The dates will be announced very soon!

 

The workshops are held in the unique setting that is the small XVth century chateau of Salles-Courbatiès, in a region of the the South-West of France which rich in culture and history.  The numbers of  participants are limited to five.

The piping workshop

Catering for all levels with the individual attention that such small classes allow. Various styles, and techniques will be studied as well as the organology, history of the instrument and its répertoire.

The reed making and uilleann pipes first aid, workshop.

 Double reed making in cane and elder.  Drone reeds and general maintenance of the instrument (ie how to cope and fix all those annoying little problems)

 

The practicalities

The cost of  320 euros, includes 3 nights accommodation in the chateau ( 2 rooms with 4 poster-beds)  Drinks and tapas on arrival, 2 lunches  WITH WINE and the tuitions.  In the case of the reed making classes, the kit is supplied. The 2 day workshops start at 9.30 AM, stop for lunch from 12 until 1.30PM  (with a coffee break around 11AM) and onwards until 5.00PM.

 

You can bring a non-piping being as well as  extending your stay (contact us directly for costs)

Vegetarian meals  or any other diet requirement available, provided advance notification is given.

A non refundable deposit of 100 euros  is required on booking.

 

The castèl and the region

 

Situated on the banks of the stream which carves the beautiful valley of the Diège out of the limestone plateau, the chateau was probably a Templar building originally, the village of Salles-Courbatiès certainly was. It was governed from the nearby commandery of Drulhes and one templar mill still exists.

The castèl as it is known in Occitan, has had a tumultuous history, passing from the Morlhon family (Cathar sympathizers )to the bishop of Rodez, burnt during the wars of religion, the revolution eventually saw it divided into four separate dwellings until,  finally in the 20th century greed and stupidity nearly got the better of it- its second tower, monumental fireplaces  and one wings were demolished to re-sell as stones! Hopefully it will know a more peaceful future.

 

Surprisingly the region is  extremely rich in megaliths ( much more than Brittany!) as well as castles and caves . On the practical side, from the Salles-Courbatiès train station you can catch the train to Toulouse (wonderful scenery,via Najac).There is also a  shop/café /restaurant (only does lunch)  in the village but Villeneuve d’Aveyron, 4kms away has all the conveniences including 3 restaurants.

Speaking of food, the local charcuterie is famed throughout France, as is the cassoulet, aligot  and confit.

Marcillac is the local wine but there are some stunning  and cheap Gaillac and Cahors amongst other growing close by!

All in all don’t come here to lose weight!