Step into the springtime woods and be part of one of nature's greatest enchantments: an otherworldly interspecies conversation between our wild voices and the immortal song of the Nightingale.
Time
5:30 pm - 01:00 am
(Site opens at 4:30 pm)
Price
From £135
Capacity
40 participants
Over eight weeks each spring, Singing with Nightingales hosts over thirty gatherings that guide you on an unforgettable journey into nature, culminating in a performance in complete darkness with a wild Nightingale.
This special gathering invites you to become a bit Nightingale. Participation is optional – you're welcome to simply listen – but this session opens space for vocal collaboration in the age-old dialogue between humans and Nightingales. Commencing at the earlier start time of 5:30 pm, Sam will lead a pre-evening singing circle, sharing rounds, local songs and nature-inspired improvisation techniques to ready our voices for a night of harmony and resonance.
The main part of the evening begins gathered at the fireside, where welcome drinks await. Before dusk, we’ll be led on a wander through this pristine woodland pasture to discover the rich biodiversity and birdsong of our ancient bluebell woods. Returning to the warmth of the campfire, we’ll share a two-course vegan dinner, with a selection of hot and cold drinks to suit all tastes.
As night falls, we'll share in traditional folklore, Nightingale histories, and songs before embarking on a silent, torchless walk through the darkness to find our feathered singers. Here, under a blanket of stars, you'll be guided to respectfully offer our collective voices to meet these masterful improvisers. As midnight passes, we’ll make our way back across the starry fields to the campsite and carriages.
For those staying overnight (which we recommend), the magic continues into the morning: wake to the dawn chorus, share breakfast, and gather in a reflective sharing circle to close the experience together.
Wild Voices is the only night when guests partake in our signature human-avian musical collaboration – a breathtaking interaction creating a truly unforgettable experience. No previous musical experience is required: all voices and all levels of contribution are welcome.
Please make sure you have versed yourself in the important practical information below and reviewed our comprehensive FAQs to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for you and your guests. As our events involve walking across challenging terrain at night, we kindly ask you to consider any mobility requirements within your group before booking. For a full insight into the concept and idea behind the project, please see our What is SWN page.
Your Host and Nightingale
