International Camps
Village Harmony International camps — an overview
Village Harmony international camps—which are open to both adult and teenaged singers—always incorporate a week of rehearsal in residence at a retreat center. Participants learn the basics of new singing styles and repertoire under expert leadership, with emphasis on the cultural context and authentic vocal technique of the genres making up each session’s particular musical tapestry.
Rehearsals are long and intense—six or more hours each day—and, depending on the country, may include individual voice coaching, dance practice and folk instrument lessons between group sessions. Word-sheets and notes are used for some of the music, but nearly everything is taught by ear. We place a lot of emphasis on authenticity—understanding the spirit and vocal style of each musical genre—and on appreciating the joy of singing together and with conviction.
Even within this structure, the groups tend to be very relaxed and non-competitive, with a deliberately democratic atmosphere. And there will always be time for walks and exploring. At some point during the rehearsal week there is usually an evening cabaret, where campers are encouraged to flaunt their flair for music, stand-up comedy or random talents.
Most of these programs end with a concert performance or two. Our longer study-performance programs—like this year’s South African and Corsican camps—feature concert tours following the rehearsal periods.
Our 2026 International Winter Programs
14-day Cape Town Winter Camp
January 12-25, 2026
Led by Bongani Magatyana, Suzannah Park & Liam Kantor.
Rehearsal week at Volmoed Retreat Centre in Hermanus, Western Cape, followed by a week in residence in the Gardens district of Cape Town as we perform and explore the region.
BTW, it will be SUMMER in South Africa!
Tuition:
- $2200 in 2-person rooms
- $2700 for single room accommodations
MORE INFO
9-day Guadalajara Winter Camp
February 7-15, 2026
Led by Wilmia Verrier Quiñones, Julio Morales & Patty Cuyler.
In residence at Hotel Puerta San Pedro in Tlaquepaque. Our first program in Mexico. Join us as we study traditional and composed Mexican works with two amazing directors, collaborate with exciting local ensembles, and enjoy the local culture, arts, cuisine and weather.
Tuition:
- $1600 in 2-person rooms
- $2000 for single room accommodations
MORE INFO
Our 2026 International Summer Programs
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until we’ve hit capacity in each of these program. Sign up as soon as you know you want to join us.
Occitan Week in Haute Provence, France
June 7-13, 2026
Led by Brendan Taaffe, Karine Berny, Audrey Peinado & Lorenzo Valera. Luxury accommodations and gourmet meals at the Monastère de Segries outside Moustiers-St-Marie.
Tuition:
- $1600 (in a 3-person room)
- $1745 (in 2-person room)
- $2010 (single room accommodations)
Corsica Camp
June 16-July 4, 2026
Led by Patty Cuyler & Carl Linich, with Jean-Etienne Langianni, Frederic Vesperini & Cathy Graziani. A 10-day rehearsal period in Canari in Cap Corse followed by a weeklong tour of the island with concerts and sightseeing. We will be self-catering, sharing cooking & cleaning under a head cook, while in Canari.
Tuition:
- $2500 (in a 2-person room)
- $3000 (single room accommodations)
Quebec Week
June 21-28, 2026
A non-residential day camp led by Mary Cay Brass, Nicholas Williams & Lonnie Norwood, set in North Hatley, Quebec. Opening night features a dance party with the internationally renowned québécois folk trio, Genticorum.
Tuition: $700
Enjoy a glimpse behind the scenes of three of our international camps with these short documentaries by VH alumna Tikkio Freilich.
