Syllabus

 What You'll Learn

The syllabus covers a broad range of topics, including:

  • Foundations – History, Notation, and Latin Pronunciation:

    Covering the origins of Gregorian chant, basics of neumatic notation, and ecclesiastical Latin pronunciation (beginners)

  • Gregorian Semiology & Interpretation:

    Understanding Gregorian neumes, interpreting early manuscripts, and Dom Eugène Cardine’s semiological principles (advanced)



  • Intermediate Skills – Modes, Rhythm, and Chant Interpretation: 

    Focusing on the 8 Gregorian modes, rhythmic theories, and expressive chant performance (beginners)

  • Liturgical Context, Rhythm & Expression:

    Exploring chant’s function in liturgy, rhythmic interpretation techniques, and expressive chant phrasing (advanced)



  • Mastery – Repertoire, Ensemble Practice, and Liturgical Application: 

    Emphasising  ensemble practice, repertoire expansion, and liturgical application of chant (beginners)​


  • Performance Practice & Chant Leadership:

    Developing skills for directing and teaching chant, conducting,
    and live interpretation (advanced)     ​    ​



Expert Instruction

The course will be led by a professional music director and chant teacher, Dominic Bevan, with support from religious practitioners who will provide coaching in the interpretation of chant within its liturgical context


A unique Learning Experience

Each workshop concludes with participants singing the chants they have learned in a liturgical service, such as Mass, providing an authentic and immersive experience










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Latest on our course fast approaching..

don't delay APPLY TODAY and spread the word about what's in store -  inviting music lovers, singers, and spiritual seekers to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Gregorian Chant   in  Portsmouth this Spring 2026 🙏
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Registration Opens for Portsmouth Gregorian Chant Course 2026: Embrace the Timeless Art of Chanting Portsmouth, UK – The Portsmouth Gregorian Chant Course 2026 is now open for registration, inviting music lovers, singers, and spiritual seekers to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Gregorian Chant at St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth. This unique course offers a rare opportunity to explore one of the oldest and most profound musical traditions in the Western world. Course Overview Designed for both beginners and experienced singers, the course consists of three one-day workshops on the second Saturday of January (10th), February (14th), and March (14th) 2026. Participants will delve into the historical context, vocal techniques, and interpretative skills necessary to become confident chant practitioners and leaders. The syllabus includes: Foundations: History, notation, and Latin pronunciation (beginners) Gregorian Semiology & Interpretation: Neumes...
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We are delighted to share that applications for enrolment on the Portsmouth Gregorian Chant course are now being accepted

  T o register your interest in attending this 3-part Course, please fill in  the enrolment form  at your earliest convenience in order to secure your place. Course dates are Saturdays 10 Jan, 14 Feb and 14 Mar 2026 - numbers are capped due to the nature and intensity of the course and the facilities available. Don't delay! Note: All applications will be acknowledged. Places will be allocated later, but only confirmed once the course fee is paid.  
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Blog posts

Keep an eye out here for updates on progress with our upcoming Gregorian Chant Course flagged for the New Year at Portsmouth RC Cathedral  Check out our home page for latest updates Click the location link below  for directions to the RC Cathedral, St John's (not to be confused with the Anglican Portsmouth Cathedral which is located in Old Portsmouth near the dockyard) < Home page
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Great News - this week beginning 22 Sept 2025

  We will be accepting Application Forms for registration from Friday 26 September 2025 In the meantime, here are details of the cost of the course: Course Subscription The fee for the 3-part course  will need to be paid in advance, after application approval Adults £75 Students £45 Children £30 This fee includes  The Cost of Instruction  and Course Materials Tea and coffee will be available throughout the day Participants should bring a packed lunch or shop locally (there is a cafe in Victoria Park opposite the Cathedral until 3pm and the city centre is just a few minutes' walk away) check here on Friday, 26 September  for a link to the Application Form
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Big Announcement today 10 September 2025 at 8pm BST

  Great News for all on the South Coast of England and beyond... Are you ready to delve into the enchanting world of Gregorian Chant?  We are delighted to announce, and invite you to join us for the Portsmouth Gregorian Chant Course 2026 at St John’s Cathedral, Portsmouth UK, and embark on a musical journey that transcends time Our course is designed for both beginners and experienced singers who wish to deepen their understanding and practice of Gregorian Chant. Over three one-day workshops, held on the second Saturday of January, February and March 2026, participants will learn the historical context, vocal techniques, and interpretative skills necessary to become confident chant practitioners and chant leaders See details of how to  apply for a place on the course here
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