Course - - Summer 2025
MMFL Vocal Retreat on Madeline Island: Aug 11-15
MacPhail Music for Life
Vocal Retreat on Madeline Island
Our 5-day retreat will offer the opportunity to explore your own instrument – your voice – in a serene and uplifting environment. Join other active adults 55+ to take time to focus on your vocal development in a supportive setting where you will have encouragement from both professional teaching artists and peers and take advantage of Madeline Island’s many opportunities to hike, bike, and explore!
Experience the joy of making music together and being part of a musical community!
What to Expect
Each day offers an opportunity for a variety of musical experiences including vocal warmups, vocal technique, group ensemble singing and masterclasses.
- Participants are encouraged to bring a solo piece to work on in two 30-minute private coaching sessions.
- In the daily masterclasses, individuals will have the opportunity to present their solo for feedback from instructors and peers in a supportive, empowering environment.
- Feeling intimidated about performing solo? There’s plenty to be gained from participating in the group ensemble and observing the masterclasses if you don’t feel comfortable singing alone.
- Be prepared for laughter and fun as we push the envelope exploring singing and vocal delivery, preparation and emotional interpretation to deliver a memorable performance that will convey the meaning of the music through integrated performance practice.
Structured sessions will be blended with blocks of free time that will allow participants the opportunity for solo practice, or to take time to explore the island! Buildings are a walkable or bike-able distance from town, or you can sign up for shuttle service to designated destinations to take advantage of hiking, shopping or dining out.
Sample Schedule
8:00-9:00 Breakfast
9:00-9:30 Warm-ups
9:30-10:30 Vocal Pedagogy Class
10:30-noon Group Ensemble rehearsal
Noon-1:00 Lunch
1:00-3:00 Vocal Masterclass
3:00-5:30 Free Time/Private Coaching sessions
5:30-7:00 Dinner
Here’s what former participants had to say:
- My favorite part of the experience was getting to know people of my own age who are very active in continuing their love of music, like me. There are so many talented older people who enjoy singing and performing.
- It was fun and non-threatening!
- The feedback was positive and constructive. These three (instructors) are clearly experts in this field, able to accommodate all skill levels.
- I have nothing but admiration & appreciation for each instructor’s approach, expertise, flexibility and personal interest in each individual – meeting each singer at her/his level of talent, comfort-level & encouraging progress tailored to the student’s immediate situation.
- The masterclasses were fabulous. Wonderful to see all the ranges of ability and kindness, yet true critiques of coaches. Surprised also, by other people’s expression.
- I learned a better way to use my voice – in 20 minutes! Miraculous!
- I learned so much from all three teachers. They are amazing and I feel blessed to have this experience.
Accommodations
Boarding is available in the MacPhail on Madeline Island lodges. These buildings feature screened porches, lounges, and kitchenettes. This year, each participant choosing to stay in lodge accommodations will be assigned their own private room. Rooms are equipped with shelving, wardrobes, and air conditioning. The lodges feature two levels; the second floor is accessible by stairway only, so please note any mobility limitations upon registration. Communal bathrooms on each floor have shared sinks outside the restroom area, and a walk-in shower, sink and toilet that are housed in a separate room that is secured with a door.
Please note that there are three separate locations for activities. Dorms & practice rooms/small ensemble spaces are grouped together in one location, and the dining hall and performance space are in separate locations. Depending on an individual’s stamina, transportation may be required between the various sites. Basic shuttle service will be provided between sites as necessary.
Food
This summer we have partnered with WOLFoods for an enhanced dining experience. The menu features entirely home-style, from-scratch cooking. Personalized options offer options for specialized diets including, but not limited to, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan, or persons with food allergies/sensitivities.
Transportation
PLEASE NOTE: Participants are responsible for their own transportation to & from the institute (including the fee for the ferry).
We will offer an optional transportation package that includes a charter coach bus to/from the island. The coach bus is a 56-passenger premium Landline motor coach equipped with free Wi-Fi & entertainment, in-seat power, extra leg room, premium leather reclining seating, and onboard lavatory with plenty of storage for luggage. A boxed lunch will also be provided for the trip to the island. A smaller passenger van will be available for shuttle service on-island throughout the week.
Cost
All Inclusive: $1,500 (includes programming, housing & meals — but NOT transportation)
***Register by May 1 for a $75 early bird discount!
Program Only: $650
Meals Add-On: $500
Partner/Companion Lodging: $350
Transportation Add-On: TBA
Registration Deadline
Early Bird Discount ($75 off) if registered for All Inclusive by May 1.
Final registration deadline June 1.
Cancellation Policy
A 100% refund will be issued if a written (or email) cancellation notice is issued prior to June 1, 2025. After the June 1, 2025, registration deadline, no refunds will be issued.
August 11-15 on Madeline Island
Course Details
Semester: | Summer 2025 |
---|---|
Register by: | 2025-06-01 |
Starts: | 2025-08-11 |
Ends: | 2025-08-15 |
Age Range: | 55+ years |
Course Type: | Course Package |
Department: | Music for Life |
Program Method: | MacPhail Music For Life 55+ |
Categories: | Camps, 55+ Music for Life Offerings |
Programs: | MacPhail Music for Life, MacPhail on Madeline Island |
Topic: | Music Appreciation |
Instrument: | Voice |