Courses & Retreats

The Earth Singers Programme.

Vocal Guardianship Training.

An in depth opportunity to explore the idea of Songlines (above) and what it means to become a Vocal Guardian or Steward. Combining shamanic practice with voice and prayer/intent.

Where are our songs of this land? We have had them in the past and some pockets of old ‘custom’ still exist. Inspired by the various world traditions which have not lost their native land songs, like the Sami of Scandinavia and the Australian Aborigines, we will begin the process of listening to and singing for our land.

Based on the principle that our world is ‘sound’, we can contribute to that sound positively. We can learn to listen to the sounds and songs of our environment. We can join the sounds of the universe and bring about an end to disassociation and alienation from our natural world. This can facilitate profound healing and brings connection, respect, gratitude, humility and a sense of belonging and joy. Once more attuned to our land, we find ourselves more able to make healthier and more sustainable and balanced decisions about our lives and how to be on the planet.

As well as developing confidence in our voices and exploring different singing styles, we will explore what it might mean to become a vocal guardian and take care of your garden, your well trodden footpath, your local spring, your favourite high place, sacred site or ancient tree. We will learn through singing how to be in harmony with our natural world.

Watch the clip for more details:

Through the four weekend modules you will

• explore a variety of landscapes
• learn ways of listening to nature and to sound
• develop your voice and singing skills
• begin working with particular places
• research your own local places and any history of songs they might have
• explore what guardianship/stewardship means and how it can work for us individually and for our communities

Introductory Weekend 30/31 July at the Clophill Centre, Bedfordshire Cost £175

Earth Singers Module 1 12 -15 September at the Bluff Centre, Tintagel, Cornwall. Cost tbc

A fantastic venue. Not to be missed.

Shamamnism. Introductory Weekends

A two day workshop introducing all you need to explore the shamanic path. Includes the use of drum, rattle, sage and song, journeying, power animals and spirit guides.

Heartsong Workshops “Sound, joined with intention, can heal and transform.”

Experience toning, singing , Indian Raag and mantra in this inspirational, transformative and heart opening workshop.

Extended toning and singing, accompanied by harmonium drone, open us physically, emotionally and spiritually, encouraging deep awareness and expansion. The drone is as ancient as creation and when we hear it, we remember and cannot help but join it. Singing collectively in this way brings about a unique healing vibration, encouraging us to realign with our authentic selves and true purpose. We relax, release tension and open our hearts. We witness ourselves in sound with loving compassion, allowing blockages to fall way. We ride sound waves which carry us to a central place, going beyond the individual and connecting with the eternal, the universal, the essence of life itself.

From that open source we can then go into the form of Hindustani Raag. Raag, a component of the classical and spiritual music of India, is based in the ancient Sanskrit tradition of healing sound, which accurately reflects and affects the world around us. It is profoundly beautiful and has an invaluable contribution to make in any sound healing practice and to our desire to come back into balance with ourselves and our environment. Mantras are also used.

During the workshop essential tips for voice production, breathe control, relaxation and performance are given, as are reflections and ways of using this method as an active meditation technique.

There are one day, weekend and festival Heartsong workshops plus a weekly class in West Cornwall. Please check diary for details.

Introduction to North Indian Raag

These weekends begin with the Heartsong process and then go into more focussed teaching of Raag. This ancient Sanskrit system of music is exquisitely beautiful and deeply sacred. We will begin working with the Sagam (the syllables) the Alaap, compositions and improvisation. A must for those inspired by Indian music.

Sing Out Workshops

Personal development retreats offering an opportunity to sing out in the natural world in some thrilling locations. Ancient Sanskrit and shamanic body and voice techniques combine with walking to bring profound healing and connection to the natural landscapes of these amazing and inspiring landscapes. Sing your essential self to stone, wind, fire and ocean. Experience the elements directly as you sing your prayers. In this workshop we tune in to the energy of the season as well as the location.

• Sing Out Isles of Scilly.   Coming April 2012

Introduction to Shamanic Song

This course focuses on the basics of shamanic practice and shamanic song, including finding your own songs for personal empowerment, prayer and ritual.

Songlines

What are the songs of our land?

This course facilitates singing of and for the land and all who live on it. Listening skills and voice techniques for singing inside and out, honouring special places, beings and trackways. Inspired by the Nordic Sami people and the Songlines of the Australian aborigines this introductory course gives the confidence to begin singing for the land and gives pointers for how to develop this further. Call to arrange/offer venue ideas.

Embody Your Voice

Speaking Well and the Art of Communicating

These workshops are designed for anyone who needs to speak in their profession. The course will look at how the voice is used and what it needs for free and healthy expression. Ideal for teachers, health professionals, anyone who needs to speak publicly, or for those who wish to improve the way they speak. A one day workshop which can bring about far reaching, beneficial changes in the way we express ourselves.

Embody sessions are also available on a one to one basis.

Sacred Flute Circle

Learn to play Native American flute, compose your own melodies and become part of a circle of indigenous wisdom. Individual sessions also available.

Shruti Doctor

Learn how to play your shrutibox and harmonium and understand the basics of music. Individual or group sessions available.