About HISS

If you like early music, traditional and folk music, or classical music, HISS is for you. HISS - the Historically Informed Summer School - is an international residential summer school which explores early music and folk and traditional music, and the connections and common ground between them. It is a unique opportunity to try a rewarding repertoire. If you are new to this repertoire, or come to it from a classical background, HISS offers a chance to experience early and traditional music in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. For more experienced singers and players, students and professionals, our excellent team of tutors provide a stimulating environment in which to explore the repertoire in depth.

The course offers an intensive practical experience over five days for singers and players of period and modern instruments. Classes and workshops for singers, plucked and bowed strings (including viols, baroque and modern strings), wind and keyboard players, fall into three categories: integrated progressive series exploring repertoire & technique, and especially the links between traditional and early music; classes exploring particular aspects of technique, repertoire, or enabling and supporting mixed and smaller ensembles; optional sessions on specific repertoire or genres.

Check out our reviews and comments from past participants here.

Have a look at our Gallery pages to see what we got up to in previous years!
Quotes from HISS 2016 feedback and emails:
"Had an amazing time! Thank you!"

"Thank you for organising such a wonderful week. The dates are in the diary already for next year! Best wishes"

"I was so inspired by the ‘have-a-go’ atmosphere at HISS that when I got home I dug out a recorder that someone gave me 50 years ago and I’m now learning to play – maybe I’ll be able to join in some of the recorder ensembles in 2018 or 19!"

"I'd like to tell you that this course was the best one I've participated in ever, both from a musical and a human point of view; it's so pleasant to come across both folk music and early music players. I'd be delighted to join again."

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the ceilidh on the first night gets everyone off on the right foot!