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Three annual choral weeks in Ávila, offering different ways to explore and enjoy Renaissance polyphony. International Singing Week and the Tallis Scholars Summer Course have comparable musical expectations; the Zenobia Summer Course offers an introduction at a more relaxed pace.
Which course is right for you?
Many singers enjoy both SIC and TSSC; others develop a preference for one working style. The choice often depends on holiday dates, invited tutors, repertoire and the way the week is organised, rather than a difference in musical level.
International Singing Week · SIC
Directed by Rupert Damerell, with a visiting vocal ensemble as guest faculty. The week combines full-choir singing with a particular emphasis on small ensembles and pre-formed groups.
The pace is less frenetic than TSSC, building towards one final concert. The guest ensembles bring their experience of working together to the development of listening, balance and communication; groups often work towards performing without a conductor.
Tallis Scholars Summer Course · TSSC
Directed by Peter Phillips and Rupert Damerell, with members of The Tallis Scholars. A busier, repertoire-led week, with mini-concerts providing regular opportunities to perform the music being studied.
The course combines full-choir rehearsals, small-group singing and coaching for pre-formed ensembles. Musical expectations are comparable to SIC, while the rhythm and working style of the week are different.
Zenobia Summer Course · ZSC
Led by Rupert Damerell, this is an introductory course in Renaissance choral singing. It is intended for singers with some choral experience who would like to explore this repertoire; previous experience of Renaissance polyphony is not required.
The demands are substantially lower than SIC and TSSC. Approachable repertoire and a more relaxed pace allow time to develop listening, tuning, phrasing and confidence in singing an independent part, alongside visits and opportunities to sing in historic Ávila.
Dates and applications
Dates, repertoire, tutors and preparation requirements are set out on the page for each annual edition. Details of the 2027 courses will be available soon.
For advice on choosing a course: info@zenobiamusica.com.