We are currently making plans for our 2027 Scottish Choral Weekend please check back later for more information or email: learning@dunedin-consort.org.uk
Scottish Choral Weekend
Join us for an unforgettable choral experience at The University of Stirling Campus, nestled in 330 acres of Scottish grounds. From 29 -31 May 2026, immerse yourself in the world of early music under the expert guidance of director Ellie Slorach (conductor of Songs of War I Have Seen, 2023 and our upcoming Choral Tour: Foldings and Whirlings) and talented singers from Dunedin Consort.
Our weekend offers something for everyone, from whole group singing and small ensemble sessions to personalised 1-2-1 vocal lessons, you can even take the stage and showcase your talents in our informal concert. On the final day, you will take part in a public performance at Stirling Castle which you are welcome to invite friends and family to.
Whole Group Repertoire
Handel – Dixit Domius
Palestrina – Sicut Cervus
Sarah Quartel – The Parting Glass
Sarah Quartel – The Parting Glass
Take a look at what past participants thought:
“I loved every minute and was sad it was not longer… I had so much fun and learned so much. The people working with us were fantastic and the attendees lovely. Such warmth and kindness all weekend. Touched my soul and you can’t get better than that.”
“Great feeling of achievement from the fact that it did all come together in the end, and the general camaraderie!”
“I just loved the whole thing especially when we performed the pieces. Hard to believe what was achieved. It was a privilege to work with such talented individuals.”
“It was a really lovely weekend, both musically and socially and you all really pulled the stops out to make its special – and succeeded!”
Questions?
If you can’t find what you are looking for from the information below, please email Learning & Participation team at learning@dunedin-consort.org.uk with any questions.
Find out more below:
Don’t miss this chance to elevate your choral skills, make lasting memories, and immerse yourself in the joy of music. Places are limited, so secure your spot today for the Dunedin Consort Scottish Choral Weekend!
When and where is it?
When is it?
The Choral Retreat will run from the evening of Friday 29 May through to the afternoon of Sunday 31 May 2026. Exact times will be confirmed closer to the time.
Where is it?
The University of Stirling Campus , Stirling FK9 4LA
The University of Stirling Campus enjoys an impressive location in central Scotland with 330 acres of stunning grounds. It offers a unique location with conference, exhibition, meeting, entertainment and sports facilities all within walking distance and on-site parking.
By Car: The University of Stirling is easy to get to. It provides a central location in Scotland and has on-site parking.
By Train: The closest station is Stirling Train Station, which is 9 minutes by taxi from the University or 12 minutes by bus.
By Bus: There are a number of buses to Stirling University.
Accommodation and food
The entire weekend will take place in the grounds of The University of Stirling with a performance at Stirling Castle to finish.
Accommodation
There is the option of double rooms for everyone. All rooms are ensuite, with all linens and towels provided and have access to a kitchen with a fridge and crockery.
Accessible rooms are available, please let us know if you have any additional requirements and we will be happy to assist.
Food
All meals will be included (Friday – Dinner, Saturday – Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner, Sunday – Breakfast/Lunch) as well as tea & coffee in the breaks. Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements, as the venue can cater to your needs.
We will provide wine and nibbles in the evening during our entertainment events.
What’s included?
What’s included
- Two nights of accommodation
- Meals throughout the weekend (Friday – Dinner, Saturday – Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner, Sunday – Breakfast/Lunch)
- Refreshments
- Tuition and workshop fees
- Optional 1-1 singing lesson
- Sheet music
- Nightly entertainment with a glass of wine and nibbles
What will we do?
Participants will take part in various singing activities, including group choral singing with Ellie Slorach, small group ensemble work which will be available for every level, and the option for 1-2-1 singing lessons with Dunedin Consort singers. Entertainment during the weekend includes a Dunedin Quiz Night, and an Informal Concert Night in the evenings, and performances from Dunedin Consort singers scattered throughout the weekend. On the final day, you will take part in a public performance at Stirling Castle which you are welcome to invite friends and family to.
What will we sing?
Singing Elements
- Group Choral Singing
- Option for more advanced singers to work on small group ensemble singing
- Optional 1-2-1 mini Singing Lesson
- Option to perform in our Informal Concert on Saturday evening
Repertoire
Handel – Dixit Domius
Palestrina – Sicut Cervus
Sarah Quartel – The Parting Glass
Sarah Quartel – The Parting Glass
All sheet music will be provided on arrival and will also be emailed to you in advance.
Who will be there?
The weekend will be directed by director Ellie Slorach and supported by at least 6 Dunedin Consort singers and an accompanist. The organisation for the weekend will be handled by Amy Strachan and Lucia Capellaro (Dunedin Consort Learning and Participation Managers). In addition to the Dunedin Consort staff, you will be joined by other like-minded participants who will be there for the entire weekend.
Do I need any experience?
Our weekend can be tailored to suit novice singers to more experienced singers. Our group sessions with Ellie Slorach will involve all participants, and everyone can sign up to our small ensemble sessions where you can decide which level you would be most comfortable in upon signing up. We will provide PDF’s of music and a link to a Spotify playlist in advance and can help with learning guides on request if needed.
Do I need to bring anything special with me?
Nothing special is required for the weekend other than some smart black clothes for the performance on Sunday. All music will be provided on arrival.
If you would like to sing (solo or duet with a friend etc) in our informal concert on the Saturday evening, let us know what you would like to perform and bring music for our accompanist to use.
– don’t forget your pencils!
What’s the cost and how do I sign up?
How do I book?
You can sign up and pay using our website, the link is located at the upper right of this page. Please keep in mind that we may limit bookings in order to balance the voice parts, so do sign up early to avoid disappointment. If we decide to limit specific voice parts, we will have a waiting list – please email amy@dunedin-consort.org.uk to be added to it.
How much?
Our all inclusive weekend costs £480.
If you would prefer to pay in instalments, we have the following option available:
- Pay deposit of £170 on sign up
- 1st February £160
- 1st March £150
Refund Policy
Full Refund Eligibility: You will be eligible for a full refund if your cancellation request is submitted by 1 February 2026.
Partial Refund Eligibility: If you choose to cancel after 1 February 2025 but before 1 March 2026, you will be eligible for a 50% refund. Beyond the 1st of March, we will not be able to refund you.
After the 1st of March 2026: After the 1st of March, we cannot offer a refund; however, you can transfer your place to a friend or request that we use your place as a scholarship place for a student.
Refund Process: To start the refund process, please contact Dunedin Consort at learning@dunedin-consort.org.uk. Provide your order details and reason for cancellation. We will guide you through the necessary steps to complete the refund process.
