Fifty-five singers from the UK, Ireland, US and Canada gathered for a week of harmony singing in a magnificent 15th-century abbey within walking distance of Lake Garda in Italy, led by John Harrison from Vermont, US, Jane Harris of Songways, and Carlo Pozzoli from Milan.
We stayed in the beautiful 15th century Abbazia di Maguzzano overlooking the southern shore of Lake Garda, near Desenzano del Garda and the picturesque medieval town of Sirmione, built in 1490 on the site of an ancient religious house.
“Wonderful range of music, amazing location”
“A magnificently balanced and varied week of singing”
The rich variety of repertoire included folk songs, gospel, early Italian polyphony, and original compositions by John and Jane. We sang in the spacious singing room in the Abbey, which opened on to the courtyard, in the open air garden chapel with stunning views towards Lake Garda, and in the beautiful Abbey cloisters. Optional evening sessions featured early Italian polyphony led by Carlo and Shapenote singing led by John. Jane led several songs with her violin and was joined by other instrumentalists during the week, and Carlo led circle dancing in the courtyard each morning – a lovely way to start the day. Singers also enjoyed free time to visit local sites such as Sirmione, to enjoy the bars and restaurants on the lake and to swim. John, Jane and Carlo are looking forward to leading another week at Maguzzano in August 2025.
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- Our wonderful group of singers from the UK, Ireland, US and Canada
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- Tutors Carlo, Jane and John with co-ordinators Giulia and Paula
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- View from the Abbey