Join us in one of the world’s great musical capitals for an immersive course designed for composers eager to explore the art of writing for choir, whether a cappella or with accompaniment. This hands-on experience dives into the creative and technical aspects of choral composition, from crafting compelling openings and endings to shaping structure, text setting, and expressive word painting across both sacred and secular works.

Participants will learn directly from leading figures in the choral world while working in inspiring venues. The programme also includes a visit to a major cathedral, where you will attend the iconic Evensong service. The final three days will provide opportunities to observe Paul Mealor work with the choir that will premiere Garland for a Queen at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor as the culminating event of the week.

Whether you're refining your compositional voice or expanding into choral writing for the first time, this course offers a unique opportunity to develop your craft while experiencing London’s rich musical heritage.

Please note that this course is limited to 24 participants. 

Location to be confirmed

11:00 - 13:00

Dr Paul Mealor: Introductions and how do I start a new work, and how do I end it?

13:00 - 13:30

Lunch

13:30 - 15:30

Dr Paul Mealor and Cecilia McDowall: Creating Form & Structure in modern Choral Music

15:45 - 17:00

Cecilia McDowall: Cecilia introduces her recent works for choir

11:00 - 13:00

Dr Paul Mealor: Text Setting - How to examine and set both sacred and secular texts

13:00 - 13:30

Lunch

13:30 - 15:30

Sir Karl Jenkins discusses his life and work in conversation with Dr James Meaders (Artistic Director of Vox Anima London)

15:45 - 17:00

Sir Karl Jenkins and Dr Paul Mealor: Open discussion with participants and Q&A about working in the choral world

11:00 - 13:00

Blake Morgan discusses his life as a composer, arranger, and singer with VOCES8

13:00 - 13:30

Lunch

13:30 - 17:00

Cathedral immersion experience and attending Evensong service at a major cathedral (details to be confirmed)

17:00 - 18:00

Final questions and farewells!

Vox Anima London is truly honoured to be invited back to St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. 

Paul Mealor, conductor and composer-in-residence for this concert, leads a joyous celebration of the 80th birthday of Her Majesty, Queen Camilla. His specially composed "gift" for Her Majesty is a new four-movement choral piece titled "Garland for a Queen" which will receive its premiere performance on 21 July, 2027. Also on the programme will be the beloved Benedictus from Sir Karl Jenkins' The Armed Man with renowned cellist Guy Johnston playing the delicious obbligato line. Cecilia McDowall's Regina Coeli is included alongside Parry's I Was Glad, Zadok the Priest from Handel's Coronation Anthems, and other known and loved works! It will be an occasion fit for a birthday Queen! 

Coach transportation to and from London/Windsor Castle

Financial protection for Packages sold by Vox Anima London is provided in accordance with the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018. Vox Anima London is a bonded member of ABTOT and complies with the financial protection, bonding, operational, and consumer protection requirements established by ABTOT and applicable legislation.

The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for Vox Anima London, Membership #5703, and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for:

1. Non-flight packages

ABTOT cover provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled or repatriation if transportation was included in your package. Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Vox Anima London. 

In the unlikely event that you require assistance whilst abroad due to our financial failure, please call our 24/7 helpline on 01702 811397 and advise you are a customer of an ABTOT protected travel company.

You can access The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/634/contents/made 

You can find out more about ABTOT here: https://www.abtot.com/