Sing folk songs from the British Isles
Learn folk songs from England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland all arranged for voice only. A weekend of singing in the beautiful Derbyshire Peak District.
"Quite frankly this was the best singing weekend that I've ever experienced. The choice of material and arrangements were great and the overall enjoyment has been amazing. Such a wonderful group of people." Participant on previous Folk songs weekend
Not been on one of Chris's singing weekends before? You might like to check out some frequently asked questions.
Friday 13 October 2023 5pm to Sunday 15 October 2023 2pm
Cliff College
Calver
Hope Valley
Sheffield, S32 3XG
Click here for venue accessibility information.
Cost: £240 (twin/double) | £250 (single occupancy) PER PERSON
if booked and paid for by 14 July 2023, otherwise £20 per person more
SOLD OUT — contact Chris to go on waiting list.
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Cliff College is situated on the outskirts of the village of Calver, in the beautiful Peak District National Park. The site is just below Curbar Edge and next to the river Derwent. All rooms are en-suite and have a television and drink-making facilities. Free wi-fi and parking are available on site. There are plenty of excellent walks in the area and you will have time on Saturday afternoon to explore.
The venue is a Christian theological college, although the weekend will be secular and open to all, regardless of religious beliefs. However, there is no smoking or alcohol allowed on site. There are several pubs within walking distance.
We will learn a variety of traditional folk songs from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales arranged in 3- and 4-part harmony.
Rousing drinking songs, yearning love songs, robust sea shanties, spooky ballads, songs of the countryside. Something for everyone! All songs have been arranged
for voice only – not a backing track or instrument in sight! Although you might like to bring an instrument with you if anybody's up for a session in the evenings.
Chris teaches everything by ear so there is no need to read music (and there will be no sheet music available). He will make a recording of the workshop available
free afterwards. This will remind you of the weekend and impress you with the sound we create together.
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Comments from previous British Folk singing weekends:
"I want to say a big thank you for a marvellous respite weekend, it was just what I needed to be away from the two folk that I care for. You led us in the workshops with good humour and ease, and I was revelling in your creative arrangements of the songs. It was lovely to have old songs to sing in new ways, and although I don't feel that I have to sing them again, it is delightful to have them spooling through my head as earworms. Delicious earworms I mean."
"I have been on many singing weekends/holidays and I have to say this was one of the best. It was good to be taken out of my comfort zone by not holding sheets of music! You have been very kind and encouraging. The teaching was excellent. It was nice not to be told off when making a mistake! The venue and food were great, people lovely, and the amount of breaks perfect."
"Delightful introduction to folk and British music. Great for newcomers or those more experienced. Fun, confidence-building and skill-enhancing!"
"I really enjoyed the weekend, my first time with you and a new experience in the method of singing in a group. I found it strange at first, but soon got into the flow. I will now be able to 'listen'."