The Beyond Vocals Jazz Summer Course in Izola, Slovenia
August 10-17, 2025
Early Bird Deadline April 1st
Escape to the most enchanting town in the world and join a community of like-minded singers and professional jazz musicians for an unforgettable week. Dive into daily vocal classes, workshops, jam sessions, and live concerts in an atmosphere brimming with musical inspiration.
Our carefully curated course, limited to 18 singers, is designed to propel participants forward in their musical journey, whether they're seasoned professionals or just starting out.
At the core of our program is a focus on equipping singers with the skills to excel as musicians and bandleaders, while enhancing their vocal abilities. Explore both standard and contemporary jazz repertoire, deepening your understanding of the jazz approach along the way.
Expect a carefully orchestrated week featuring a diverse array of masterclasses, workshops, and regular performance opportunities. As a student, you'll have the chance to learn from and collaborate with highly acclaimed jazz musicians, ensuring an enriching and transformative musical experience.
Your week in Izola
Get an insight to our classes, live music events, performance opportunities, and social events.
Eleven years ago, I set out to create a space just for singers—a place where you could dive deep into your artistry, develop your musicianship, and gain the confidence to lead a band.
As singers, we wear so many hats—musician, artist, performer, bandleader—and I wanted this course to truly support you in every aspect of that journey. A place where you can refine your craft, explore your unique sound, and gain hands-on experience performing with a world-class band.
Now in its 11th year, this course has become a special home for singers, and each year brings something new. This summer, I’m excited to introduce fresh workshops, an expanded faculty, and new ways to help you grow—both on and off the stage. While the heart of the course remains the same—working closely with a professional band, shaping your repertoire, and gaining real performance experience—this year offers even more flexibility, new masterclasses, and tailored coaching to meet you where you are.
But what makes this course truly special is the vocal community that has grown over the years—a space where like-minded singers come together, learn, collaborate, and build friendships that last far beyond this one week.
If you’re ready to step into a week of inspiration, learning, and music-making, I’d love to have you join us.
Scroll down to discover more about our classes and how to apply.
Emilia x
Develop your musicianship and band leading skills
Vocal Workshops
"To progress to the next level in our own playing, it's crucial to engage with musicians who have already reached that level. Our daily vocal workshops, led by Emilia, are designed to empower you as a band leader and performer. During these sessions, you'll receive personalized attention from Emilia and the band, allowing you to delve into innovative approaches to repertoire that enhance your expression, fuel your imagination, and refine your musicianship and bandleading skills. Our rhythm section boasts top-tier talent from the European jazz scene, ensuring an immersive and inspiring learning environment."
"Unveiling Music Through the Singer's Lens"
Music Theory Classes, Ensemble Singing and Creative Writing
"We provide two distinct avenues for enhancing your grasp of music theory and its connection to your role as a singer.
In our VOCAL ENSEMBLE sessions, dive into music theory exercises through group singing. Explore chord structures and train your ear to identify the distinct 'flavor' of notes such as the 7th or 9th degree of the scale. These sessions also focus on honing your ability to harmonize with fellow singers.
Alternatively, our MUSIC THEORY classes cater specifically to singers, placing emphasis on melodies, harmonic progressions, and rhythm. Delve into what makes a melody exceptional, decipher the symbols and letters on lead sheets, and learn to recognize chord progressions by ear.
As singers, we recognize the importance of understanding and creatively engaging with text. That's why our course includes CREATIVE WRITING sessions, offering you the opportunity to delve deeper into lyrics. Gain insights into how text and harmony intertwine to elevate the story within a song.
"Discovering Your Artistic Path: Navigating Creative Direction for Singers"
Masterclasses
"As singers, we embody multiple roles - musicians, artists, performers, and bandleaders. Yet, amidst these diverse roles, the greatest challenge often lies in defining what truly matters to us in the creative process and discovering our unique artistic path.
In our sessions, we delve into the concept of Artistic Identity and its significance. We explore strategies for enhancing and evolving our mindset toward performance, recognizing that exceptional performances engage our mind, body, emotions, and spirit.
I firmly believe that the gateway to understanding the myriad facets of vocal artistry lies within our own voices. Our holistic voice workshop invites you to embark on a transformative journey beyond the mere vibrations of sound. Through this session, we unlock the profound wisdom inherent in each tone, fostering healing, balance, and well-being in your life."
Performance, Live Music, and Community Connection Await!"
Beyond our enriching classes, our week is centered around two main pillars: live music and nurturing relationships between singers who share similar interests and passions.
We strive to create abundant performance opportunities for all participants.
Throughout the week, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of live music, jam sessions, and performances, creating unforgettable moments and memories. Whether it's jamming into the late hours, attending live shows, or simply enjoying the company of fellow participants, every evening is filled with community spirit and camaraderie.
Here are some highlights from previous years!
Join us for a week of music, connection, and unforgettable experiences. Let's create new highlights together!
HOW TO APPLY
Submit Your Materials: An OPEN APPLICATION PROCESS WILL BE HELD 3/3-1/4
Email us a brief biography detailing your musical journey along with two contrasting recordings or videos showcasing your singing. Alternatively, you can choose to perform live in an online session. (SEE BELOW FOR BOOKING A FREE 1:1 SESSION).
Answer Three Questions:
In your email, please provide thoughtful responses to the following questions:
a. What are your primary aspirations for your future as a singer?
b. What are the main challenges and obstacles you currently face as a singer?
c. What would be the ideal outcome for you from participating in this year's Beyond Vocals Jazz Summer course?
Send your application materials and responses to beyondvocalsuk@gmail.com
As part of your application, we offer a complimentary 30-minute online one-to-one session. This is an opportunity to discuss your aspirations and goals, meet your vocal tutor Emilia, and address any questions you may have about the week.
We are dedicated to cultivating a supportive and creative environment for singers committed to enhancing their craft and advancing their careers as professional artists.
Our open application process allows us to ensure that we recruit participants who are aligned with our mission of growth and development in singing, artistry, and bandleading within the jazz genre.
