UMBRIAN SERENADES is a life-transforming choral program that brings together passionate singers from all over the U.S. who seek opportunities to perform exquisite a cappella repertoire within a small vocal chamber ensemble. These choral enthusiasts come together to enhance their vocal, musicianship, and ensemble skills, as well as savor all that small medieval hilltop towns in the heart of Italy can offer culturally, be it wine, olive oil, cooking, and the like.
This select 24-voice chamber ensemble performs sacred a cappella vocal works, spanning from Renaissance to Gospel, Spiritual and contemporary repertoire in unique spaces throughout the lush and breathtaking hills of Umbria.
2009 Summer Season Dates UPDATE: Limited space still available in all voice parts - APPLY TODAY!!
July 15 - July 27, 2009
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Hear what some of our participants are saying...
Ben
| Hometown: | North Hollywood, CA |
| Age bracket: | 25-40 |
| Voice part: | Tenor |
| Profession: | Junior High Music Teacher Tenor section leader, St. Bede’s Episcopal Church |
| Choral groups you presently sing with: | Cantori Domino (www.cantoridomino.org) |
"Umbrian Serenades was a perfect blend of musical artistry, cultural experience and gastronomic tastings in beautiful areas in central Italy. From the very beginning I could see that the trip was well planned and upon arriving I was not disappointed. Getting the chance to sing in some of the most famous churches in Italy was an experience I knew I couldn’t pass up. I am a big fan of rehearsal, and I LOVED the time we were able to spend as musicians in our own little rehearsal church. Making music is not about learning notes or about singing at the same time, but about connecting with each other and communicating a vocal line as well as a text to our audience. Having the intense rehearsal time allowed us to make that connection as a group before reaching out to our audiences. I would absolutely consider returning to this program! I would say that it is worth everything you would pay for the two weeks in Italy with a great guide, fantastic directors and a perfect setting to sing some of the most beautiful music there is!"
Vicki
| Hometown: | Encino, CA |
| Age bracket: | 40-55 |
| Voice part: | Soprano |
| Profession: | Production Accountant for TV Shows |
| Choral groups you presently sing with: | Church Choir, Vocalist in Praise Band, Small Church Ensemble Group |
"The entire choral experience along with a chance to savor the culture of Italy attracted me to this unique program. I was also very intrigued by the wonderful itinerary on the website. I was very nervous in the beginning because I had limited formal vocal training, but worked very hard to prepare myself and felt challenged, yet comfortable at the same time. Performing in some wonderful churches in Italy with others who shared my love of music and singing was an amazing experience—an experience of a lifetime, I’d say! I loved being part of a group that came from all over the U.S., but grew into a very tight ensemble. I now hear some of our concert repertoire on YouTube and I’m proud to say I was part of that group. I came back feeling like I grew and improved as a choral singer. I certainly hope to return next year! I would say this off-the-beaten-path program is for those who love to sing and are willing to work hard, be challenged, and have fun at the same time. It’s one of the best life experiences I have ever had!"
Dennis & Sue
| Hometown: | Doylestown, PA |
| Age bracket: | 55+ |
| Voice part: | Bass & non-singing travel companion |
| Profession: | Retired |
| Choral groups you presently sing with: | Bucks County Choral Society (www.buckschoral.org) Cordus Mundi Men's A Cappella Group (www.cordusmundi.com) Trinity Episcopal Church Choir |
"2008 was our second trip with Umbrian Serenades. We had gone on Serenades’ maiden trip in 2006 and had a terrific time. Our 2008 trip was even better! The artistic highlight was our inspired concert performance in the Upper Basilica of Assisi. However, when the group visited the Sacred Woods on Monteluco Mountain and sang ‘Heleluyan’, there wasn’t a dry eye around – that was a unique moment for both the singers and the non-singer friends! The non-singers have some open schedule days, which are ideal for easy-to-arrange day trips with Daniela’s assistance; Sue and some friends went to Spello and Norcia. Sue also enjoyed speaking the Italian she was studying. There is a comfortable camaraderie, respect, and ready laughter among the “Serenaders” that makes it easy to make new friends. We look forward to returning to Umbrian Serenades. To anyone thinking about going on Umbrian Serenades, we say that this trip is ideal for any lover of music, art, history, scenery, people, food and wine who wants a genuine, romantic, in-depth experience of Italy."