If your query is not answered by the responses below, please don’t hesitate to email us at issigeacima@gmail.com.

Prior to the course we also establish a Whatsapp Group for students and you can use this group to share any questions you might have about any aspect of the course.

​

REGISTRATION & FINANCIAL FEES (SPRING COURSES 2025)

How do I apply? The application forms for the Choral Course are available on a link on the COURSES page.  If you are applying for the Masterclass Course, you need to forward a CV and current video of you singing, for Nelly's approval, by email to issigeacima@gmail.com. 

What is the minimum age of students? The minimum age is 18 – there is no maximum age.

What is included in the fees? For the Masterclass Course the fees cover all course tuition, accommodation, breakfast and an evening meal and transport to and from your accommodation to rehearsals and performances. For the Choral Course the fees cover your tuition. 

What is not included in the fees? Fees do not cover transport costs to and from Bergerac Airport or Bergerac Train Station where you will be collected and taken to Issigeac. For the Choral Course no meals, transport or accommodation are included in the fee. For both courses you need to bring your own music, details for which you will be sent in advance. Music stands are provided.

When and how can I pay for the Choral Course? You can pay for the course on the application page.

When and how can I pay for the Master Class? Once you are accepted on the Masterclass Course you will be asked to pay a deposit to secure your place. The balance is required one month prior to the course commencing. 

 

TRAVELLING TO ISSIGEAC

What is the best way to travel to and from Bergerac? There are regular international flights into Bergerac Airport which is a twenty-minute drive from Issigeac. There are also regular trains from Bordeaux to Bergerac. Links to transport sites are available on the CONTACTS page.

What is the best way to travel to and from Issigeac ?  Masterclass students will be collected from the airport/station and driven to your accommodation in Issigeac. For Choral Course students we strongly recommend hiring a car, unless you are local, so that you can explore the area. There are very few taxis available in this area. Car hire info is on the CONTACTS page.

Where should I go upon arrival? Details of where you are expected on arrival will be sent to you as part of your Welcome Pack.

​

ACCOMMODATION

What types of accommodation are available? We have several highly rated accommodation partners, but most of the accommodations are gîtes or shared holiday villas. Most students will be in shared rooms. 

Is there WIFI available? Yes

Is there anything I should bring with me for my stay? It can be cold at night in France, especially in the spring, so if you are affected by the cold, warm nightwear is advised. 

May I practice in my accommodation? Yes, most students practice in their own rooms or shared spaces. 

 

EVERYDAY LIFE

Do I need a car in Issigeac? A car is not essential, especially for Masterclass students, but public transport is extremely limited in this part of France and taxis almost non-existent. So, if you would like to see more of the area when you’re not studying, hiring a car will help you do this. 

What is the weather like in Issigeac? The weather in Issigeac in the Spring is best described as unpredictable. Some years we have had glorious sunshine and in others storms and rain showers – sometimes both in the same day. So best to be prepared and bring everything from a swimsuit to weatherproofs. The performance spaces can also be cold, especially the churches, so plenty of layering is advised. 

What else would you recommend I bring with me? Mosquito lotion is always a good idea. For clothing see above.

Where do students eat lunch? What time is lunch? Where you have lunch will depend upon the rehearsal schedule, but most students buy their lunch from the local cafes and shops.

What are the arrangements for other meals? For Masterclass Students a continental breakfast and an evening meal are provided by Domaine du Jurmilhac, our accommodation partner. For Choral Course students there are a range of local restaurants and bars who serve food. If you have any allergies or dietary requirements, please let us know in advance.