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CHORAL RETREAT

The BIIMA Choral Retreat will provide an authentic and unforgettable cultural immersion in Breno, Italy for the active amateur choral musician. Choristers will spend two weeks living in the Italian Alps learning the language, developing musicianship and vocal technique, rehearsing repertoire, performing for local audiences, taking in performances, and making life-long connections and memories with fellow travellers and singers.

In addition to daily free time to explore, we will enjoy an excursion to a local winery and travel to fair Verona to see an opera performed in the ancient outdoor amphitheater. Our team of professional musicians and music educators will provide daily classes, workshops, and rehearsals that will develop all levels of choral musicians while still leaving lots of time for everyone to enjoy all that Northern Italy in July can provide.

Bring your choral skills to a new level.

Each participant will enjoy:

  • Daily choral rehearsals led by conductor Lee Carter
  • Group coaching sessions with the distinguished BIIMA faculty
  • Public performances featuring the repertoire developed during the retreat
  • Delicious home-cooked meals 
  • Curated excursions, as detailed below:.

Opera Night in Verona

Enjoy free time exploring Verona’s enchanting streets before taking your seat inside the historic Arena di Verona. Experience a world-class opera under the stars—an unforgettable highlight of the retreat.

Learn more about the Arena Opera Festival in Verona. 

Ca’ del Bosco Wine Tour 

Immerse yourself in the elegance of Ca’ del Bosco with a guided tour through its renowned vineyards, artistic cellars, and exquisite Franciacorta tastings. A refined and sensory journey through one of Italy’s finest wine estates.

Visit the Winery’s Website.

Concert in Brescia

Experience the glorious renaissance paintings inside that will enhance your performance of our sacred choral repertoire. The BIIMA 

Discover the rich history of Brescia and take part in a special choral performance inside a beautiful local church—an inspiring moment shared with the surrounding community.

Bus will take you to Brescia in the early afternoon, providing time for a glimpse of this famous city before your evening performance.

Learn More About Brescia

Accommodations

Participants may select double or single occupancy accommodations at:

Fees & Inclusions

Retreat fee: $5,400 CAD

All fees are non-refundable, but fully transferable.

Your retreat fee includes:

  • Room and board (double occupancy at the Ostello Castello; upgrade options available)
  • All training sessions and program instruction
  • Round-trip BIIMA Bus transportation between Malpensa Airport and the Academy
    • Participants are responsible for arranging flights and travel to arrive in time for the outbound bus
  • Three curated excursions listed above