Singing holiday in La Mancha, Spain
This holiday is running alongside our Guitar and Photography courses.
Description of Singing holiday in La Mancha, Spain
Set in the heart of central Spain, this choral week is based at the beautiful Parador de Almagro, a restored historic building that offers an inspiring and relaxed environment for singing, learning and socialising. The course is led by the much-loved choral conductor and vocal specialist Hilary Campbell, whose enthusiasm, warmth and musical insight bring repertoire vividly to life.
The week combines focused choral work with time to unwind and explore, culminating in a public concert that celebrates the music prepared during the course. Alongside rehearsals, this is very much a holiday: sociable, energising and full of shared musical experience.
Course Highlights
• Expert tuition with a leading choral conductor and vocal coach
• Inspiring setting in a historic Parador in the heart of La Mancha
• Carefully planned excursions to some of central Spain’s most striking historic sites
• Informal performances and a convivial alfresco evening
• Final public concert in a local venue
Course Overview
Led by Hilary Campbell, the repertoire is a lively and rewarding mix of well-loved choral works and lighter pieces, chosen to suit the group and the setting. From the outset, rehearsals focus on vocal technique, ensemble confidence and musical communication, all delivered with Hilary’s trademark energy and good humour.
Participants rehearse daily, with additional small-group coaching sessions offering more detailed vocal support. Music is provided in advance, allowing singers to arrive prepared and ready to enjoy the week to the full.
Excursions and Time to Relax
Afternoons are shaped around a programme of excursions that reflect the rich history and culture of the region, alongside free time to relax, socialise or enjoy the Parador’s pool and peaceful courtyards. Highlights include exploring Almagro itself, a visit to the dramatic fortress-monastery of Calatrava la Nueva, an afternoon and evening in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Toledo, and a private wine visit in Valdepeñas.
The course concludes with a final concert in a local venue, bringing together the week’s work in a celebratory performance shared with fellow participants and the local community.
Price information
This holiday is running alongside our Guitar and Photography courses.
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Travel guides
Reviews
4 Reviews of Singing holiday in La Mancha, Spain
Reviewed on 06 Sep 2025 by Anthony Bynom
On reflection satisfaction with a week well spent and a job well done Read full reviewReviewed on 26 Aug 2023 by Jodie Nelson
Do it! If you are trying to decide whether it is right for you, give it a go. You will be welcomed with open arms and will find lots of different people to chat and sing with. Read full reviewReviewed on 08 Sep 2018 by Brian Smith
This was a brilliant holiday, well organised and the musicianship I learned from Mary and Jeremy will stay with me. Read full reviewReviewed on 02 Sep 2017 by Simon Taylor
Staying in the beautiful Pousada at Guimaraes, meeting a variety of friendly people on the singing, guitar and photography courses, the singing course itself and working on challenging music, led by Mary King, singing in the final concert in Guimaraes. Read full reviewResponsible Travel
Planet
We take practical steps to reduce unnecessary use of resources during our courses. During our time in Spain, we work with local suppliers wherever possible and favour locally sourced and seasonal food.Water conservation is particularly important in this region. For our groups, we ask the Parador to reduce the frequency of linen and towel changes from its usual service, to avoid unnecessary use of water and energy. We also encourage participants to be mindful of their water use, choosing shorter showers rather than baths.
When visiting the surrounding countryside and historic sites, we ask participants to follow local guidelines, stay on established paths and take all litter away with them.
In the UK, Helicon Arts is a small, web-based organisation. Client communications are electronic, and the small amount of paper we use is recycled.
People
Our accommodation in Spain employs local people across hospitality, catering and maintenance, and we also work with local suppliers during the week.Wherever possible, food and drink is sourced from local producers, with an emphasis on fresh, regional and seasonal ingredients. Participants are encouraged to explore local cafés, shops and bars, helping to direct visitor spending towards independent local businesses.
The region has strong traditions in food, wine and crafts, and participants are encouraged to visit local producers and buy locally, supporting local livelihoods and regional skills.
Our final concert provides an opportunity to give something back to the community that has hosted us, with proceeds supporting a local charitable cause.
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