IIMA CHORAL COURSE  5 - 9 MAY 2027

Location -  Issigeac, Dordogne, France

Join us for five unforgettable days of singing, artistry and camaraderie in the picturesque medieval village of Issigeac. The IIMA Choral Course is open to singers of all abilities who want to strengthen technique, expand repertoire and perform with confidence. The 2027 course will centre on Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem — a sublime, rewarding work for choirs and soloists alike — guided by conductor Michael Waldron.

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Why attend

- Intensive, supportive coaching in a small-group setting

- Expert direction from Michael Waldron, with a focus on vocal technique, choral blend and expressive phrasing

- Full rehearsal schedule culminating in a public performance of Fauré’s Requiem

- Scenic, relaxed location ideal for creative focus and social connection

- Evening social events 

 

Course leader — Michael Waldron

Michael Waldron is a widely respected conductor and choral director known for expressive programming and warm, practical teaching. He brings his experience of leading amateur and professional choirs, with a particular affinity for French repertoire and Romantic era works. Michael’s approach balances solid technical foundations with musical freedom, helping singers discover clarity, tone and confidence.

 

Course format & daily schedule (sample)

- Day 1 (Wed 5/05): Arrival, welcome session, voice placement, introductory rehearsals

- Days 2–3 (Thu–Fri): Morning technique & sectional rehearsals; afternoon full choir rehearsals; late afternoon optional workshops. 

- Day 4  : Morning technique & sectional rehearsals; afternoon dress rehearsal and evening public concert including Fauré’s Requiem

- Day 5 (Sun 9/05): review of the performance; full choir rehearsals and evening public concert including Fauré’s Requiem

Repertoire

- Main work: Gabriel Fauré — Requiem in D minor (full performance)

- Supplementary choral pieces chosen to develop blend, diction and style (French mélodie, sacred and secular short works)

 

Who should come

- Amateur and community singers seeking development in ensemble singing

- Conservatory-level and advanced singers wanting focused choral experience

- Conductors and choral leaders looking for practical rehearsal techniques

- Singers comfortable with basic music reading (scores and parts will be provided in advance where possible)

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Venues & accommodation

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For those wishing to stay in Issigeac, we have once again partnered with the wonderful Domaine de Jurmilhac as our accommodation partner. Set in the heart of the beautiful Dordogne countryside, just 25 minutes from Bergerac International Airport and moments from the charming medieval village of Issigeac, Domaine de Jurmilhac offers an inspiring setting for a memorable choral holiday.

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Surrounded by 17 acres of peaceful parkland, this beautifully restored 16th-century hamlet provides the perfect environment to immerse yourself in music, learning, and relaxation. Ancient oak trees, tranquil ponds, an orchard, historic stone ruins, and sweeping views across the Périgord landscape create a calm and restorative atmosphere away from the distractions of everyday life.

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Participants are accommodated in luxurious independent stone villas, each thoughtfully restored to preserve the character of traditional Périgord architecture while providing every modern comfort. Private entrances, parking, and panoramic terraces allow you to enjoy both the companionship of fellow singers and moments of quiet reflection.

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The villas are fully equipped with high-quality kitchens, making it easy to prepare meals, share refreshments with new friends, or enjoy a leisurely morning coffee before rehearsals begin. At the end of a rewarding day of music-making, exceptionally comfortable beds with premium memory-foam mattresses, duck-down duvets, and Egyptian cotton linens ensure a restful night's sleep.

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As the accommodation offered is in villas, this is shared accommodation, either in twin rooms or, for those who are attending the course as a couple, in a double room. 

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Whether singing, socialising, or simply soaking up the beauty of the Dordogne, Domaine de Jurmilhac provides an exceptional setting in which to learn, perform, and unwind.

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Rehearsals will take place in the Maison des Services in Issigeac and the performance will take place in the Église Saint Félicien in Issigeac.​​