Smallpipes, Song & Mixed Instruments 2025 at Pitcalzean House

Smallpipers, Singers & Mixed Instruments 2025 ~ there's something for everyone here!

Who is this for?

Welcoming all intermediate fiddlers and smallpipe players. Mixed Instrument class is intended for advanced players as the focus will be on arrangement. We are inviting confident, experienced singers as the focus will also be on arrangement so you need to be willing to come in full voice.

Starting with a welcome dinner on 11th March, followed by 3.5 days teaching and lots of evening tunes, songs and ceilidhs, fine food and mighty craic.

Who is teaching?

Our confirmed tutors so far are Mhairi Hall (Mixed Instruments), Siobahn Miller (Song) and Fin Moore (Smallpipes).

There are 10 places for pipers, 11 places for singers, 8 places for mixed instruments and 2 subsidised places for people under the age of 24 who are currently in education.

What about food?

There will be fine food prepared by Far North Chef, Ross Ainslie, no stranger to the Scottish Traditional music scene. We eat our meals together every day which gives a super community feel to our events.

Tell me more!

An epic location and mighty craic as always. Expect a fully immersive experience with endless music for the entire duration of your retreat. If you play another instrument but want to be in a pipe or fiddle led class you are also welcome but there will not be specific tuition on your particular instrument. All teaching is by ear, with follow up manuscript and audio files.

How much does it cost and are there any concessions?

£340 -covers all tuition, lunches, dinner & refreshments (BYOB). Payment by BACs in instalments. A deposit of £120 required shortly after booking with balance payments of £120 in August & £100 in October.

Students - we would like you to show committment to this event by paying a deposit of £25 and balance payment later in the year of £75 but we will cover the rest and provide a dorm room for you to sleep in. To apply for a subsidised place please email farnorthretreats@gmail.com to explain how you would benefit from attending this retreat.

What's the cancellation policy?

In order for us to commit to the venue the initial deposit payment is completely non-refundable. In the event of cancellation the balance payments of £220 will only be refunded if your place can be transferred to someone else.

What about accommodation?

This needs to be booked separately - there are options onsite at various prices with priority given to those prepared to share a room. More information about accommodation will be sent shortly after registration but two-thirds of participants stayed onsite in 2024.

We are so delighted to be offering this event again and are so looking forward to meeting old friends and making new ones!