How it works

HISS courses have three complementary elements: progressives, polysembles and pick and mix.

The Progressive is a series of classes that runs through the week, working on improving your technique for your chosen voice or instrument.

The Polysemble is a group of singers or instruments, or both, working on a set of pieces – which might be folk, medieval, Renaissance or Baroque – that you’ll then perform at the final concert.

The Pick and mix sessions offer you a daily menu of sessions over a range of topics, genres and styles. Stick to one genre, or choose anything that takes your fancy!

In between sessions, a Shortie may be wedged – HISS’s name for a 15-minute presentation on almost any subject, often given by a participant. Varied, witty and fun, they can also be surprisingly educational!

At the end of the day, join tutors and participants in the bar for a friendly playing session.

Timetable

On Monday, you can register from 2pm in the Meadows (dining hall) and pick up your room key and timetable. The first session is in the Conference Hall at 4pm, where you’ll meet the tutors. Then you’ll have your first Progressive class, followed by a Shortie presentation before the evening meal. From dinner-time, the sign-up sheets for the next day’s Pick and Mix sessions will be out. After dinner, your first Polysemble session. Then every evening, the bar is open and there will be playing and singing for anyone who wants to join in.

From Tuesday to Thursday, you’ll start the day with a Progressive. There will be four Pick and Mix sessions spread through the day, plus a Polysemble. Lunch can be whenever you like, and there’s free time afterwards to have a rest, or organise more music-making. On Wednesday evening, there’s a highlight: the Tutors’ Concert, when you’ll get to hear the professionals. On Thursday, there’s a Musical Banquet with opportunities for the established groups and any ad hoc groups to contribute items.

Friday: Classes as usual in the morning (but you will need to clear your room by 9.30am). After lunch, there’s a final informal concert in which all the polysembles perform the music they’ve been working on. The concert will finish around 3pm, and the course ends with a group photograph outside.