoire of songs under the guidance of our gifted Musical Director and Accompanist and experience the joy of "harmonising relaxation with song". The lovely accommodation is located within a 300 hectare authentically restored Tuscan Estate which has produced wine and olive oil for centuries. The Fattorie di Santo Pietro offers typical Tuscan style en-suite rooms in carefully restored apartments, surrounded by extensive manicured grounds. A wonderful pool with sun deck, a dedicated meeting room for singing, delicious food and wine served in the adjoining restaurant and wonderful scenic views all combine to provide the perfect setting for a most relaxing and memorable stay. During the week enjoy singing a wide range of songs which have been carefully selected to include both classical and modern styles, some with an Italian theme. RelaxSing will provide the music to you in advance so that during the holiday we can work at perfecting our singing technique while continuing to focus on fun. The week will end with a public performance of our repertoire in the town of San Gimignano.

Macedonia

June 26-July 9 Village Harmony Macedonia Camp (14 days) Led by Goran Alachki, Bajsa Arifovska, Mary Cay Brass, Larry Gordon. Rehearse in Struga & Berovo, Macedonia Tuition: $1700 Read about  the Macedonia Singing Camp >> 

Malta

Sep 29-Oct 6. Singing Holiday in Gozo, Malta.
Wendy Sergeant Wendy is teaching for the superb holiday company Authentic Adventures - a week of singing and relaxing in the beautiful mediterranean island of Gozo. An all-inclusive week in a charming family-run hotel. £100 discount for first time guests with Authentic Adventures - please contact Wendy for details. From £1,029. Contact: Authentic Adventures tel 01453 823328. http//www.wendysergeant.vpweb.co.uk sergeant.wendy@gmail.com

Netherlands

Sep 7-16 Holland Sing! Bike & Barge Rachel Hore and Elly Franchimont lead this singing tour of the roads, rivers and resonant spaces of North Holland. Open water, flat rural land, picturesque harbor towns – ‘Northern Tour’ explores the rich tradition in the flat ‘polder-land’, along the North seacoast and in romantic fishing villages. You will cycle across a distinctly rural, former lake and marsh land. Since the 17th Century, this area has been reclaimed from the sea, in ancient times by pumping it dry with windmills. You will cycle through green polder-landscapes with quiet cycle tracks, the long stretch of North Sea beach and the beautiful sand dunes. Flat landscapes, small dreamlike farm villages and picturesque harbor villages along the IJsselmeer, with its ancient history, will dominate this tour. You will live and travel on the ‘Gandalf’ barge, whose friendly crew will be delighted to have you on board. The guided bicycle tours will be between 20-25 kms per day with an option to do longer stretches for those who want to cycle more. Daily singing workshops will be held in churches and other historic buildings, on the barge and hopefully in a windmill along the way.
Rachel Hore is a much sought after teacher of choral singing. She has been performing and teaching throughout Australia and internationally for over 20 years, mentoring hundreds of singers in community choirs. A graduate of the NSW Conservatorium of Music, Rachel began her singing career with the highly acclaimed Australian vocal quartet ‘Arramaieda’, who became an important influence on the now flourishing choral scene in Australia. For more details or to book contact Elly Franchimont. elly@vocalpointevents.com http://www.vocalpointevents.com.au 

Poland

Weekly Sacred Harp singing Warsaw: Monday Gosia Perycz malgorzata.perycz@gmail.com 730–10 pm Justyna Orlikowska justka_orlik@o2.pl
www.facebook.com/#!/groups/SacredHarp86/

Occasional Sacred Harp Singings Poznan: Kama Dembinska kamyk2006@gmail.com

Portugal

March 16-23 SING AWAY in the Algarve, Portugal Teresa Verney A week of singing and exploring your voice. This will be a group of no more than 12 so we will be able to become really good friends through our singing together. The venue is purpose built for groups and we sing in a Roundhouse that has perfect accustics and a wonderful feel about it that has come from countless people doing lovely things in it. The wild flowers will be out so we shall see the Algarve at its best as we enjoy lovely walks both inland and on the coast. from £670. Contact teresaverney@tinyworld.co.uk http://sing-away.co.uk
teresaverney@tinyworld.co.uk

Slovenia

May 23-30 Slovenia Singing week David Burbidge
Zrece, Bled, Bohinj and Ljubljana in Slovenia. £350 plus cheap flights. http://www.lakelandvoice.co.uk. davidburbidge@hotmail.com Join a performance project & cultural exchange in Sedbergh's twin town Zrece with visits to singers in other parts of Slovenia - including Ljubljana, Bled and the Bohinj wild flower festival. Half board accommodation with meals, workshops, concerts, ceilidhs, learning CD & transport in Slovenia. Cheap flights available with Wizzair from Luton to Ljubljana on May 23.

Spain

June 12-16 and September 11-15 Singing Retreat in Southern Spain http://singingholidaysandretreats.com/Spain.php Our Spanish singing retreat offers an idyllic and tranquil escape surrounded by mountains with the Mediterranean Sea in the distance. Between the vocal workshop sessions you can choose to relax by the swimming pool, swing in a hammock admiring the breathtaking views, take one of the nearby hiking paths or just find a quiet spot to read and chill out. You could also explore the local town of Altea - a former fishing village with beautiful old quarter and plaza. Non-participating partners/friends are welcome and can enjoy all aspects of the retreat except the vocal workshops. They would be eligible for a further discount so please contact us at info@singingholidaysandretreats.com for more information. The singing workshops take place everyday between 10am and 1pm and each evening before dinner from 6 to 7.30pm enabling you to enjoy the beautiful and tranquil setting to its fullest. We have exclusive use of a beautiful Spanish country finca in the charming village of Bolulla located 300 meters above sea level and approximately five miles inland. All guest rooms face south and have views of the Mediterranean Sea on the horizon. Prices from £550 NOW £495. All prices include: Four nights accommodation, Breakfast, lunch and dinner for the duration of the retreat, All tuition and workshop fees, Return group transfer to Alicante Airport, Housekeeping. First and foremost our singing holidays are about fun, relaxation and meeting new friends whilst engaging in an uplifting and inspiring activity. They are for people who enjoy singing and singers of all levels who seek a warm, safe and supportive environment where they can explore, develop and most importantly have a wonderful time singing with friendly, like-minded people. In fact, the holidays often benefit more those who are less confident as the transformation and sense of achievement they feel is even greater. The vocal sessions, led by top UK vocal coach Mike King, include relaxation and breathing techniques, group harmony singing and a chance for individuals to work on a song of their choice. The workshops are about learning a new skill or improving an old one and the aim is to encourage one another and enjoy singing together. The repertoire focuses on soul, jazz, gospel and pop classics - the kind of songs that touch the heart and lift your spirit!

Switzerland

Aug 31-Sep 1 Harmonic Temple days in Switzerland with Nickomo Clarke and Rasullah Wettingen, near Zurich Contact: britta.holden@tele2.ch www.nickomoandrasullah.com 2 separate day workshops of healing mantras and affirmations in 4 part harmony composed by Nickomo in beautiful Wettingen. Easy to learn, all welcome.

U.S.A.

Wed, 8 May 2013 15:45:46 -0400

Scroll down for workshops and singing events sorted broadly by geographic area of Mid-West, Eastern Seaboard and West Coast U.S. and Hawaii, then chronologically. .....

Mid-West

Each month, Minneapolis has three separate gatherings of
community singing. Chicago's Grafton Pub has singing at 10 pm on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Groups in Grand Rapids, Milwaulkee and Columbus host monthly sings.

May 11, 9:30-3:00, Mid-Michigan All-Day Sacred Harp Singing, Faith Lutheran Church, 4515 Dobie Rd., Okemos, MI. Contact Bob Borcherding gapbob@yahoo.com

May 25-26, Chicago, IL, Midwest Sacred Harp Singing Convention. Info at http://www.meetup.com/ChicagoSacredHarpSinging/events/102439872/

Eastern Seaboard

April 17 -COMMUNITY SINGS AT THE LEVINE SCHOOL OF MUSIC Dr. Ysaye M. Barnwell Community Sings are conducted by Dr. Ysaye M. Barnwell monthly (except during July and Aug). ALL SESSIONS ARE AT THE NW CAMPUS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED* 7-9 PM Northwest DC Campus. Please visit: SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK www.sweethoneyintherock.org
VOCAL WORKSHOPS www.vocalcommunity.com
BARNWELL'S NOTES MUSIC CATALOG
www.ymbarnwell.com

APRIL 25-28 Ossabaw Island Full MOON Singing Adventure with Elise Witt State heritage preserve off the coast of Savannah GA http://elisewitt.com/web/?page_id=2199 http://www.ossabawisland.org Come sing on the glorious barrier island of Ossabaw in coastal Georgia, a State Heritage Preserve. We will join our voices to sing about and with the environment and our communities. We will also have ample time to explore and to learn about one of our majestic barrier islands. Full details below. Registration limited to 16 participants.$495(Clubhouse) / $665 (Boarding House). Mail check to: EMWorld Records, PO Box 148, Pine Lake GA 30072. emworld@mindspring.com (404) 297-8398
http://www.EliseWitt.com Blood & Thunder, a 1-hour film about Ossabaw Island by Max Ramming http://vimeo.com/31225503 View pictures and get all the info http://www.EliseWitt.com

May 15 COMMUNITY SINGS AT THE LEVINE SCHOOL OF MUSIC Dr. Ysaye M. Barnwell Community Sings are conducted by Dr. Ysaye M. Barnwell monthly (except during July and Aug). 7-9 PM Southeast DC Campus at THEARC**1901 Mississippi Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20020. Please visit: SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK
www.sweethoneyintherock.org
VOCAL WORKSHOPS www.vocalcommunity.com
BARNWELL'S NOTES MUSIC CATALOG
www.ymbarnwell.com

May 17-19, Ashokan Harmony Weekend. Peter and Mary Alice Amidon, and Kim & Reggie Harris
lead a weekend workshop of a harmony singing.
contact: Peter Amidon <amidonpeter@gmail.com> Peter and Mary Alice Amidon amidonpeter@gmail.com http://www.amidonmusic.com 802-257-1006

MAY 18-19 DISPUTANTA KY An Impromptu Glorious Chorus™ community singing workshop w/ Elise Witt. Global, Local & Homemade Songs™™ Concert w/Elise Witt & Community
@ Swinford Farm, 1882 Hammond's Fork Road, Disputanta KY 40456. Contact: Phillip & Kathy Gilbert (606) 256-3015 / (606) 256-0820 * pgilbert@iglou.com
WEBSITE: http://www.EliseWitt.com

May 18-19 Massachusetts Sounds of Stow Invites You to a Weekend of Song with Alice Parker Alice Parker will be in residence at First Parish Church (353 Great Rd., Stow) with the Sounds of Stow Chorus on May 18th and 19th. We feel incredibly privileged to have this opportunity to work directly with America's first choral "Director Laureate," so anointed by Chorus America for her "extraordinary leadership and significant impact on the choral field." On Saturday, Ms. Parker will lead a workshop for all interested singers and directors in the morning, and will be working with singers from Sounds of Stow and several other area choruses who have prepared the material in a rehearsal that will be open for observation of her conducting technique in the afternoon. Sign up by May 10, and get access to both the workshop and rehearsal observation plus lunch for $30. For more information, see the sign-up sheet below or contact Heidrun503@gmail.com . Join us on Sunday, May 19, for a presentation of both original works and choral arrangements by Ms. Parker, who will be leading Sounds of Stow and other area choruses in a concert at 4:00 p.m. The performance also includes a "community sing," in which the audience joins the choruses in song: "there is no one who is not a singer when she leads." Admission: $10.

May 31-June 19 Village Harmony alumni Traveling Camp (20 days) Led by Larry Gordon & Helle Thun. Especially for low-income college student/young adult singers. Rehearse in Marshfield, VT Tuition: $800
Read about  the Village Harmony Alumni Session>>

June 5 - COMMUNITY SINGS AT THE LEVINE SCHOOL OF MUSIC Dr. Ysaye M. Barnwell Community Sings are conducted by Dr. Ysaye M. Barnwell monthly (except during July and Aug). ALL SESSIONS ARE AT THE NW CAMPUS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED* 7-9 PM Northwest DC Campus 2801 UPTON STREET, NW, WASHINGTON, DC THEARC  1901 Mississippi Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20020. The Music Center at Strathmore 5301 Tuckerman Lane North Bethesda, MD 20852. Please visit: SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK
www.sweethoneyintherock.org
VOCAL WORKSHOPS www.vocalcommunity.com
BARNWELL'S NOTES MUSIC CATALOG
www.ymbarnwell.com

June 7-9 People’s Music Network Summer Gathering at Epworth Camp and Retreat Center in High Falls, NY. www.peoplesmusic.org Saluting Songs For Social Change
Contact: Pat Lamanna, patla42@gmail.com,845-452-4013. People's Music Network at Facebook: www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=91409058885
People's Music Network (PMN) will present their annual Summer Gathering 2013 from Friday, June 7 through Sunday, June 9, at the Epworth Camp and Retreat Center in High Falls, New York. Participants will swap songs, share experiences, attend workshops on music for social change and musical skills, and give music performances.
The weekend will begin with a Friday evening concert featuring some of PMN’s best performers. Our artists-in-residence this year are Pat Humphries and Sandy O, who together form Emma’s Revolution (picture attached). They will headline the Friday concert and participate in activities throughout the Gathering. Also performing will be Bev Grant, Bernardo Palombo, Evan Greer and Ted Warmbrand.  The theme of this summer’s Gathering is “Immigration.” We will be exploring issues related to immigration policies, deportation, detention, and the lives of immigrants through our Plenary Session, to be held on Saturday, June 9, as well as various workshops and performances. Epworth Camp, 8 Epworth Lane, High Falls, New York, is located on 160 acres of woods and meadows, situated between the Catskill and Shawangunk Mountains. Epworth Camp offers both dormitories and space for tenting. There is a sliding scale for adults, an early bird discount, discounts for students ages 13-25 and a special low fee for first-time attendees. Financial assistance can be arranged in advance, if needed. The price includes all meals, overnight accommodations and registration. Day rates are also available. You are welcome to register online or by mail. For complete registration information please visit: www.peoplesmusic.org. For additional information on PMN, contact Diane Crowe: diacrowe@yahoo.com, 413-548-9394.

JUNE 7-10 BLACKSBURG & FLOYD VA Elise Witt
An Impromptu Glorious Chorus™ community singing WORKSHOPS Global, Local & Homemade Songs™Contact: Sara Bailey bailey89@vt.edu WEBSITE: http://www.EliseWitt.com

June 14-16, Singing for the Dying a hospice singing workshop. at the Rowe Conference Center in Rowe, MA led by Kathy Leo, Mary Cay Brass, Peter Amidon & Tom Goldschmidt http://rowecenter.org/ Peter and Mary Alice Amidon amidonpeter@gmail.com http://www.amidonmusic.com 802-257-1006

June 20-July 9 Village Harmony New England Teen Traveling Camp I (20 days) Led by Patty Cuyler, Malkhaz Erkvanidze, Avery Book, Elitsa Stoineva. Rehearse at Stump Sprouts Center, Hawley, MA. Tuition: $1275. Read about  the New England Teen Traveling Camp I >>

June 22-July 7 Village Harmony Midwest Teen Traveling Camp - NEW! (14 days). Led by Mollie Stone, Natalie Nowytski, Will Thomas Rowan. Rehearse at Ronora Lodge, MI. Tuition: $1050 Read about  the Midwest Teen Traveling Camp >>

June 24-28 Gospel Choral Music Experience at Ithaca College with Janet Galván and Raymond Wise. Offered by choral conductor and clinician Janet Galván, with renowned Gospel musician Raymond Wise and supporting instructor, Baruch Whitehead, this workshop will help participants learn how to sing, teach, and conduct Gospel music. In addition to being a Gospel performer, composer, and conductor, Dr. Wise wrote his dissertation on Gospel music. He is not only an amazing conductor, but a leading expert on Gospel music. Dr. Wise will join us for the last two days of the workshop, conducting his Gospel music and leading sessions on Gospel music. Participants will learn about performing Gospel music with authenticity, Gospel choral methods, healthy singing in Gospel music, working with instrumentalists in Gospel music, and how to conduct Gospel music. The CME workshop will also teach conductors/teachers to lead more engaging rehearsals and performances through a more score study and relating that knowledge and score study to what happens in rehearsal. Instructors at the Choral Music Experience (CME) present ways to enhance the quality and variety of repertoire, create a truly musical rehearsal environment, and improve the sound of the ensemble. The Choral Music Experience brings an integrated approach to music education, combining the development of performance skills with the acquisition of musical knowledge. The repertoire will be varied, featuring distinctive works for all levels (easy to difficult) from several styles and periods for treble voices, mixed choirs, and young men’s choruses. One special characteristic of this workshop is that participants work with composers on the music of the composer. Participants will have the opportunity to participate in a conducting master class working with a chorus of young people ranging in age from eleven to eighteen (including young men’s voices) and observe Raymond Wise and CME faculty rehearsing the young people. Members of the Young People’s Chorus of New York will join the Ithaca Children’s Choir to be singers for the conductors.

June 27–July 1 Washington, DC. Serenade! Choral Festival Classical Movements, Inc. Join the festival that The Washington Post calls a “True Harmonic Convergence!” and that critics have reviewed, saying, “...the whole bunch sang, danced, clapped and whooped it up in a joyful noise that brought the audience to its feet cheering.” Youth and adult choirs enjoy concerts in prestigious venues all over the Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia area and spread the joy of choral singing along with choirs from around the world. Experience workshops with notable choral conductors, musical exchanges with many national and international festival choirs, and explore the nation's capital, including sites such as the Smithsonian Museums, the national monuments, and the White House. A great new addition to the American choral scene. Visit for More Information:
Yarina Conners, Classical Movements, Inc., 319 Cameron St., Alexandria, VA 22314, USA. Phone: +1 (800) 882-0025 Fax: +1 703-683-6045. Yarina@classicalmovements.com www.ClassicalMovements.com

June 28-July 7 Village Harmony New England Teen residential Camp (9 days) Led by John Harrison, Carl Linich, Heidi Wilson. In residence at Stump Sprouts, Hawley, MA. Tuition: $775
Read about  the New England Teen Residential Camp >>

June 29—July 7 Turtle Dove Summer Singing Week with Kathy Bullock, Ali Burns, and Brendan Taaffe
in Ashfield, Mass. O, Lord what a time it will be. More details and registration: http://turtledoveharmony.org/programs.html#summer_mass http://turtledoveharmony.org

June 30-July 3 Singing with Courage. A Workshop with Jon Arterton. World Fellowship Center Conway, New Hampshire http://www.worldfellowship.org/  Each of us has a beautiful voice inside somewhere, waiting to be released. When we begin to quiet the thoughts of self-doubt and criticism that hold us back and learn to sing joyously from the heart, miracles happen. We make connection with our inner selves and discover how truly amazing we are! The "Singing with Courage" workshop gently guides us to finding our voices as we open our mouths and make sounds in a safe, supportive environment. We sing group songs together; we improvise and experiment; we laugh a lot. Since we all learn from each other, the workshop benefits experienced singers and beginners alike. Those who were told not to sing as children are especially encouraged to attend.  

JULY 6 - 21 Elise Witt NEW ENGLAND TOUR - MA, VT, NH, ME Singing Workshops and Concerts in Boston, Northampton, Brattleboro, Peterborough, Augusta, and more. Details TBA - if you have ideas of good workshop and concerts locale, contact emworld@mindspring.com WEBSITE: http://www.EliseWitt.com

July 11-31 Village Harmony New England Teen Traveling Camp II (21 days) Led by Suzannah Park, Natalie Nowytski, Gideon Crevoshay THIS SESSION ALREADY HAS MORE APPLICATIONS THAN WE HAVE SPACES. WE ARE NOW ONLY TAKING ADDITIONAL APPLICANTS ON A WAITING LIST. Rehearse at Woolman Hill Center, Deerfield, MA. Tuition: $1275
Read about  the New England Teen Traveling Camp II >> 

July 12-14 New Hampshire WomenSing, A weekend singing workshop for women Led by Becky Graber, Founder and Director of the Brattleboro (Vermont) Women’s Chorus. Friday evening, July 12 (registration begins at 5:30) through Sunday afternoon, July 14 (We end after lunch, at 1:30). At the beautiful Hallelujah Farm Retreat in Chesterfield, New Hampshire. $175 for the Singing workshop and 5 meals( or $150 if registered before June 1st). Comfortable, welcoming accommodations are available at Hallelujah Farm, 2 nights for $100! Or, if you prefer (or our 16 beds are full) we will provide a list of local hotels and motels. We will gather to sing beautiful songs arranged for women’s voices in three or four parts. Our wide-ranging repertoire will include spirited and spiritual songs from many places and traditions, both contemporary and traditional, folksongs and composed. About half of the songs will be taught by ear, and half using music. There will be word sheets for those we learn by ear. We will also take time during the day for enjoying the beautiful outdoors, ourselves, and each other….walking, talking……dreaming, relaxing……For more information, schedule details, and to register contact becky@beckygraber.com

July 29 - August 2 U.S. CT Hartt Summerterm 3-credit course: Rich Traditions and New Creations: Dance, Song, Storytelling, and Literature in the Music Classroom Peter and Mary Alice Amidon University of Hartford, West Hartford, CT pdf brochure The foundation of this class is the wealth of songs, dances, singing games, and folktales that spring from the Anglo American/African American oral traditions. We will sing and dance through a rich repertoire of old and new songs, dances and singing games that you can take back to the classroom; discuss how to make dance a successful, dynamic, ongoing experience for you and your students; and learn how to organize an evening of dancing for the school community as well as an all-school sing. The Amidons will share their discoveries of the power of connecting music and literature: telling stories, creating songs from poems, introducing songs with stories, creating a performance from a folktale, song writing, and bringing picture books alive with music. Each participant will write at least one song and tell a folktale. Limited to 24 participants. Amidons' Hartt Summerterm Course Registration Page

Aug 1-21 Village Harmony New England Teen Traveling Camp III (21 days). Led by Larry Gordon, Megan Henderson, Brendan Taaffe Rehearse at Stump Sprouts Center, Hawley, MA Tuition: $1275 Read about  the New England Teen Traveling Camp III >> 

August 5-11, The 5th Annual New York Voices Bowling Green State University Vocal Jazz Camp is ready to hear from you! Enjoy a 6 day music intensive designed by us from our 25 years of teaching and performing, and inspired by you! Visit BGSU.com to learn more about the camp offerings, registration and scholarships. Including the four New York Voices, we are bringing back (as we do every year) the incredible Greg Jasperse who tailor writes the All Camp choral piece, teaches various theory and listening courses and all round has a hand in all kinds of things. Jay Ashby will return to teach his very popular percussion class. And joining us for the first time this year is the amazingly talented, Rosana Eckert, who brings her own spin on group singing, song writing and arranging. Olivebridge, NY

AUG. 6-11 ARDEN NC Alternate ROOTS annual meeting. Workshops, performances, late night cabarets...
Dancers, musicians, vaudevillians, spoken word artists, visual artists, theater artists... meet at the intersection of arts and activism. WEBSITE: http://www.EliseWitt.com

Aug 17-24 Village Harmony New England August Adult camp (7 days) Led by Mary Cay Brass, Malcolm Dalglish, Alan Gasser. In residence in the town of Ashfield, MA Tuition: $675 Read about  the New England August Adult Camp >> 

Sept 13-15 Star Island Harmony a weekend of harmony/choral singing led by Peter & Mary Alice Amidon and Mary Cay Brass Held at the astonishingly beautiful Star Island (off the coast of New Hampshire), and led by Mary Cay Brass and Peter & Mary Alice Amidon, this is  a weekend of mostly a cappella 4-part harmony singing; of arrangements of folk songs, hymns, spirituals, gospel, seasonal songs, shape note songs, and songs written by folks steeped in the oral tradition; for directors and singers in church, hospice and community choruses, and for those who simply love to sing. Mary Cay is the director of several southeastern Vermont/Northern Massachusetts community choruses, co-music director (with Peter Amidon) of the Hallowell Hospice Choir, and one of the four New England Dancing Masters (with the Amidons and Andy Davis). This weekend is shared with Star Hampshire, a contra dance weekend, so there will also be a chance for some dancing.
Star Island Harmony website Register or More Information Peter (and Mary Alice) amidonpeter@gmail.com
http://www.amidonmusic.com

Sep 27-29 Southeast Women’s Rhythm Retreat http://www.drumrise.net/sewomensrhythmretreat/
@ Hawks Above Retreat & Wellness Center, Cloudland, GA. Join us for a weekend of rhythm, relaxation, and friendship! Explore classes presented by world-class teaching artists and enjoy quiet time in nature and the glorious views from atop Lookout Mountain.
TaKeTiNa rhythm meditation w/Colleen Caffrey & Amy Jackson. Djembe w/Robin "Bountourabi" Leftwich & Rachel Juren. Dunun (West African bass drums)w/Robin "Bountourabi" Leftwich & Rachel Juren. Taiko Japanese drumming w/Elaine Fong. Shekere w/Olori Oiyomi "Mama Yeye". African Dance w/Christan Carter-Poret. An Impromptu Glorious Chorus™/Singing w/Elise Witt. Massage and Wellness. Fireside Drum Circle. And more…! EliseWitt.com

SEPT. (dates to be confirmed) BLACKSBURG & FLOYD VA An Impromptu Glorious Chorus™ community singing WORKSHOPS Global, Local & Homemade Songs™™ Contact: Sara Bailey bailey89@vt.edu
WEBSITE: http://www.EliseWitt.com
WATCH: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oj6gdagEiPM
LISTEN & PHOTOS: http://www.SonicBids.com/EliseWitt

Monthly Plainfield Shape Note sings. They are held the 2nd Sunday of the month at the Community Center above the Plainfield Coop in Plainfield. Sept & Oct, 5-7pm, Nov. onward to winter, 3-5pm. For more info: 802 595 9951 or nscottieharrison@gmail.com

Every month on the 2nd Sunday ---The Joe Beasley Sacred Harp Singing 2:00 PM in St. Paul's Church Hall
199 Carroll Street (near the corner of Clinton) in Brooklyn, NY. Convenient walk from subway through lovely neighborhood. Fabulous acoustics. Snacks and iced drinks, hot water for instant coffee, decaf, and every possible tea. By subway: F Train to "Carroll St" (fourth stop in Brooklyn from Manhattan). For further details, or to get on our mailing lists, e-mail BJPub@Prodigy.net or call 718-793-2848. 

West Coast, Southwest and Hawaii

April 7, 2013. 2-4pm. Oakland, California. Kitka. Physical Voice Training Series with Caitlin Tabancay Austin. $30/session; $80/series. To arrange a required pre-registration consultation with Caitlin, write kitka@kitka.org Caitlin Austin offers a group training series focusing on voice-body connection. Inspired by Caitlin's recent artistic internship at Double Edge Theatre, the series will emphasize exploring and stretching participants' unique vocal abilities while developing deeper awareness of the ensemble. Other topics of focus will include: fundamentals of vocal production, language, vocal placement and timbre, resonance, and close listening. The training will use material drawn from Kitka's repertoire and methods from Kitka's rehearsal processes. Participants can expect some physical exertion, though the type and level of rigor depends entirely on individual preference. The series is open to all artists with some singing experience. The content and format of each training session will vary, and registration for the full series is recommended. Caitlin Austin joined Kitka in 2008. A Berkeley native, she attended many Kitka concerts as a kid and trained in the San Francisco Girls Chorus. She holds a BA in Music History from UCLA, where she took Bulgarian folk singing lessons from Kitka's friend and mentor Tzvetanka Varimezova. Caitlin completed an artistic internship at Double Edge Theatre in Ashfield, Massachusetts in 2012. She currently performs with Gregorian chant ensemble Euouae (of Lacuna Arts), the Austin-Tabancay Family Band, and her new vocal ensemble More Than One.

June 3-4 Workshop with Dr Sandra Snow at the University of New Mexico. This summer, in keeping with our nearly 20-year tradition, we will host another 2.5-day workshop led by one of the country's finest choral musicians. This summer's workshop will be given by Dr. Sandra Snow from Michigan State University. Sandra is one of the leading lights in American choral music today. Here is a link to her bio: http://music.msu.edu/faculty/profile/sandra The course will run all day Monday and Tuesday, June 3 & 4, and the morning only on Wednesday, June 5. Topics to be covered include: * We Sing Ourselves: Relationship Making and Choral Singing * Gesture and Sound: “What she really means is…” * Score Analysis Boot Camp * Vocal Color and Choral Tone: Philosophical Choices Matter * Listening Spheres * as well as reading sessions and conducting masterclasses. You can register in advance online and there will also be registration on site. All classes, and on-site registration, will be in room B-120 in the Center for the Arts (also known as Popejoy Hall) on the UNM campus. For more information please click on this link: http://music.unm.edu/department_areas/music_ed/workshops/index.htm

Aug 31-Sep7 Village Harmony Oregon Cascades Adult Camp (7 days) Led by Larry Gordon, Patty Cuyler, Nadia Tarnawsky. In residence at St. Benedict's Lodge, McKenzie, Oregon Tuition: $675 Read about  Oregon Cascades Adult Camp >>

Canada

Wed, 8 May 2013 12:48:00 -0400

Sing from coast to coast and in-between.

British Columbia

Sing Your Heart Out Monthly Vocal/Singing Workshops in Vancouver with Lynn McGown. Whether you are a shy beginner or an experienced performer, you will benefit by participating in this energetic learning environment. You may also decide to enroll in some private singing lessons. www.lynnmcgown.com

The Willow Street Singers is a friendly laidback community choir course for people who love to explore all forms of choral music. We meet at the Douglas Park Community Centre (Willow Street and W. 22nd Ave) on Tuesday nights from 7 –9 pm. Under the direction of professional conductor, Leah Hokanson, we’ll be singing an eclectic mix of classical, modern, folk, jazz, a cappella, and world music in beautiful 4-part harmony! While we are more of a recreational than performance-oriented group, there will be an informal audition at the first class for new members to determine vocal range and ability to sing on pitch. Improve your tone and breath control in a supportive, no-stress environment. This is a great way to brush up on choral singing technique for someone who already sings in a church choir or other community chorus. For information on registration and course fees, visit the Douglas Park Community Centre website. http://vancouver.ca/parks/cc/douglas/index.htm Email: willowstsingers@yahoo.ca

May 17-19 CHORFEST 2013...3 Days of Workshops, Clinics, and a Concert with 3 of Canada's top Clinicians for Children, Youth, and Adult in Nanaimo This jam-packed Musical weekend is a showcase spear-headed by BCCF (British Columbia ChoralFederation). BCCF partner with a choir selected from a different city in the Province of BC, Canada each year to produce this event. 2013's partner is "Nanaimo Sings!" a coalition of 16 choirs (including Children, Youth and Adults) with a membership of about 400 individuals from which a group will be selected to act as a "core choir" to learn the repertoire in advance. This year is a "Canadian" theme featuring a melange of Canadian composers from across Canada, directed by three of Canada's premier clinicians, all with International experience. http://www.nanaimosings.com/chorfest/clinicians.html The core Nanaimo Sings! group will support the attendees who will have the music sent to them when they register. They are expected to have practiced the repetoire prior to the event. There is a Childrens stream, Youth stream and Adult Steam, each with their own repetoire except 2 pieces that will be the culmination of the event with a finale of a mass. choir with all the participants.

Maritimes

Jul 3-10, Newfoundland Festival 500 Choral Festival
Download our 2013 Brochure HERE
Festival 500 Sharing the Voices is a celebrated international biennial festival of choral music, which takes place in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador over the course of one full week. Unlike many choral festivals. Festival 500 offers a come solo option. Not in a choir? Not to worry… Come Solo!
Festival 500 welcomes individuals to come and share in this incredible choral experience. Individuals who are not performing with a registered choir are invited to attend workshops led by choral experts, hear dynamic choirs from around the world each evening, share in the spirit and excitement of the Opening Ceremonies, sing as part of the Come Solo Festival Choir under the direction of Sandra Snow (United States) and sing in the Festival 500 Massed Adult Choir at the Grand Finale concert under the direction of KPMG LLP Guest Artist, Bob Chilcott (United Kingdom). Capacity is limited for this option, so be sure to register early.

Aug 2-4 Canada PEI Teresa Doyle’s Rock Barra Singing Retreat Be sure to visit my website www.teresadoyle.com for my gig listings and news of concerts and workshops at our beach retreat, Rock Barra Artist Retreat. My annual singing camp will be August 2-4 this year. Perhaps we'll see you there.

Ontario

Aug 11-18 Canada Ontario Lake Field Music camp (formerly CAMMAC Ontario Music Centre) is celebrating its 36th year with a new one-week program for adult amateur vocalists and instrumentalists from August 11 to 18, 2013. Please visit us at www.lakefieldmusic.ca Build your own program from more than 40 ensembles and workshops in classical, jazz, world and popular music. Concerts each evening provide many opportunities to perform or to relax and be entertained.
http://www.lakefieldmusic.ca/index.php/program/daily-schedule. Nineteen coaches specializing in vocals, strings, woodwinds, brass, piano, guitar, bass and percussion will ensure you have a fulfilling experience in a supportive and friendly environment. http://www.lakefieldmusic.ca/index.php/faculty. For more details about music camp and the concert, contact info@lakefieldmusic.ca or 647-692-3463. Andrew Wolf Lake Field Music Inc. www.lakefieldmusic.ca. No auditions required, just play, sing, enjoy and be inspired.Your Toronto Region Committee http://cammac.ca/en/activites-regionales/toronto

ALL TOGETHER NOW Singing Workshops in Guelph, Kitchener and Hamilton http://www.all-together-now.ca/workshoplist.html REGISTER: http://www.all-together-now.ca/register.html

Click here to view our full workshop list (past & present).
Registration: For registration info, click here.
Workshop leaders: To read about the instructors, click here.
Location: Workshops are held at 238 Kathleen Street in Guelph unless otherwise indicated.
Mailing list: To receive up-to-date announcements of new workshops, sign up here.
http://www.all-together-now.ca/workshoplist.html

MORE WORKSHOPS: www.all-together-now.ca/workshoplist TO REGISTER: www.all-together-now.ca/register

Tuesdays, 7-9 pm. Magnolia Café Open Mic.
A new weekly event at one of our favourite Guelph venues!

1-3 pm Uke Song Circle! $6
Kim Logue and Long & McQuade in Guelph are hosting this monthly event. Last Saturday of each month.

Workshops

MONDAY NIGHT WOMEN'S CHOIR (Guelph)
Come sing your heart out with Jane & Katherine.
Mondays, 7-9 pm. Four weeks, starts Apr 29. $95
Full details | Register

STEPHEN FEARING ON SONGWRITING & PERFORMANCE
An exclusive evening with a Juno-winning Canadian folk icon!
Tuesday, April 30. 7-9:30 pm. $50
Full details | Register

SING BEATLES HARMONY (IN DEPTH) (Guelph)
Dig in & deconstruct some classic Beatles with Sam Turton.
Sunday, May 5. 1-4 pm. $45
Full details | Register

SOUL SINGING (Guelph) with Joni Nehrita.
Add some soul to your sound—Joni will show you the way.
Saturday, May 11. 1-4 pm. $45
Full details | Register

OVERTONE SINGING (Guelph) with Dennis Gaumond.
An intro to the basic method of overtone singing.
Saturday, June 1. 1-4 pm. $45
Full details | Register

ALL WORKSHOPS: www.all-together-now.ca

Singalongs with Sam & Jane

Thursday, April 25. 7:30-9:30 pm.
Thursday, May 30. 7:30-9:30 pm.
Artword Artbar, 15 Colbourne St., Hamilton
PWYC (pay what you can) -- $8-10 suggested

Friday, April 26. 8-10 pm.
Friday, May 31. 8-10 pm.
Mahtay Café, 241 St. Paul Street, St. Catharines
PWYC (pay what you can) -- $8-10 suggested

Friday, May 3. 8-10 pm.
Magnolia Café, 88 Yarmouth Street, Guelph
Reservations recommended; not required: 519.766.4663
Cover: $10

Southern Ontario Shapenote Singings

May 12 (always the second Sunday), Grafton, 7-9 p.m., Grafton Community Centre, 135 Old Danforth Rd.
Info at http://sheltervalleyshapenote.wordpress.com

May 15 Toronto (always the third Wednesday), Toronto, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Music Room, Bloor Street United Church, 300 Bloor W. (between Huron and Spadina). Contact Pleasance Crawford 416-922-7997 pleasancecrawford@rogers.com

Guelph singings (almost always the third Friday), Guelph, 7:00 p.m., St. James Anglican Church, 86 Glasgow St. N. (corner of Paisley). Contact Sue Woodward bill.sue.woodward@sympatico.ca

Orangeville (generally the 1st Sat. and 3rd Sun.), 2-4 p.m., home of Steve and Nicoletta Rogers, 50 Second St. To confirm, contact Nicoletta Rogers s_nicoletta@rogers.com

May 21 (one Tues. per month), Ottawa, 8:00-9:30 p.m. For location and contacts, go to http://ottawashapenote.org/home.html

Aug. 24, 9:30-3:30, Tenth Annual Central Ontario All-Day Singing, Detweiler Meetinghouse, 3445 Roseville Rd., North Dumfries, ON. Contact s.nicoletta@rogers.com

Aug. 25, 1-3:30, Cooper Book Singing led by Karen Willard, Trinity Anglican Church, 12 Blair Rd., Cambridge, ON. Contact s.nicoletta@rogers.com
______________

Toronto

May 4, Bach’s St. John Passion – Patricia Wright, conductor
Conductor Patricia Wright will take us through choruses and chorales from Bach’s dramatic St. John Passion, a work she has conducted many times. Patricia Wright is Director of Music and Organist of Metropolitan United Church, a position she has held since 1986. She also serves as an Adjunct Professor of Organ at the Faculty of Music, University of Toronto.

May 9-12 Sing! The Vocal Arts Festival Join the vocal revolution at SING! Canada's premier a cappella festival at Harbourfront Centre. From May 9 through 12 hear the best in jazz, pop, classical, barbershop, oldies, beatboxing and more, with international stars The Real Group, The Swingle Singers, and Frank Busseri of The Four Lads. Don't miss the weekend singing workshops and lots of free concerts. Visit SingToronto.com for a full listing of our nearly 100 events.
In addition to concerts all weekend, there are singing workshops Saturday and Sunday and an opportunity for a mass sing On Sunday afternoon.

May 12 SING! Sing-Along, Sunday, 6:00pm.
The SING! Sing-Along offers a unique opportunity for amateur and professional singers alike to collaborate in an inspirational environment. Join Frank Busseri of the Four Lads and festival Artistic Director Aaron Jensen, in the singing the famous Four Lads classic, 'Moments to Remember' and the lively festival anthem, 'SING!' www.singtoronto.com

May 15 Toronto Shapenote Singing (always the third Wednesday), Toronto, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Music Room, Bloor Street United Church, 300 Bloor W. (between Huron and Spadina). Contact Pleasance Crawford 416-922-7997 pleasancecrawford@rogers.com

May 15-June 19. 6 Week GEORGIAN SINGING Workshop with Shalva Makharashvili and Andrea Kuzmich. Wednesdays 7-9pm. Location close to Dufferin and Bloor, Toronto, $150. The venerable country of Georgia, with its lands inhabited since Paleolithic times, is located in the mountainous region of the Caucasus, the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Its ancient singing tradition, known for its distinctive and haunting harmonies, was recognized by UNESCO as an intangible masterpiece of humanity in 2001. The 3-part form defies Western conventions and comes in a plethora of musical dialects, reflecting the diverse geographical and cultural makeup of the land. Join Shalva and Andrea in this workshop to explore Georgian polyphony in its wonder and diversity. Come and join the thousands of voices that have been singing and contributing to this millennia-old folk tradition. Previous musical training is not necessary but the willingness to learn and have fun is.
We'll be studying a host of different songs in a variety of regional styles. At the end of the six weeks we'll have a little performance for friends and family... and a little toast - to keep it in the Georgian tradition... For more information visit https://www.facebook.com/events/441749942586377/. To register email singinkuz@gmail.com.

July 15-August 2. MusiCamp: Toronto Summer All Day Music Camp for Kids (8-12) years http://MusiCampTO.wordpress.com/ MusiCamp is an all-day (9am-4pm) summer music day camp for kids (8-12 yrs) located in a newly renovated home studio on a quiet cul-de-sac close to Dufferin Mall (Bloor and Dufferin) in Toronto. Love of music is expected but formal training is not expected. No instrument is required but the willingness to explore the voice and have fun is. Our intuitive approach to exploring sound, music, composition, the voice, and the weekly themes also functions as a great supplement to conventional music lessons. The class sizes are small and we we'll also be taking advantage of Pizza-making Wednesdays and other park possibilities at Dufferin Grove.DATES, THEMES & FEES:
July 15-19 The Blues: From Shouts to 12 Bars 9am-4pm $225
July 22-26 West African Drumming 9am-4pm $275 (co-hosted by Anna Melniloff and her orchestra of drums!)
July 29-Aug 2 Composition and Song 9am-4pm $225 For more info visit http://musicampto.wordpress.com/ or email musicampTO@gmail.com.

CAMMAC readings. Once a month, CAMMAC hosts a reading for singers and instrumentalists to read through a mass, cantata or opera (for choir and orchestra) under the direction of a professional conductor. Occasionally readings feature pieces for a capella choir (singers only) or symphonies or other orchestral works (instrumentalists only). The readings are structured more like an initial rehearsal than as a performance. The event is open to everyone and no preparation is required. You are welcome to come and listen to the reading, but it is much more fun singing or playing!
Readings location: Elliott Hall at Christ Church Deer Park 1570 Yonge Street, Toronto. (2 blocks north of St. Clair Ave. at Heath St.). All readings begin at 2:00pm sharp, and end at 4:30pm. Please arrive 15 minutes early to set up so that the reading can begin on time! For more information please visit www.cammac.ca. All Readings this season are for chorus and orchestra.

May 26, 2013 Conductor Hilary Apfelstadt, Beethoven: Mass in C

Canada Sings! / Chantons Canada! Toronto-Riverdale
Neighbourhood Singalongs 2nd Tuesday of each month - various locations. All Ages Welcome. FREE (donations welcome). 416-778-0796. info@canadasings.ca www.canadasings.ca

Next Singalongs:

May 14. 7-8 pm. TORONTO - Riverdale
Neighbourhood Unitarian Universalist Church

Tuesday May 14, CANADA SINGS! / CHANTONS CANADA!
Toronto – Riverdale PRESENTS The joyful music of Cuba and Brazil with our Special Guest Artist / Songleader RODRIGO CHAVEZ of Cassava Latin Music, 7–8pm. Neighbourhood Unitarian Universalist Church. 79 Hiawatha Road, (south of Gerrard Street, west of Coxwell Avenue). COME! bring a friend, or your whole family. ALL AGES WELCOME FREE (donations welcome). www.canadasings.ca info@canadasings.ca 416-778-0796

June 11 7-8 pm. TORONTO - Riverdale
Neighbourhood Unitarian Universalist Church

August 5-11 Canada. WorldSongs Vocal Camp Midland Ontario, with Kathy Bullock, Alan Gasser and Njacko Backo. If your idea of bliss is spending 8-10 hours a day singing music from around the world, you may be interested in attending WorldSongs Vocal Camp this summer, from August 5th-11th, at Sugar Ridge Retreat in Midland, Ontario. Our three amazing song leaders this year will be Dr. Kathy Bullock, Njacko Backo, and founder and proprietor Alan Gasser. Njacko is a singer, storyteller, kalimba player and drummer originally from Cameroon. Kathy, who teaches from the African American tradition, is a vibrant and passionate song leader who exudes incredible energy and joie de vivre. Learning Gospel songs from her is a wonderful experience. Alan inspires enthusiasm and delight, whether he be leading a Georgian lullabye, a classical piece, or a Woodie Guthrie song. This camp would appeal to adults and youth who love to sing a lot in the day!To register for the camp please send a message to: worldsongs4@gmail.com More info can be found on our website: www.worldsongs.ca

Corktown Ukulele Jam Dominion on Queen, 500 Queen St E (at Sumach), Toronto. Every Wednesday 8pm to 11pm. Cover: 3 Loonies - Free with ukulele. Website: http://torontoukes.com/ Format: Workshop: 8pm sharp to 8:45 | Open-mic and sing/play-along begins at 9pm. If you're up for it, perform your 1-3 song set (depending on time) and/or lead us in a song. - all ukes welcome: soprano, concert, tenor, baritone. - other instruments OK, as long as it's a uke :) - not intended to be a beginner's introduction to ukulele.

Music for Heart and Soul: The Toronto General Hospital invites musical performers to participate in its Concert series, Music for Heart and Soul. Performances are on Thursday and Sunday afternoons in the DeGasperis Conservatory, cardiac wing. The series which has been presented for five years welcomes new performers to share their music with patients, families, staff and public. In addition to performers, volunteers are welcomed to join to assist with concerts as hosts and other capacities. Please call, 416-340-4115, pirkko.shalden@uhn.on.ca or noramr@sympatico.ca for further information about performance or volunteer opportunities.

Caledonian Open Sing. Wednesday singing sessions at The Caledonian, a pub at 856 College St., Toronto. http://www.thecaledonian.ca/ We have an open sing starting 730ish every 2nd and 4th Wednesday. We sing mostly British/Irish traditional songs but there's no rule about that it's just the focus of the group. Anyone is welcome to join in and we do a lot of chorus songs. griff@gbowles.com

Eastern Ontario

For monthly Sacred Harp singings in Ottawa go to http://ottawashapenote.org/home.html

"Shout Sister!" is a women's choir with chapters in Kingston, Picton, Brockville, Belleville, Ottawa West, Ottawa Centre, Northumberland and Durham, Ontario.
The choir was founded by multi-award winning singer songwriter Georgette Fry. New terms begin in February. Check the website for information about how and where to join http://shoutsister.georgettefry.ca/

A Call to Action for People Who Love Folk Music in Ottawa.
Maura Volante has a blog post to bring to your notice.
Here is the link: http://mauravolante.wordpress.com

Quebec

Australasia

Wed, 8 May 2013 09:50:30 -0400

Bali

June 29-July 6 Singing in Bali with Tony Backhouse
$AUD 1600 twin share; $AUD 350 single room supplement. Non-singing partners welcome: $ AUD1300
Contact Jennifer Richardson - info@singabout.com.au
http://www.singabout.com.au/Tony_Backhouse_Bali_2013
info@singabout.com.au This week will be a lighthearted nurturing holiday with a great balance of singing, exercise, delicious food and laughter. WHAT's ON OFFER: - Twice daily singing sessions with Tony most days. - Gamelan and Kecak lessons available. - Let's Dance session at the Yoga Barn on Sunday to free up the body through free dance to a fabulous eclectic groove and get into the Ubud mood. - Time for massages or spa treatments at Villa Gaia. - Delicious nutritious meals. - A guided walk through the rice fields. - Swimming in the Villa Gaia pool overlooking the rice fields. Open to all ages and all levels of singing experience. Accommodation is twin share or doubles.

FIJI

May 11–19 Rachel Hore Singing in Paradise
Rachel’s week of Singing in Paradise in Fiji is a regular part of the calendar for many of her followers. It is a joyous week in a beautiful location: a feast of workshops wrapped up in a holiday in Fiji. In the mornings, everyone comes together to learn and practice songs in 3 and 4 part harmony, singing from Rachel’s collection of contemporary Australian, gospel and world music songs. In the afternoons, the choir spends time learning Fijian songs and singing with a Fijian village choir. It’s a time when people form wonderful friendships both within the group and with the Fijians, and revel in the blissful release that singing brings. Rachel Hore is an exceptional teacher who brings a fantastic energy and warmth to her work. She can mould a group of relative strangers into a beautiful choir in an astonishingly short time, and she makes each and every singer believe in the glory of their own contribution. She has a relaxed, fun style of teaching and it suits beginners right through to experienced singers. Perhaps her most impressive strength is her unique ability to arrange music in a way that is not difficult to learn, even for a beginner, and those arrangements resonate deeply with the singers – call it bliss, call it ecstasy, but it raises the hair on the back of your neck, and is never forgotten. Accommodation is at Daku Resort in Savusavu on Fiji’s northern island of Vanua Levu – a 50-minute plane ride from Nadi. We stay in traditional bure-style cottages with beautiful views out over Savusavu Bay - a stunning setting for the week. Non-singing partners welcome. www.paradisecourses.com. Details and booking susan@paradisecourses.com or call +61 (02) 8094 1613

July 21–28 Tony Backhouse in Fiji A glorious week of a cappella gospel singing wrapped up in a holiday in Fiji with Tony Backhouse. Join us for a glorious week of a cappella gospel singing wrapped up in a holiday in Fiji with Tony Backhouse. The programme offers morning workshops followed by a mixture of afternoon visits to local villages to sing with their dynamic choirs, and free time to snorkel on the reef, hike up the mountain, enjoy a massage or laze by the pool with a book. From Margie Welsford, who came on one of Ton’y Fijian singing weeks: “Tony is a weaver of magic. He can sculpt a disparate group of people with mostly average voices into a choir that makes beautiful music. I have done workshops with Tony before but nothing prepared me for the pleasure, sense of achievement and sheer joy of working up a repertoire of songs over 6 days that culminated in a performance for the locals of Savusavu.” Accommodation is at Daku Resort in Savusavu on Fiji’s northern island of Vanua Levu – a 50-minute plane ride from Nadi. We stay in traditional bure-style cottages with beautiful views out over Savusavu Bay - a stunning setting for the week. Non-singing partners welcome. www.paradisecourses.com Details and booking sandra@paradisecourses.com or call +61 (02) 8094 1613

New Zealand

April 19-21 Tony Backhouse  Weekend residential workshop Mana Retreat Centre NZ http://www.tonybackhouse.com

April 26-28 Tony Backhouse  Song Leaders Network Aotearoa conference, Wellington NZ http://www.tonybackhouse.com

May 3-5 Tony Backhouse Weekend workshop Riverside, Nelson, NZ http://www.tonybackhouse.com
Contact Barbie: colebarbie1@gmail.com

May 10-12 Tony Backhouse Weekend workshop, Otago, NZ http://www.tonybackhouse.com
Contact Nicky: the viggers@ihug.co.nz

The MUSE Please check The Muse website for a wide selection of upcoming singing events, workshops and courses. http://themuse.org.nz/comingup/

Jabulani Community Choir inviting new members
Weekly in term time. Union Parish Chapel, Winchester Street, Lyttelton. 7:30-9:20pm, Gospel/World, four-part A Capella singing. No experience needed. Phone Jillie on 021 152 8068 or email jilltoogood@hotmail.com

LINWOOD - Tuesdays, 10.00am - 12.00pm, St. Chad's Church, Corner of Buckleys Road and Carnavon Streets

Tuesdays, 2.00pm - 4.00pm, KAIAPOI Kaiapoi Baptist Church, 67 Fuller Street, Kaiapoi. Contact Local coordinator - Theresa ph 981 4645

Wednesdays, 10.30am - 12.30pm RECLIFFS The Community Shed, 99C Main Road, Redcliffs map

Wednesdays, 2.00pm - 4.00pm ST. ALBANS Forfar Courts, 95 Forfar Street, St. Albans Cost: $5.00 per session (suggested donation) Bookings helpful.

  Book Here or Phone The Muse, 0800 THEMUSE, (0800 843 687) or email us

Australia

April 10-14 Four days cruising and singing the magnificant Murry River Singing Workshop with Rachel Hore. The tour will start and end in Mildura. We will go up-stream to Red Cliffs. Tour includes singing workshops, accommodation on one of two houseboats and all meals (this includes a meal at the Gol Gol Hotel and at the Trentham Winery). Rachel Hore is a much sought after teacher of choral singing. She has been performing and teaching throughout Australia and internationally for over 20 years, mentoring hundreds of singers in community choirs. A graduate of the NSW Conservatorium of Music, Rachel began her singing career with the highly acclaimed Australian vocal quartet ‘Arramaieda’, who became an important influence on the now flourishing choral scene in Australia. Limited places available. Cost $1250. For more information contact Elly Franchimont: Ph. (02) 6587 6097 Mob. 0424 220 937 email: elly@vocalpointevents.com

May 24-26 Tony Backhouse   Weekend workshop Cairns http://www.tonybackhouse.com Contact Sharon: sbunny7@hotmail.com

May 31-June 2 Tony Backhouse  Weekend workshop Melbourne http://www.tonybackhouse.com
Contact Babette: babetteo@bigpond.com

June 5-10 Melbourne International Singers Festival - workshops - Victoria, Australia. Melbourne International Singers Festival are offering a range of exciting workshops & masterclasses: *‘Faure in a Day’ with Dr Kathleen McGuire – Saturday 8th June *‘In Fine Voice’ with Dr Jonathon Welch – Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th June *‘Singing in Harmony’ with The Idea of North – Sunday 9th June *‘Conduct a Choir’ with Dr Kathleen McGuire - Sunday 9th June *‘Feel The Spirit’ masterclass with Drs William & Rosephanye Powell – Saturday 8th June. For all details go to – www.singersfestival.org. Individual Tickets & Festival Packages on sale now. Earlybird savings!

June 14-16 Tony Backhouse Weekend workshop Brisbane http://www.tonybackhouse.com
Contact Spencer: skdj@optusnet.com.au