Singing Course for Non-Singers 7/2026

Does group singing make you anxious? Are you nervous about Christmas carols? Unfortunately, many Finns fear or avoid singing because they have somehow come to believe they cannot sing. In reality, singing ability is no different from other skills: with good guidance and practice, everyone can learn. This course introduces the basics of singing from scratch, using vocal exercises, playful use of the voice, and easy songs. On this course, singing is done in a group, and no one is forced to sing alone in front of others. Everyone interested in singing can join, even if they can't sing a single tune! The price includes a private 15-minute singing lesson. The instructor is music lecturer Reijo Aittakumpu, who has over twenty years of experience working with developing singers.

Wednesday, July 22nd                                                          

3:00 PM               Dinner

4:00 PM–6:00 PM   Course opening

                         Introduction

                         Fundamentals of voice use and physiology, warm-up

6:00 PM               Ninth Hour, Vespers, Small Compline and evening prayers in the main church

7:30 PM               Supper

8:00 PM–9:30 PM     Breathing exercises, playing with voice, easy songs

Thursday, July 23rd

6:00 AM               Midnight Office, Matins and Liturgy in the main church

7:30 AM–9:00 AM   Monastery breakfast

9:00 AM–10:30 AM      Stretching, warm-up and vocal exercises. Singing easy songs

10:30 AM–11:00 AM     Break

11:00 AM–12:00 PM      Vocal repertoire

12:00 PM                Prayer service in the main church

12:30 PM                 Lunch

1:30 PM–3:00 PM       Vocal exercises and easy songs

3:00 PM                Break, possibility to buy a snack or coffee

3:30 PM–9:00 PM       Opportunity for 15-minute private instruction (schedule agreed upon during the course)

6:00 PM                Ninth Hour, Vespers, Small Compline and evening prayers in the main church

7:30 PM                Supper

Friday, July 24th

6:00 AM                   Midnight Office, Matins and First Hour in the main church

7:30 AM–9:00 AM            Breakfast

9:00 AM                   Warm-up and vocalization, songs

                           Review and summary

               Final discussion and reflection, feedback

11:30 AM                 Closing lunch

Room check-out by 12:00 PM.

To be updated later.