Workshops Programme 2016

Powerful, deep and earthy. Come and learn some Samba Reggae rhythms fuelled with the sun, energy and Vibe of Brazil! The Bahian beats will take you to Salvador, Bahia known as Brazil’s ‘capital of happiness

Learn to play enticing rhythms on bodhrans and sacred drums for use in meditations, ritual and music sessions. These light hearted, informative workshops teach the basics of drumming, and through practice develop the skills to play in music sessions or for working in sacred spaces.

These workshops will be a journey into the techniques used in “Nyabinghi drumming and chanting”. Nyabinghi music is heavily rooted in the Rastafarian community in Jamaica and has influenced Ska, Reggae and dance hall. The way that drum rhythm, sound, tone, pattern and songs fit together will be explored. The origins of this tradition are very spiritual and can take listeners and players to another level. These workshops are sure to be an enjoyable experience!

Baba Adesose will deliver workshops on the wonderful rhythms of West Africa’s Talking Drum.Countries such as Nigeria, Gambia, Mali and Guinea, all have talking drums in their rhythms and though the drum may change aesthetically depending on the tradition, there is a commonality in the technique of playing.

As one of our long standing dance teachers we are very excited that Nii Tagoe will be back teaching Ghanaian Dance. Classes will deepen participants knowledge of African dances and rhythms, demonstrating the complex relationships between drummers and dancers - thus encouraging understanding, respect and enjoyment of African dance, music and culture.

Come and try this exciting dance for everyone, with all its passion, fun and feeling. You will be inmersed in the unique music, played by spain’s own Salvador Andrades (flamenco guitarrist) and song. Felipe de Algeciras will take you to another world where you will transmit all your feelings and musicality with the percussion of your feet and the movement of your body. You will be transformed beyond your limits.

Mariana is back teaching two dance classes this year Samba reggae: Let your energy burst with joy via the powerful sound of samba reggae, the steps and movements shall be the tool for you to connect with each beat of it. Shake, smile and sweat away! Carimbo: Imagine you are a flower, or a flame that through the beautiful flow of the floral skirts, will give your hips and spins an amazing silhouette to match the bliss that this rhythm gifts us with. First time in UK, the rhythm from Para ( North of Brazil) is brought to a Festival in UK and yes up to 25 skirts provided! As a couple and group dance we welcome keen male to join and enjoy these sessions with us!

Ocean’s Street dance class led to an electric performance as last year’s summer school. This year he will be teaching intermediate level Street dance featuring 3 different routines and free-styling. Ocean’s infectious and energetic class is not to be missed.

Aida and Batch will be joining forces to teach two West African dancing styles. Respectively focusing on the male and female styles of these dances, these workshop will delve into the rich cultural worlds of each style.

Joining us for the first time Kieran’s workshop will be an insight into Hip Hop dance giving students the chance to learn moves and grooves whilst also giving them tools, drills and concepts to takeaway and use by themselves to grow as a dancer and performer.

A Dance and drum workshop based on traditional Egyptian Martial art of Tahtib (stick Fighting) and its accompanying rhythms (sticks provided).

Singing is for EVERYONE. We can all do it. Sometimes we need a little encouragement and friends around us to help. Yvette’s teaching style is totally inclusive, no words or music, just watch and listen and copy - simples! Lots of harmony and lots of laughter and maybe a few tears. Bring your family, bring your friends and come and join the bestest Doris Choir ever.

Camilo is well loved amongst the Doris family. Not only is he one of the smiliest people he is also a top notch teacher who shares his love and joy of music around the country. His infectious energy will guide you through the rich sounds of Latin American song in this incredibly enjoyable workshop.

When you embrace the voice you have – you can work towards the voice you want. Explore, enhance and discover the voice you have as well as working with others to create beautiful tapestries of soulful music. Your Voice - is about encouraging individuals to express themselves vocally in the truest form. Through relaxed yet focused guidance, singers will have the space to develop their artistry and confidence. Learn exciting, uplifting songs from around the globe including African Gospel/Spirituals, Original Compositions, Classic Soul & Jazz Songs plus more.

Come and join Cecilia in an immersive and inspirational singing workshop. Cecilia’s engaging personality and musical talent will give you an insight into the musical and cultural traditions of an often misunderstood country. Using the traditional Zimbabwean mbira and voice you will be guided to learn songs that have been sung in Zimbabwe for generations.

Ben Lawrence will be teaching the basics of African music using the mesmerising wooden xylophone/balafon. With over 25 years experience Ben aims to set people at easy, allowing them to play, enjoy and feel the music.

The most ancient of wind instruments, developed by the indigenous people of Australia, the didgeridoo creates an exciting and ambient earthy sound. Pete Appleton has been playing for 18 years and is skilled at getting players started and teaching and playing at an advanced level. Dare to be different and learn to didge!!

Open to all ages and abilities (no experience needed). This workshops is an opportunity for participants to use any musical instrument of their choice. The activities will focus on writing original music, working in different groups, music structure and preparation for live performance. By the end, the participants will be lifted in team spirit confidence and ability to performance live.

An introduction to Sufi Whirling Dance, Song, Ceremony. Sheikh Ahmad Dede enables all who come to experience how to open themselves from within through the connection of divinely love from heart to heart. This workshop explores the sufi philosophy through whirling meditation.

This is a fresh, fast vinyasa flow to complement (or replace!) a cup of coffee, warm your muscles, and get you going for the day. Appropriate for all levels.

‘Ra’ meaning ‘Light’. To feel lightweight and bright through movement and breath. Inspired by mental wellbeing, and the joy of contrast.

Matt is an engaging and energetic teacher whose workshops will help you bring awareness to your body and identify restrictions in your own movement which you can gently challenge to strengthen and realign your body. These workshops will include a general warm-up, a focus on specific areas of the body, before finishing with a dynamic series of exercises. Workshop places will be limited to 12 spaces so they are interactive and individual attention can be given.

Start the morning in this calming and meditative movement class.

Drug-free LSD: laugh sing dance and play - use your body, heart, voice and mind and soul to come alive, connect and FEEL GREAT. You are wonderful, just come and be more wonderful.

Dru Yoga is a graceful and potent form of yoga, based on flowing movements, directed breathing and visualisation. Dru Yoga uses Energy Block Release Sequences designed to give you the potential to bring you closer to a point of relaxation, poise and infinite strength that we all have within. Expect lively movements, laughter and stillness all in one class.

A guided practice in Partner Yoga and Thai massage. Come to wind down and soothe aching muscles with this nourishing and heart connecting practice. By working in pairs (Come with a friend or make a new one) we can support each other to drop deeper into our bodies, relax and release tension and blockages in the meridians ( energy channels).