Piano Sanctuary
Piano Sanctuary is an learning and lifestyle-based approach to the piano designed for adults of all ages and abilities by Pro Corda. Based on years of teaching adult pianists and understanding their needs and interests, Piano Sanctuary offers a creative method designed to fast-track progress and enjoyment.
You can experience inspirational piano retreats in small supportive groups at Leiston Abbey in Suffolk. All courses and retreats are led by experienced, friendly tutors, giving you both 1-on-1 and group learning opportunities.
Click on our short film to get the true flavour of Piano Sanctuary, and read on about everything we have to offer. A very special place, a unique programme , and tailor made for each adult learner’s wishes and desired outcomes; Piano Sanctuary really does offer something for everyone…..
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Piano Sanctuary offers the inspiring combination of a very special place and a unique programme, tailor made for each adult learner’s wishes and desired outcomes. whatever stage of learning they are at. Piano Sanctuary really does offer something for everyone.
“I am a busy working professional with my own business, and a mum. I have always loved playing the piano and love the challenge even though I have technical limitations. A Piano Sanctuary retreat is my annual treat to myself! – a space where I get to concentrate totally on something I love, and to enjoy like-minded company and the music-making of others”– Piano Sanctuary retreat participant
Piano Sanctuary hosts retreats for adult piano learners of all ages and abilities. There are no entry requirements or auditions: whether you are coming to the piano for the first time, or returning after several or many years, you will be encouraged and guided at your own pace.
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What happens on the courses?
Piano Sanctuary retreats are hosted at the Pro Corda music school within the evocative grounds of the 14th century Leiston Abbey, set in the heart of the Suffolk countryside. All participants enjoy a mixed daily schedule of individual and group piano tuition, enhanced opportunities including postural coaching and yoga, and the opportunity to perform in concerts. Up to 6 hours of tuition are available each day (3 hours on Friday), and a further 2 hours per day on Saturday and Sunday of enhanced opportunities.
Piano Sanctuary is also about having a great time socially. The full board package caters for all dietary needs with delicious food prepared by Leiston Abbey’s chefs using locally sourced ingredients.
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We are delighted to announce that Pro Corda’s courses are returning home to our magical Leiston Abbey site.
In the heart of the Suffolk countryside with easy access to the Heritage Coast, participants on the course will be able to enjoy a vast array of social and fun activities – organised to complement and warmly welcome every individual.
Upcoming weekends
19 - 21 March 2027
Join acclaimed pianists Helen Reid and Gretel Dowdeswell for an inspiring Piano Sanctuary weekend at the beautiful Leiston Abbey. Designed for adult pianists of all ages and abilities, this residential retreat offers expert one-to-one tuition, group workshops, duet sessions and opportunities to perform, alongside delicious meals and time to connect with fellow music lovers. A wonderful opportunity to develop your playing and enjoy a weekend dedicated to music-making.
PAYMENT METHODS
Please note, the course price includes a 2% transaction fee. If you would like to pay via bank transfer, please contact mail@procorda.com where we can arrange payment without this fee.
14-16 May 2027
Join acclaimed pianists Annabel Thwaite and Gretel Dowdeswell for an inspiring Piano Sanctuary weekend at the beautiful Leiston Abbey, 14–16 May 2027. Designed for adult pianists of all ages and abilities, this residential retreat offers expert tuition, supportive group sessions and opportunities to perform, alongside delicious meals and time to connect with fellow music lovers. A wonderful opportunity to develop your playing and enjoy a weekend dedicated to music-making.
PAYMENT METHODS
Please note, the course price includes a 2% transaction fee. If you would like to pay via bank transfer, please contact mail@procorda.com where we can arrange payment without this fee.
25-27 June 2027
Join acclaimed pianists Victor Lim and Gretel Dowdeswell for an inspiring Piano Sanctuary weekend at the beautiful Leiston Abbey. Designed for adult pianists of all ages and abilities, this residential retreat offers expert tuition, supportive group sessions and opportunities to perform, alongside delicious meals and time to connect with fellow music lovers. A wonderful opportunity to develop your playing and enjoy a weekend dedicated to music-making.
PAYMENT METHODS
Please note, the course price includes a 2% transaction fee. If you would like to pay via bank transfer, please contact mail@procorda.com where we can arrange payment without this fee.