This course is designed for anyone who just wants a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It would suit anyone who wants a bit of time away to practise or wants to fall in love with playing the piano again!

It would also be ideal for anyone one who has made a New Year’s resolution to get better at the piano!

There are no group sessions, no performances and no stress! The course is open to pianists of all levels.

The course is arranged around food – so there’s no strict timetable or deadlines. Guests are free to play anytime they like between 7am and 8pm, rest when they like or explore the beautiful Kentish countryside.

On hand throughout will be Warren Mailley-Smith, one of our most popular tutors at Finchcocks and the first British pianist to perform Chopin’s complete works for solo piano from memory in a series of 11 recitals at St John’s Smith Square. Warren will be available to ask questions, and will have time for two private 1:1 sessions for anyone who would like them.

On Saturday night, he’ll also be playing a recital which is an opportunity to relax and be inspired with a glass of wine in the magical setting of the main Hall of Finchcocks, or outside on our newly built stage if the weather behaves!

We have one grand piano available for every guest in our vaulted cellars, including our new Steinway. Piano conversation will flow freely over coffee and home made biscuits and cakes in between bouts of practice!

This promises to be one of our most relaxed and enjoyable courses. If it sounds of interest, please drop Jenny a line using the form below, or give her a ring on 01580 428080. Alternatively, check out Jenny’s blog article about our retreat here.