Return to Ljubljana
- 12 April to 19 April 2026Directed By David Ogden
Introduction
We are very happy to be returning to Europe's smallest and greenest capital - its been too long
Ljubljana is unusual among European capitals in how deliberately it has been shaped. Much of the centre reflects the ideas of architect Jože Plečnik, whose work links classical forms with modern civic life — bridges, markets, libraries and riverside spaces designed to be used rather than simply admired. This gives the city a sense of purpose and coherence that is felt day to day.
For visitors, Ljubljana offers a lived-in cultural environment rather than a sightseeing checklist. The central market, cafés along the Ljubljanica, and evening concerts and events are part of everyday life, not added on for visitors and - so far - there are still quiet cafes to visit and and interesting corners to explore in peace.
The course runs from Sunday evening, when we meet for dinner, to the following Sunday morning with a final concert on the Saturday night. Slovenia has some of the largest and most exciting underground caves and we will have an opportunity to visit the most famous of these - Postojna - during our Thursday half day. Full details of this optional day trip will be sent to all participants later this year.
Who is the course for?
This course is for experienced singers who want to improve their choral technique and enjoy exploring a rich mix of repertoire in a convivial social setting. Music will be sent out in advance and, while nobody is expected to be note perfect on arrival, we do expect singers to familiarise themselves with the music beforehand. This is not a course for beginners but anyone who has been singing regularly in a choral society or church choir is unlikely to feel out of their depth.
Our singing holidays have proved equally popular with people travelling on their own and singing couples. We all eat together most evenings in a selection of different restaurants where everyone will soon get to know each other.
Musical Director
David Ogden is a professional conductor and composer. He conducts Exultate Singers, City of Bristol Choir, choirs at the Royal Mail, Airbus and Sawday's…
MUSIC LIST
God so loved the world – John Stainer
Locus iste – Anton Bruckner
This joyful Eastertide – Traditional arr Charles Wood
Love is come again – Traditional arr Martin Shaw
Hilariter – German Traditional arr Martin Shaw
Surrexit pastor bonus – Orlando Lassus
Alleluia – Randall Thompson
O lux beata Trinitas – Andrej Makor
Maria Magdalene e altera Maria – Andrea Gabrieli
Surrexit Dominus de sepulcro – Jacob Handl (Gallus)
The Call – Gail Randall
In nomine Jesu – Jacob Handl (Gallus)
Were you there? – Traditional arr David Ogden
Away with gloom, away with doubt – Barry Ferguson
Marija, mati ljublijena – Traditional Slovenian
We will be staying at the friendly City Hotel - where we stayed in previous years. It has a comfy music-free Bar and staff wwho make you feel at home. It is also located close to our rehearsal room, the largely pedestrianised Old Town and the Franciscan Church where we will perform our Saturday night concert.
This bit is up to you and is not included in the price of the week. Most people will choose to fly directly to Ljubljana from Gatwick but there are other non-direct options.
The course fee is payable in two stages - a deposit of £295 and a further payment of £1145 no later than eight weeks before the course commences . This covers tuition, seven nights accommodation with breakfast (based on two sharing) and four 3-course evening meals. The single occupancy supplement is £35 per night. Music - which can be kept - will cost £35 and is sent out six-eight weeks in advance. Non-singers sharing a singer's room pay a reduced fee of £995.
Holiday insurance
All participants are advised to have appropriate holiday insurance in place and notify RBS of the policy provider.
Any questions?
If you have any questions at all please contact Nick Couchman (nick@runbysingers.org) or Emma Ford (emma@runbysingers.org) or ring us during office hours on 01462 372702. The office is not always occupied so please do leave a message and we will get back to you.
