A week-long singing immersion on Ireland’s Beautiful Wild Atlantic Way

With Sarah Garden

Singing on the Wild Side is a week-long residential singing immersion in Donegal, on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Rooted in the Natural Voice Network approach, this singing holiday brings people together to explore harmony singing, listening, and vocal confidence in a supportive, non-judgemental environment.

Each morning we sing together in the large, light-filled singing room at the Song House, with a beautiful acoustic and views across to Muckish Mountain. Over the course of the week, participants learn a rich repertoire of harmony songs — typically up to twelve — including Irish songs, world music, rounds, original arrangements, and moments of guided improvisation. Some songs gently stretch and challenge us, while others are there simply for the joy of singing together.

This singing retreat is also deeply connected to place. Alongside the core singing work, there are opportunities to engage with the rich cultural and natural landscape of Donegal. Optional activities may include sean-nós singing with local, award-winning singers, storytelling evenings, guided walks, and time spent exploring nearby beaches, mountains, rivers, and historic sites. Singing in resonant spaces — such as ancient church ruins — is often a highlight of the week.

The group lives together in a simple, communal way, sharing breakfasts and lunches and organising evening meals collectively. This shared rhythm helps a strong sense of community to form over the week, supporting both the musical work and the wider experience of rest, connection, and renewal.

Singing on the Wild Side welcomes a wide range of singers, from total beginners to more experienced harmony singers. The only requirement is a love of singing. By the end of the week, many people leave feeling rested, grounded, musically enriched, and more deeply connected — to their voice, to others, and to this wild Atlantic landscape.