A weekend of glorious harmony singing in the midst of autumn splendour. Enliven your spirit with a feast of harmonies and learn songs from a range of cultures and traditions spanning the globe, all in a wonderful Derbyshire setting.

From £190 per person. Book online here: chrisrowbury.com

Willersley Castle was commissioned by Sir Richard Arkwright, the great industrialist, in the 1790s. Many of the original features can still be seen today. The Castle overlooks the Derwent Valley world Heritage site with plenty of excellent walks in the area. The main hotel has 30 bedrooms, extensive grounds and a heated indoor swimming pool. You can go on a virtual tour of the hotel, rooms and grounds on the Willersley Castle website.

The majority of rooms are en suite, but there are a few, cheaper non-ensuite rooms available (please enquire for more information). Some of the superior rooms have fantastic views over the Derwent Valley. All the bedrooms at Willersley Castle include tea and coffee making facilities and a hairdryer. There is also a lift in the castle serving both first and second floor bedrooms.

Experience the ancient art of unaccompanied sacred singing, used by people throughout the world to bring joy, healing and inspiration to their lives. Enliven your spirit with a feast of harmonies and learn songs from a range of cultures spanning the globe.

Sacred Song encompasses an amazing mix of musical diversity: from the Black gospel church and the slave plantations of rural Southern USA, to Jewish Sephardic singing from Spain; from South African protest songs to New Zealand Maori hymns; from Corsican polyphony to the lush harmonies of the Russian Orthodox church; from the chants of the Taize community to medieval plainsong; from the Georgian church to the Shaker community; and much more in between. We will learn several songs from some of these different traditions, all especially arranged for voice in unaccompanied harmony.

The weekend will draw on songs from a wide range of sources from across the globe. Singing sessions 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 soak up the autumn colours.

This weekend is open to all whether you just sing in the bath, or perform in public. All songs have been carefully chosen and arranged for voice only, and will be taught by ear. No previous experience needed, just bring your vocal cords and your enthusiasm! 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.

Book online here: chrisrowbury.com