12–19 September 2027 | Finca Ará Oko, Andalucía, Southern Spain
A week of Afro-Cuban singing, rhythm and musical exchange in the beautiful mountains of La Alpujarra
Join Bombo Productions for a seven-night singing retreat at Finca Ará Oko, our ancient off-grid farmhouse in the mountains of southern Spain, with spectacular views towards the Mediterranean Sea.
Drawing on the repertoire and musical approach of Coro de Clave, our choir based in London and Spain, the retreat provides opportunities for ensemble singing and individual vocal development. You’ll learn beautiful Cuban folkloric songs arranged in three- and four-part harmonies, while developing your understanding of Afro-Cuban rhythms and vocal traditions.
Whether you’re an experienced singer or relatively new to Afro-Cuban music, the retreat offers an opportunity to develop your voice, explore new repertoire and enjoy making music together in a relaxed and supportive environment.
The Singing Programme
Our five-day programme combines ensemble singing, vocal development and rhythmic training, drawing on traditional Afro-Cuban repertoire.
Throughout the week, we will explore:
- Cuban folkloric songs arranged in three- and four-part harmonies
- Vocal technique, breathing exercises and warm-ups
- Rhythmic exercises and an understanding of Afro-Cuban musical structures
- Ensemble singing, listening and musical communication
- Individual vocal development and feedback
- Informal opportunities to sing and practise together
Our teaching approach is practical, inclusive and rooted in the oral traditions through which Afro-Cuban music has been transmitted across generations.
Singing with Our Local Choir
One of the special features of the 2027 retreat will be an opportunity to collaborate with our local choir in La Alpujarra.
During the week, we will travel to a nearby village to sing alongside members of the choir, sharing songs and enjoying a musical exchange with the local community.
Rather than preparing for a formal performance, our emphasis will be on musical exploration, collaboration and the shared experience of singing together.
Meet Your Tutors
The retreat is led by Vicky Jassey and David Pattman, who bring many years of experience performing, researching and teaching Afro-Cuban music.
Find out more about your tutors:
A Beautiful Setting for Music
The retreat takes place at Finca Ará Oko, an ancient Andalusian farmhouse set high in the mountains of La Alpujarra.
Our retreats are deliberately small, creating a welcoming, informal atmosphere where participants can develop their musical skills, relax and enjoy spending time together.
Your stay includes seven nights’ accommodation, three delicious home-cooked meals each day and five days of singing workshops.
There is also plenty of time to relax by the plunge pool, explore the surrounding countryside or simply enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery.
For photographs of the accommodation, facilities and surroundings, visit the Finca Ará Oko website.
What Our Participants Say
“Rehearsing with some of the local choir was such a treat and made me feel much more connected to the place, while also meeting wonderful people and learning the songs more quickly.
David and Vicky are excellent teachers, and I can wholeheartedly recommend their amazing setup. A truly special experience!”
— Mettje, Afro-Cuban Singing Retreat 2026
Retreat Prices, Early Bird Offer & Payment Information
Book by 1 April 2027 and save £50 on your retreat accommodation. Standard prices apply from 2 April 2027.
A £150 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your place. The remaining balance is due six weeks before the retreat begins, by 1 August 2027.
Please read our Retreat Cancellation Policy and Participation Guide before booking.
Register for the Retreat
To register for the Afro-Cuban Singing Retreat, please visit the Finca Ará Oko retreat page using the link below.
IMPORTANT: You will be directed to our Finca Ara Oko Website. Once you have opened the page, please scroll down to the bottom to find and complete the retreat registration form.
VIEW RETREAT DETAILS & REGISTER HERE
We look forward to welcoming you to Finca Ará Oko for a wonderful week of singing, music and friendship in the mountains of southern Spain.
