The Beauchamp Early Music Course is a practical, creative and social experience for adult amateur musicians. Every summer, enthusiasts from the UK and well beyond come together for a week of music-making in the beautiful surroundings of the Malvern Hills.

Led by Musical Director David Hatcher and Choral Director David Allinson, the course offers an opportunity to explore a wide range of early music through a combination of instrumental and choral sessions — and the famous evening tuttis!

Focusing on Renaissance and early Baroque repertoire, participants sing and play some of the greatest music written in the 16th and 17th centuries — from polyphonic gems by the likes of Josquin, Byrd and Victoria to monumental polychoral masterpieces by composers such as Gabrieli, Schütz and Praetorius.

The programme is shaped around the instruments and voices of those attending, allowing participants to take an individual path through each day's music-making, balancing their preferences as a singer or player. A typical day involves four sessions in ensembles of varying sizes and combinations, each presenting distinct challenges and rewards. 

The Beauchamp courses began in the 1980s and have built up a strong tradition for high quality specialised coaching in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. While a decent level of technical competence and sight-reading confidence are required, the main ingredients for a great Beauchamp Week are curiosity, humour, a collaborative spirit and a desire to exceed your musical expectations.