The jazz school will take place in a converted 15th century convent located in the centre of old Havana. Although this is one of the liveliest quarters of Havana, the convent is surrounded by high walls and offers a self-contained, secluded and private living and workshop place that will be completely occupied by the school during our stay.Cuban Summer school - jazz course
The convent has its own gardens, sleeping accommodation, workshop rooms and concert halls, and a café/restaurant that will prepare food for the school
The convent has 9 good-sized, en-suite apartments.
NB: All the apartments are for two people sharing (arrangements can be made for larger groups in the two big apartments).
Additional accommodation may also be available in nearby home-stays or hotels - prices to be negotiated.
Havana
Havana is one of the most exciting and musically vibrant cities in the world and the school is located within walking distance from the Havana 'Malecon' and coast, the 'Capitolio' (Cuban White House) and the Prado (Havana's Ramblas). The school is surrounded by the bustling bars, restaurants and shops of 'Habana Vieja' (Old Havana) - many of which feature Cuban music day and night! Music is central to the Cuban way of life and you'll have a chance to experience the street 'Rumbas' - with very African dancing and rhythms - organised concerts, informal jams throughout the city plus two world class jazz clubs.
For those who've heard of the beautiful Cuban beaches, the Playa de Este is just 30 minutes away.
Havana is a unique city which is moving quickly from its colonial and revolutionary past. Now a World Heritage Site, many of its former grand colonial buildings are being restored, while the country is fast opening up for tourist dollars. The Cuban Jazz School gives you a wonderful opportunity to be part of the life and culture of this extraordinary place before it changes forever
Flights are not included and course members will make their own travel arrangements.
Direct flights to Havana are currently available with Virgin & Cubana, with Virgin generally being cheaper.
In Havana the Convento is approx. 30 mins. From the airport and taxis are readily available for about 20 C.U.C.'s (£10 - £12).
Kath Bateman's company, Caledonia Languages, is ABTA registered and can book flights for you -
You can contact them at:-
Caledonia Languages:
Tel: 0131 621 7721/2
E-mail: courses@caledonialanguages.co.uk
Please tell them you are part of the Cuba Music School.
We will circulate information on people's day and time of arrival to facilitate the sharing of taxis.
