Since 2007, Turtle Dove has been offering singing retreats throughout Europe and North America. Known for creating a safe and welcoming space for every voice, each Turtle Dove workshop brings together compelling leaders with different repertoire and a shared passion for community singing.



Upcoming retreats
October 20-22, 2023
Singing Intensive with Val Mindel and Brendan Taaffe at Basin Farm
Cost: $275.
Note: the tuition does NOT include accommodation. There are many places to stay in Brattleboro and in Greenfield, Mass., which are roughly equidistant from Basin Farm. The tuition DOES include three meals.
Schedule: Friday night: social sing from 7:00 Saturday: programming from 10 am-5 pm. Dinner at 6:30. Sunday: programming from 10 am – 3 pm.
Jan 13-15, 2024
Singing Intensive with Brendan Taaffe at Basin Farm
This weekend will focus on Brendan’s original compositions as well as gleanings from a year of musical travels in Ghana, Senegal, and the Occitan region of Southern France.
Cost: $275.
Note: the tuition does NOT include accommodation. There are many places to stay in Brattleboro and in Greenfield, Mass., which are roughly equidistant from Basin Farm. The tuition DOES include five meals.
Schedule: Friday night: social sing from 7:00 Saturday and Sunday: programming from 10 am-5 pm. Dinner at 6:30. Monday: programming from 10 am – 3 pm.
A Word about COVID-19
Because of our concern for the health of our communities, we are requiring that all singers be fully vaccinated. You will be asked to email a photo of your vaccination card as proof. In addition, we require a negative test result within 72 hours of the event.
We are also aware that the situation continues to change and that what feels safe now may not feel safe in three months time. If the program needs to be cancelled because of pandemic safety, or if you are unable to attend because of covid-specific health concerns, tuition will be fully refundable.
More about Singing Intensives
Modeled on the Bright Wings Chorus approach, singing intensives are an opportunity for a group of 12-16 experienced singers to dig deep and work hard. We expect that each singer will be able to hold a harmony part on their own. Rehearsals take place at Brendan’s charming 1796 Vermont farmhouse, and we eat lunch and dinner together. These intensives are non-residential.