Western Georgia 29 August – 6 September 2025
Georgian polyphony is not just about singing;
it is a way of relating to one another.
Authentic Culture
Experience true Georgian hospitality by staying with local families in unique, off-the-beaten-path locations.
Singing & Voice
Engage in daily workshops led by expert local singers and voice coaches, delving into the heart of Georgian musical tradition.
Local Excursions
Explore breathtaking mountains and visit cultural sites, immersing yourself in Georgia's natural beauty and heritage.
Georgian polyphonic singing, recognized as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is a captivating a cappella tradition typically performed in three voice parts.
Singing is deeply woven into Georgian life — accompanying daily activities from working the fields to healing, from celebrations to expressions of love and mourning.
Our coaching method explores the full range of vocal expression, including sounding, speaking, and singing. We take a holistic approach to vocal training that integrates body and breath to help you gain a deeper understanding of your vocal potential.
Whether you are a singer or public speaker, this practice will empower you to expand your vocal range, build confidence, and discover your authentic voice.
We've crafted an unforgettable experience that goes far beyond a typical tour or workshop. This journey invites you to engage in authentic cultural exchange, deepen your connection with nature, and embark on a path of profound self-discovery.
Join a 9-day adventure through the mountains of Western Georgia!
Meet your Coaches and Local Hosts
Holly and Swan met while living and singing in Georgia, where they collaborated with renowned musicologist David Shugliashvili. They also worked with Frank Kane, a leading expert in Georgian music, and trained in numerous embodied voice practices through organizations like the Natural Voice Network and the Roy Hart Centre.
Holly is the host of Voices of the Ancestor, the only podcast dedicated to Georgian singing, and leads the Oxford Georgian Choir. Swan, founder of the Institute of Devotional Arts, has designed and led hundreds of workshops and retreats across 13 countries. They both view the voice as an instrument of connection and transformation.
Ana, Eka, and Madona Chamgeliani sing, study, and share the songs of their ancestors, preserving the invaluable musical traditions of their homeland. Listen to the sisters' captivating voices, to Holly’s insightful podcast interview, and to this documentary to find out more about the magic of Georgian culture (Madona appears at 27').
Click on the person to find out about them.
Swan Dao is a singer, speaker, coach, and experience designer passionate about harnessing the power of art for healing and transformation...
Dr Swan Dao
Psychotherapist & Creative Director
France & Vietnam
Holly Taylor-Zuntz is a singer, choir director, and voice leader with a deep passion for Georgian polyphony...
Holly Taylor-Zuntz
Singer & Choir Director
England
Svan Songs
The Chamgeliani Sisters – Ana, Eka, and Madona – are a trio coming from a long lineage of singers from the isolated and mountainous province of Svaneti. Keeping their oral tradition alive...
The Chamgeliani Sisters
Singers & Ethnomusicologists
Georgia (Svaneti)
Guria Songs
Avtandil Turkia (Avto) s a singer, ensemble director, and music teacher with a lifelong dedication to Georgian traditional song-chanting...
Avtandil Turkia
Singer & Music Teacher
Georgia (Guria)
AJARAN SONGS
Coming soon
The Turmanize Family
Singer & Music Teacher
Georgia (Ajara)
Megrelian Songs
Coming soon.
Besiki Chitanava
Musician & Folklorist
Georgia (Samegrelo)
29 August – 6 September 2025
Over our 9-day journey, we’ll immerse ourselves in three stunning locations in rural Western Georgia. Each day features traditional singing, cultural exchange, and vocal coaching alongside visits to cultural heritage sites and places of breathtaking natural beauty.
Meet in Kutaisi, the historic capital of Georgia and gather at the iconic Bagrati Cathedral. Travel to Guria, where singer Avto Turkia’s family warmly welcomes us. End the day with a traditional Georgian supra dinner, filled with toasts and songs.
Participate in a singing masterclass with Avto Turkia. Visit a tranquil local monastery, and settle into traditional village life, savouring home-cooked Gurian cuisine.
Depart to the vast mountain ranges of Svaneti. We will be met by the Chamgeliani sisters in the Singing Village of Lakhushdi. Join an evening masterclass with Ana, closing the day with a supra dinner.
Join a morning masterclass with Ana Chamgeliani, honing your voices and confidence. Afternoons invite quiet reflection or nature walks through stunning mountain scenery. ExploreMestia, the historic mountain town and capital of Svaneti.
Meet in Kutaisi, the historic capital of Georgia and gather at the iconic Bagrati Cathedral. Travel to Guria, where singer Avto Turkia’s family warmly welcomes us. End the day with a traditional Georgian supra dinner, filled with toasts and songs.
Participate in a singing masterclass with Avto Turkia. Visit a tranquil local monastery, and settle into traditional village life, savouring home-cooked Gurian cuisine.
Depart to the vast mountain ranges of Svaneti. We will be met by the Chamgeliani sisters in the Singing Village of Lakhushdi. Join an evening masterclass with Ana, closing the day with a supra dinner.
Join a morning masterclass with Ana Chamgeliani, honing your voices and confidence. Afternoons invite quiet reflection or nature walks through stunning mountain scenery. ExploreMestia, the historic mountain town and capital of Svaneti.
Continue learning traditional Svan songs with Ana Chemgeliani. Hike up the Church of Tanghili and unwind by the river, taking time to rest and reflect.
Descend to the serene Black Sea coast. Enjoy free time by the sea or explore botanical gardens. Settle in the peaceful mountain village of Merisi , where the Turmanidze family hosts an unforgettable supra dinner.
Immerse yourself in Ajara, where Georgian and Ottoman influences blend in unique ways. Participate in masterclasses with Jemal and Khatia Turmanidze.
Join a final masterclass with Jemal and Khatia. The afternoon is free for peaceful walks and quiet reflection in Ajara’s serene landscapes, preparing to close this singing journey.
Depart towards Kutaisi, with a farewell lunch hosted by Avto’s family in Guria. In Kutaisi, gather for a closing ceremony at Bagrati Cathedral, sealing our journey with shared memories and new friendships.
Coming together in nature through
voice, vibration, and local tradition.
Discover the Heart of Georgia
REGIONS
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Georgia's most captivating regions: Guria, Ajara, and Svaneti. In Guria, immerse yourself in rolling hills, tea plantations, and lush forests that reflect the heart of rural life. Ajara offers a stunning blend of subtropical beaches and mist-covered mountains,where coastal beauty meets highland tranquillity. In Svaneti, the towering Caucasus peaks and ancient stone towers evoke a timeless landscape rich in history, tradition, and natural wonder.
A HOMESTAY EXPERIENCE
Experience the essence of Georgian hospitality by staying with local singing families who open their doors with warmth and care. Enjoy delicious, home-cooked traditional meals each day, as you connect deeply with village life, sharing in the authentic customs, stories, and daily rhythms of the region.
Submit Your Application Today
With limited spaces available, we are carefully selecting a small group of individuals to create a uniquely diverse and inspiring experience. Each applicant will participate in an interview to ensure alignment with our vision of creative and cultural discovery. Don’t miss your chance — apply now to secure your place on this extraordinary singing journey!
Price
Accommodation for 9 days / 8 nights
All meals, snacks, and drinks
All activities, excursions, and classes
All transportation within Georgia
The journey was truly transformative for me. It was thoughtfully planned and skilfully guided. The depth of connection that emerged among the participants was remarkable.
Dr Dorothy Watt | Naturopath | England
I returned home renewed, feeling closer to my true self and more connected to others. Experiencing Georgian music in its homeland, guided by masterful local singers, was unforgettable and magical.
Gökçe Oğultekin | Filmmaker| Turkey
It was a soothing, nourishing, and incredibly culturally enriching experience that helped me fully unwind, leaving me deeply inspired and with a profound sense of musical bliss.
Dragana Avokadovic | Performer | Austria
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Ready to find your voice in the heart of Georgian culture?
We handpick the best participants for this unforgettable adventure.