FAQs

Q: I don’t currently sing in a choir – can I still apply to Cambridge Choral Academy?
A: Yes, if you have choral singing experience. We recommend a singing lesson shortly before, and undertaking vocal warmups suggested by our Artistic Director, Dr Edward Wickham which is sent out as part of the Joining Instructions.

Q: I don’t read music – should I apply?
A: Our courses are for experienced singers from around the world. Not being able to read music may seriously hamper your enjoyment of the course and you may struggle with trying new repertoire in small groups.

Q: Is this course suitable for children?
A: No, this is designed as an adult course, although we can consider young adults aged 17+.

Q: Will I have my own private bathroom?
A: Yes all rooms are ensuite unless specified otherwise.

Q: Can I bring a partner to share my room?
A: There are a small number of double ensuite rooms available, please indicate on your application form if you would like one of these. These are limited and available on a first come first served basis.

Q: Will I have a chance to explore Cambridge?
A: Yes, we have factored time in the schedule to explore this special city, both during our weekend retreats and our week-long academies

Q: Will there be the chance to sing in other Cambridge college chapels?
A: Yes, all our courses involve singing in several college chapels

Q: I have special dietary requirements – can I be accommodated?
A: Yes, our host colleges have wonderful catering departments that can accommodate those with special dietary requirements. Please indicate your requests clearly when you complete the About You form.

Q: Do I need to bring my own bedlinen and towels?
All bed linen and towels are provided by the host college

Q: Do your courses include all meals?
Yes they do. Breakfast, lunch and dinner each day, plus a coffee/tea break with biscuits in the morning.

Q: I’m flying in from abroad. Would it be possible for me to come a day early to settle in?
Yes, just get in touch and we’ll try and secure extra accommodation to ensure that you have a comfortable stay. Extra nights are charged in addition to the course fee.

Q: What time is check-in?
Check in is usually from 2pm on the start day of the course

Q: I’m booking my travel for the weekend Singing Retreat. When does the course end?
The Singing Retreat weekend finishes at 6pm on Sunday

Q: I’m booking my travel. When does the CCA summer school finish?
The Summer School finishes at approx 11am on the last day

Q: Can I invite friends to attend the services or the Gala Concert?
Yes, they would be welcome to attend. Exact timings of each service will be sent to you as part of the Joining Instructions.

Q: Is there parking onsite?
No, due to the age of the colleges there is no parking onsite. However there will be suggestions in the Joining Instructions for those who would like to drive to the course and park nearby,

Q: Do you suggest that I take out holiday insurance for this course?
Yes, we are unable to provide refunds from 90 days before the start of the course, so we strongly suggest you take out holiday insurance to cover the cost of the course plus your travel to and from the course, should you be unable to attend for whatever reason.

Cambridge Choral Academy