Courses in 2026

Guiaes, nr Vila Real, Douro region, Portugal

Course 1  April 25th – May 1st    6 nights.  

( Course 2 will be from May 1st if Course 1 becomes full )

nearest airport is Porto, which is served daily by many international carriers and then share a rental car with others for the 70 minute drive to the estate. 

A Musical Retreat for Players, Partners and Friends.

April 25th. Arrive from 16.00

until

May 1st. Depart after an early 8.00 breakfast 

6 nights 

Join us at this stunning property, which is set in a working vineyard with unique and spectacular views over the Douro region …

The entire house is ours to enjoy and has been recently refurbished so that 10 ensuite bedrooms/bathrooms, as well as various living, dining and rehearsal spaces, fitness room and an outdoor pool are offered.

Everything is included.

Off street, secure parking

Wifi throughout the house

Towels and bed linen from Zara Home also provided

Schedule

Arrive after 16.00 on 25th April to settle in and have tea/coffee/wine snacks. Playing session at 18.00 and then dinner at 19.30. 

 Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 

Breakfast at 8.45

Session 9.30 until 12.30  

Light Lunch at 1.00

Free afternoon

Playing session at 16.30 

Evening soiree at 18.30 

Dinner at 19.45 

Except Tuesday 

Breakfast at 8.45

Session 9.30 – 11.30 

Free for the rest of the day to explore 

Session at 17.30 

Dinner at 19.45 

Playing 

All levels of players are welcome and Nick writes the parts to suit. 

We will aim to do both clarinet and saxophone ensembles and mixed group work, too.

Please bring a solo or two to play at our informal soiree each day. We will have the keyboard with us.

Food

Creative cooking is our signature style so mealtimes are to be looked forward to and enjoyed! 

Breakfast : Cereal, Yoghurt, Fruit, Toast etc. 

A light Lunch of soup, bread and cheese

Full Evening Meal 

 Coffees & Teas etc. available throughout the day.

Vila Real is the local large university town and home to major supermarkets such as Lidl, Aldi, Intermarche, Spar and a Leclerc hypermarket. 

Booking Form 

Church Stretton, Shropshire 

October 16th – 19th and 19th – 22nd

Train station nearby 

Start time 18.00   End Time 11.30 after a final session

Stay in this characterful house within walking distance of the town centre. 

Single, Double or twin accommodation with Full Board 

All rooms ensuite or with private bathroom next door. 

Course 1

October 16th – 19th

321 ensembles/workshop sessions and solos (if you wish) with Julie playing/ leading

Course 2 

October 19th – 22nd

4321 ensembles/workshop sessions and solos (if you wish) with Julie playing/ leading

Stay in this characterful house within walking distance of the town centre. 

Single, Double or Twin accommodation with Full Board 

All rooms ensuite or with private bathroom next door. 

Start Time 18.00.   End Time 11.30 after a final session

Booking Form