Summer is a perfect time for getting out of old routines and devoting time to music. New England holds some special retreats that offer programs where choral singers can get away for a week or more to focus and learn; elsewhere, singers take advantage of summer freedom to rehearse and perform a special choral work. Many choruses open their doors to the public to host “summer sings,” where participants sing a masterwork in a single session under expert direction, and often with professional soloists— a perfect way to participate in great music with a minimum commitment.

We have updated our compilation of summer programs of particular interest to New England choral singers. The listing is organized by category:

1. Residential: Generally lasting for an extended time and where many participants live on-site;
2. Single concert: A program that focuses on a single concert (though there may be several performances of the material);
3. Summer Sings: Show up, rehearse, and perform all at once—no experience necessary, and often sheet music is provided;
4. Educational: Primarily for students or to train educators.

Within each category, programs are listed alphabetically by state.

Residential and educational programs are typically announced early and have relatively edarlyu deadlines: sign up now! Summer sings are often announced later, and new ones might appear even as late as mid-summer. If you're looking for possible later-summer options, you might check listings from previous years, which are archived on our site (see the "Past Years" links in the right column of the Summer Programs page).

The latest and most complete information about each program can be found by following the link or the contact information provided in the listing. Performances associated with the programs (as well as other choral performances of all kinds) can be found in our online choral calendar.

We welcome news of programs not contained in the listing, and will be happy to add them to the list. Contact us at editor@choralarts-newengland.org.