Autumn Harmony Gathering - Folk Songs, Community & Woodland Magic in the Forest of Dean

Join us in the heart of the Forest of Dean for a joyful weekend of uplifting harmony, fresh woodland air, and voices rising together beneath the autumn trees. This retreat is open to all — whether you sing regularly or simply love to sing in the shower. No experience needed, just a willingness to join in, breathe deeply, and be part of something vibrant, grounding, and alive.

Over the weekend we’ll explore rich and accessible folk and community songs in three- and four-part harmony, alongside playful circle singing, gentle sound bathing, and non-exposing group improvisation games designed to build confidence and connection. On Saturday evening we’ll gather around the campfire for a relaxed singaround — you’re warmly invited to bring a song to share, whether it’s something with a chorus to join in, a simple round, or a song for listening. (If that feels a little daunting, support is always available — we aim to create a space that feels safe, encouraging and welcoming for everyone.)

There will also be time to wander among the trees, rest, and enjoy good food together. This year, our main meals will be prepared for us, with everyone chipping in for salads and clearing up — keeping the retreat affordable while allowing more spaciousness for singing, connection, and relaxation. All genders and all voices are warmly welcomed — come as you are and leave feeling uplifted, refreshed, and fully alive.

If this sounds like your kind of weekend, we would love for you to join us. Come and be part of a powerful gathering of voices in the autumn forest — book your place and add your voice to the song.

**About the Facilitators: **

Your weekend will be guided by experienced, heart-led facilitators who are deeply committed to creating spaces where everyone feels safe, welcomed and able to sing freely.

Pearl Legay-Clarke is an experienced choir leader, workshop facilitator and vocal improviser, known for her warm, inclusive and confidence-building approach. She runs Stroud Folk Choir and Sing Ahoy Folk Choir, and brings her uplifting workshops to festivals including Shambala, Land Skills Fair, Fire in the Mountain and ORFC.

In recent years, Pearl has immersed herself in collaborative vocal improvisation, studying with Briony Greenhill — one of the pioneers bringing this approach to the UK from the United States, where she trained with Bobby McFerrin and Rhiannon. What this means for you is a space that feels playful, accessible and non-intimidating — where harmonies grow naturally, risks feel supported, and even first-time improvisers can discover new confidence in their voices.

Pearl is also one third of the trio The Crooked Penny, who sing folk-inspired songs with haunting harmonies and a feminist twist. At the heart of all her work is a simple intention: helping people experience the joy, connection and power of singing together.

This year, Brigite Rowan joins the retreat to offer gentle morning yoga and support within some of the voice sessions — bringing a grounded, body-based dimension to the weekend.

As a folk singer-songwriter and trauma-informed voice, yoga and eco-somatics guide, Brigite’s work centres on helping people feel safe in their bodies and connected to the natural world. She weaves together voice work, earth-based spirituality, non-dual Shiva Tantra and practical land skills to create spaces that are steady, nourishing and inclusive. Her presence helps ensure that the retreat is not just energising, but also deeply supportive — so you can open your voice with confidence and ease.

Together, they create a weekend that is joyful, skilful and welcoming — whether you are an experienced singer or just beginning to explore your voice.

**Accommodation: **

The Wilderness Centre has dorms of 4-8 people in bunks. Most people will stay in these but if you'd really like your own room and there are enough people who'd like to do this then we can book a nearby cottage for an extra £100-120 per person, please indicate on the form whether you'd prefer this option.

The Wilderness Centre, Wysis Way, Plump Hill, Mitcheldean GL17 0HA

Food:

We will eat vegetarian food which is included in the price of the weekend. Diet choices, intolerance and allergies will be catered for as much as possible, so please let me know on the form if you have any specific needs. We will take turns to help out with food prep and clean up and we'll have a sign up rota on the weekend. This is intended to keep the costs accessible.

Costs:
Low cost - £145
Standard - £175
Supporter - £200
Own Space - Additional £120 per person approx (This year I will put you together with others who would like their own room to book a space for yourselves).
Saturday (Including campfire) - £65

*Discount available for Stroud Folk Choir, Sing Ahoy and Harmony Tree members.

The Timetable:

*This is approximate and may change a little in the lead up to the weekend or on the days in response to weather, or if we feel like we need more time for some things and less for others

Friday :
16:30 - 18.30 Arrivals
18:30 - 19.30 Dinner
20.00 - 21.30 Opening Circle - Getting to know each other, a few songs and ease ourselves in and settle into our weekend together

Saturday
7:45 - 8:45 Yoga with Brigite
8.45 - 9:45. Breakfast
10.00 - 12:50 Warm up and singing games
13.00 - 14.30 Lunch and optional walk
15.00 - 17.00 Learning Songs (with tea & cake break)
17:00 - 17.30 Reflections and check ins
18:30 - 19.30. Dinner
19.30 - Late Campfire Sing Around (The fire pit is sheltered so we should be able to use it regardless of the weather).

Sunday
7.45 - 8.45 Yoga with Brigite
8.45 - 10.30 Breakfast and empty rooms
10.00 - 13.00 Sound Bathing, Singing and Closing Circle
13.00 - 15.00 Optional picnic lunch and walk in the Forest (Weather dependant)

Other :

My 18 month old son will be around during the retreat and his Dad and Grandma will be on hand to have him. There may also be one or two other small children around (family members) but they will only be in the space if they are not disrupting the singing.

There is also some van space available so if you'd like to bring your van then please get in contact and I can adjust the price.

Dogs are welcome on site but please do be in touch to discuss whether it would be appropriate for your dog to come along. There have previously been a couple of well-behaved dogs at the retreat, and we have made sure those who aren't comfortable with dogs are cared for.

Please email withonevoiceuk@gmail.com if you have any questions.