Rebirths and Revivals:
Two English Choral Renaissances

7-11 April 2026, venue TBA

Sidney main court

“A wonderful weekend of learning and music making. It was unforgettable. I’ll definitely be recommending it to my fellow
choir members”

Our first specialist course is dedicated to the repertoire of the two Renaissances in English music.

England has witnessed (at least) two artistic Renaissances in the last millennium; and both have brought with them sublime choral music. Alongside the work of Thomas Tallis, William Byrd and other 16th century masters, this course will present music by composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries who were inspired by the rediscovery of their musical heritage, such as Parry, Vaughan Williams and Holst.

We will visit manuscripts and learn how to read them, and hear from some of Cambridge’s most eminent musicologists. In complementary talks, we will find out more of the rejuvenation of English cathedral music which led eventually to the birth of the Early Music movement.

Works to include:

John Taverner: Dum transisset Sabbatum
William Byrd: Haec dies
Thomas Tallis: Magnificat
Hubert Parry: Never weather-beaten sail
Ralph Vaughan-Williams: Kyrie (from Mass in G minor)
Gustav Holst: Nunc dimittis

This course is designed to immerse you in the rich choral life of Cambridge, singing Evensong and Compline by candle-light in historic chapels under the direction of celebrated Cambridge choir directors, with a programme of glorious repertoire, and accommodation in one of the historic colleges. Alongside the choral workshops, you’ll enjoy complementary cultural and educational talks, and a sumptuous formal dinner. You will develop your voice and choral skills with daily vocal health sessions, and enjoy warm camaraderie with a friendly group of people who share your passion for choral music.

Experience this extraordinary world from the inside:

  • Ensuite accommodation in a historic Cambridge college (please bear in mind this is an academic setting rather than a hotel)
  • Sing in iconic Cambridge college chapels, each with a different acoustic, feel and organ
  • Evensong and Compline under leading Cambridge choral directors
  • Vocal health sessions to develop and sustain your voice
  • Welcome drinks reception where you will have the opportunity to meet the other participants and the weekend tutors and staff
  • Saturday night formal dinner with fine wines from the College cellar
  • Complementary cultural and educational talks with academic specialists to give context and insights
  • Time out to explore Cambridge

FEES: TBA

Student Scholars: we’re pleased to offer a limited number of Student Scholarships at reduced fees for singers aged 18-25yrs*. To apply, please email [email protected].

Full course fee includes full board for 2 nights, all tuition, welcome drinks reception, music hire, 3-course formal dinner with private dining and other activities. All rooms are single occupancy and ensuite with tea and coffee making facilities. Bedding and towels are provided.

We have a limited number of double rooms so if you’d like to bring a partner along, there’s lots for them to do in Cambridge while you’re singing. They are welcome to join us for meals and social activities and attend evensongs and concerts. Non-singing guest fees on request.

* Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. To qualify for our “bring a friend” offer, your friend must be new to CCA. 

“Really enjoyed the formal dinner, the food, wine and port were delicious! And, for someone who is usually extremely shy, I felt at ease very quickly and actually really loved meeting everybody on the course; tutors and fellow course attendees alike.
It was a weekend I will never forget.”

We will be seeking to create a balanced chamber choir.  Applicants should be experienced choral singers with good note-reading ability. 

Cambridge Chorał Academy is an independent organisation which contracts with Cambridge Colleges for the use of facilities. This event otherwise has no connection or association with the University of Cambridge or its Colleges.

Privacy Policy

Read our Privacy Policy

Site Map

Take a look at our Site Map

T&Cs

Read our Terms & Conditions

Cambridge Choral Academy