Singing Retreats

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

Register here.

Val’s command of early country harmony and repertoire and her ability to share that knowledge with singers is without parallel.

This workshop will focus on close harmony singing, with ample opportunity for break-out sessions to work on duets and trios.

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.

Aug 31-Sep 12, 2023

Ghana Singing Trip with Dr. Kathy Bullock and Brendan Taaffe

See the Sing Ghana! page.


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.