Are you a passionate singer who dreams of an enchanting dive into the world of polyphony? Then the Summerschool is your chance to be part of a unique musical adventure! This course for advanced amateurs and young-professional singers takes place in Antwerp from 25 till 31 August during the festival Laus Polyphoniae.
Cantate Domino Canticum Novum
Throughout history, artists have proudly declared the invention of a “new” art. From the groundbreaking notational innovations of Medieval music to the elegant designs of Art Nouveau, that which is new has always been exciting. In 2025, inspired by the festival Laus Polyphoniae theme of Ars Antica/Nova/Subtilior, Cappella Pratensis’ annual Summerschool invites you to explore the rich background of cultural exchange that sparked some of the most exciting innovations in Medieval and Renaissance music. As musicians travelled far and wide – serving as diplomats, messengers, and even spies – new musica ideas spread like wildfire!
This year’s program features works by composers such as Guillaume de Machaut, John Dunstable, Guillaume Du Fay, and Adrian Willaert, offering a wide variety of music from this fascinating era. Led by members of the Gramophone Award-winning ensemble Cappella Pratensis, participants should expect to immerse themselves in the theory and practices of the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. Highlights include historical solfège, the Guidonian Hand, techniques of improvisation and composition, and singing directly from original notation. The week-long course concludes with an unforgettable performance as part of the festival programme, alongside members of Cappella Pratensis.
During a week of intense sessions led by internationally renowned experts from Cappella Pratensis, you will immerse yourself in Gregorian chant and polyphony, working directly from facsimiles of the original manuscripts and printed editions. The week includes intensive sessions on the art of mensural notation
An initiative by Musica Impulse Centre, Cappella Pratensis and AMUZ, Festival of Flanders – Antwerp.
For whom
Advanced amateurs and young-professional singers, looking for deepening and artistic growth.
Cost
300 euros, including a selection of concert tickets for Laus Polyphoniae. Accommodation is available in every price category, including an excellent youth hostel nearby and a wide variety of hotels.
