A wonderful group of 23 singers gathered for the Songways singing week on Lundy, many of them staying on the island for the first time. Singers came from Bath, London, Lincolnshire, Bristol, Hertfordshire, Yorkshire, Somerset, Essex, Norfolk, Devon, Kent, the Netherlands and California. The week was led by Jane Harris, Director of Songways, who has been visiting Lundy for over 20 years.

Our repertoire reflected the natural beauty of the island and included songs from Wales, Cornwall, Scotland and the US. Jane’s original compositions included Standing Stones which was composed on Lundy in 2024. We sang in the newly restored church, in the amazing resonance of the Old Light stairwell, at the top of the Old Light wth a 360 degree view of the island, and outside in beautiful places on the island including the VC quarry on the sheltered East side. Our concert on the Thursday afternoon was throughly appreciated by a full audience of visitors and supported both St Helen’s Church Centre and the Lundy Fund. Several singers brought instruments and we enjoyed informal singing and instrumental sessions in the Marisco Tavern joined by other musicians staying on the island – fiddle, whistle, guitar and recorders.

Comments from singers:

“The songs, location, people and weather… all absolutely perfect”
“I loved everything about the week”
“The best by far of any singing courses I have enjoyed”
“Friendly and supportive… song choices perfect for the location”
“Teaching and encouragement from Jane was outstanding”
“Simply superb… expert teaching, beautiful songs, laughter and friendship”
“Beautifully organised, great repertoire of nature-themed songs, amazing backdrop at every turn”
“Wonderful in every way – singing exercises and tips, choice of songs, free time and sessions, fabulous venues for singing and great company… outstanding in its field”

Jane explains some of Lundy’s magic:

“Lundy has no cars, so from the moment you step onto the island, life moves at walking pace. Only three miles long & half a mile wide, it is a place of immense natural beauty & amazing contrasts. I first visited Lundy with my family 23 years ago and fell in love with the island. We have returned many times and are still discovering new delights. “

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