Former Non-Singers' Choir 7/2026

If choir singing appeals to you, but joining a choir makes you nervous, come and try singing in a choir in a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere. On the course, we will sing communal songs in unison and in multiple parts, and accustom the mind and ear to a choir environment. We will also practice the basics of vocalization and aim to expand vocal range with exercises. There are no skill requirements for the course, but the institute's Singing Courses for Non-Singers are good preparation for those who are unsure about the choir course. The instructor is Reijo Aittakumpu, Lecturer of Music, who has over twenty years of experience working with developing singers.

Friday, July 24th                                                         

3:00 PM                   Dinner

4:00 PM–6:00 PM        Course opening

                              Introduction

                             Fundamentals of voice use, breathing exercises, warm-up

6:00 PM                  Ninth Hour, Vespers, Small Compline and Three Canons in the old church

7:30 PM                  Supper

8:00 PM–9:30 PM   Community singing, practicing singing in parts

Saturday, July 25th

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

7:30 AM–9:00 AM   Monastery breakfast

9:00 AM–10:30 AM     Warm-up and vocal exercises. Easy canons and two-part songs

10:30 AM–11:00 AM    Break

11:00 AM–12:00 PM    Practice

12:00 PM                 Prayer service in the old church

12:30 PM                  Lunch

1:30 PM–3:00 PM       Practice

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

3:30 PM–6:00 PM       Practice, community singing

6:00 PM                  Vigil 

7:30 PM                  Supper

Sunday, July 26th, 

7:30 AM–9:00 AM          Monastery breakfast

9:00 AM                 Third Hour and Liturgy 

10:30 AM                 Warm-up and vocal exercises.

                            Practice

Room check-out by 12:00 PM.

12:15 PM                     Closing lunch

1:00 PM–3:00 PM         “Final Concert” (with or without audience)

Final discussion and reflection, feedback

To be updated later.