NICW 27
Handel's Messiah
January 24–February 8, 2027
Extraordinary music. Extraordinary places. Unforgettable connections.
NICW is an annual Canadian choral workshop and cultural exchange that brings experienced singers to Nicaragua for collaborative music-making and thoughtfully curated travel. Learn about NICW.
Following an official invitation from the Director of the Rubén Darío National Theatre, NICW 27 will bring experienced Canadian and Nicaraguan singers together with professional instrumentalists and soloists for a historic presentation of highlights from Handel’s Messiah in Managua and Granada.
Over sixteen unforgettable days, participants will rehearse, perform, explore, and unwind, visiting sites and attractions in San Juan del Sur, León, Managua, and Granada.
The programme combines ambitious music-making with international collaboration and cultural exchange, while preserving time to experience Nicaragua in all its beauty, make new friends, and enjoy a sunny break from the Northern winter.
Following an official invitation from the Director of the Rubén Darío National Theatre, NICW 27 will bring experienced Canadian and Nicaraguan singers together with professional instrumentalists and soloists for a historic presentation of highlights from Handel’s Messiah in Managua and Granada.
Over sixteen unforgettable days, participants will rehearse, perform, explore, and unwind, visiting sites and attractions in San Juan del Sur, León, Managua, and Granada.
The programme combines ambitious music-making with international collaboration and cultural exchange, while preserving time to experience Nicaragua in all its beauty, make new friends, and enjoy a sunny break from the Northern winter.
Learn more, join the mailing list, or contact us with an inquiry.
NICW 27 AT A GLANCE
Participants travelling from other cities—or arranging their ownflights—are encouraged to inquire about alternative travel options
Date
January 24–February 8, 2027
Music
Highlights from Handel’s Messiah and selected Nicaraguan works
Destinations
- San Juan del Sur
- León
- Managua
- Granada
Performances
Messiah (highlights) at the Rubén Darío National Theatre in Managua, and Iglesia Xalteva Granada, along with educational concerts and singing for the mass at León’s
Cathedral and local church in San Juan del Sur.
Program Fee:
$4,600 CAD
Includes
Round-trip airfare from Ottawa
- Accommodation
- Ground transportation
- Artistic programme
- Selected excursions
- Approximately half of all meals
Registration Incentives
- Register by September 1 and receive 10% Early Bird savings.
- Register together and the second participant receives 10% off.
- A limited number of bursaries are available for exceptional young singers.
Alternative arrangements and adjusted pricing are available for participants joining elsewhere or arranging their own flights.
Not sure whether NICW 27 is for you?
Read on to find out!
WHO IS THIS FOR?
NICW 27 is for experienced choral singers excited by musical challenge, international travel, and cultural exploration.
Participants Should:
- Be able to prepare music independently
- Enjoy focused and goal-oriented rehearsals
- Enjoy travelling with a group
- Approach new experiences with curiosity, flexibility, and respect
- Enjoy warm weather and lots of sun
- Love singing Handel’s Messiah
There are no formal auditions.
Prospective participants must provide information about their singing background and level of experience, in particular with respect to Handel’s Messiah, and may be asked to do a vocal assessment in cases where the music director needs more information or to gauge readiness prior to the tour.
Non-singing companions are welcome and encouraged to join the tour.
Learn more, join the mailing list, or contact us with an inquiry about your suitability
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
NICW 2027 is intended for experienced choral singers who enjoy musical challenge, international travel, and collaborative music-making.
Participants should arrive having learned their music so rehearsals can focus on interpretation and ensemble rather than learning notes. Non-singing companions are welcome, subject to availability.
PREPARING FOR THE TOUR
Ottawa-area participants are encouraged to participate in Ottawa Choral Workshops’ Fall 2026 study of Handel’s Messiah. Additional tour rehearsals will be offered in Ottawa, Montréal, and Toronto during December
and January.
REPERTOIRE
Handel’s Messiah is the musical heart of NICW 27.
Participants will prepare selected choruses before travelling, then join Nicaraguan singers, professional instrumentalists, and soloists for an intensive rehearsal and performance period.
The musical programme will also include selected Nicaraguan works, with final repertoire confirmed as planning progresses. Inquire for details about the music list.
Because singers arrive knowing their music, rehearsals can move beyond note-learning to focus on style, interpretation, ensemble, text, and expression.
Participants will prepare selected choruses before travelling, then join Nicaraguan singers, professional instrumentalists, and soloists for an intensive rehearsal and performance period.
The musical programme will also include selected Nicaraguan works, with final repertoire confirmed as planning progresses. Inquire for details about the music list.
Because singers arrive knowing their music, rehearsals can move beyond note-learning to focus on style, interpretation, ensemble, text, and expression.
“Rehearsing and performing with the Nicaraguan choir was my most memorable moment.”
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
San Juan del Sur (SJdS)
The tour begins on Nicaragua’s Pacific coast, where morning rehearsals leave afternoons and evenings free for personal time, visiting local attractions, beaches, and relaxation by the pool.
The group returns to San Juan del Sur at the end of the workshop for a local church service and celebratory catamaran excursion.
León
Sing a capella treasures at the largest and most reverberant Cathedral in Central America, see original works by Picasso and Warhol at the internationally acclaimed Ortiz-Gurdián Art Gallery, and wander León’s revolutionary mall.
Managua
Enter the project’s most exciting musical phase, combining rehearsals with chorus and orchestra at the Teatro Nacional, an educational concert, dress rehearsals, and feature tour concert in downtown Managua.
Granada
Stopping by Masaya Volcano national park en route, next visit one of the oldest colonial cities in the Americas for the second Messiah concert at the gorgeous Iglesia Xalteva. Enjoy a riverboat cruise and birdwatching along the shores of Lake Nicaragua near Granada’s old port, shopping, nightlife and entertainment, and amazing hotels in Nicaragua’s most beautiful city.
“Nicaragua is paradise.”
PRE-TOUR PREP
Participants must obtain their own Messiah scores, Novello edition, available here.
Model recordings, home study aids, annotated (digital) scores, will be provided mid fall Singers in Ottawa may join Ottawa Choral Workshops’ Fall 26 intensive study of Handel’s Messiah, leading to performances with orchestra and soloists in Ottawa in December. The OCW fall workshop will provide comprehensive training and instruction for singers who are new to Messiah or haven’t sung it recently.
Pre-tour rehearsals will be offered on select dates this fall in Ottawa, Montréal, and Toronto to support singers preparing independently. Rehearsals in Nicaragua will focus on interpretation and ensemble, and not be given to learning notes.
Model recordings, home study aids, annotated (digital) scores, will be provided mid fall Singers in Ottawa may join Ottawa Choral Workshops’ Fall 26 intensive study of Handel’s Messiah, leading to performances with orchestra and soloists in Ottawa in December. The OCW fall workshop will provide comprehensive training and instruction for singers who are new to Messiah or haven’t sung it recently.
Pre-tour rehearsals will be offered on select dates this fall in Ottawa, Montréal, and Toronto to support singers preparing independently. Rehearsals in Nicaragua will focus on interpretation and ensemble, and not be given to learning notes.
REGISTRATION & POLICIES
Registration for NICW 27 is now open. The registration deadline is October 15, 2026.
Program Fee:
$4,600 CAD
- Payment Schedule
- $1,000 CAD deposit ($1,500 for couples registering together) upon registration to secure your place.
- Balance payable in three monthly instalments due November 15, December 15, and January 15.
- Payment for optional excursions will be collected during the tour.
Discounts
- Register by September 1, 2026 and receive a 10% Early Registration Discount.
- Register with another participant and the second participant also receives 10% off.
- A limited number of reduced-fee places may be available for student singers and choral section leaders.
If NICW 27 is cancelled by the organizers, all payments will be refunded in full.
Before registering, participants must review and sign the NICW 27 Participant Agreement & Waiver, which outlines the complete registration process, payment terms, cancellation policy, travel insurance requirements, participant responsibilities, and other important conditions. Contact us with any questions about registration, fees, or payment options.
Before registering, participants must review and sign the NICW 27 Participant Agreement & Waiver, which outlines the complete registration process, payment terms, cancellation policy, travel insurance requirements, participant responsibilities, and other important conditions. Contact us with any questions about registration, fees, or payment options.
INTERESTED IN NICW 27
Thinking about joining us?
Start with a non-binding Expression of Interest by completing the form below. There is no commitment and no payment required. For quick questions, contact us or send an email to info@nicw.ca or join the mailing list for future updates.
Start with a non-binding Expression of Interest by completing the form below. There is no commitment and no payment required. For quick questions, contact us or send an email to info@nicw.ca or join the mailing list for future updates.
Join Our News Letter
Featured Experience
NICW 2027
Handel’s Messiah in Nicaragua
January 23 – February 8, 2027
Sublime music. Extraordinary places. Unforgettable connections. The Nicaragua International Choral Workshop (NICW) brings together experienced choral singers for exceptional music-making, meaningful cultural exchange, and immersive travel in one of Central America’s most beautiful and welcoming countries.
Led by Canadian conductor Roland Graham, NICW combines inspiring rehearsals, thoughtfully curated travel, and time to relax and recharge, culminating in performances of Handel’s Messiah alongside Nicaraguan singers and instrumentalists.
Led by Canadian conductor Roland Graham, NICW combines inspiring rehearsals, thoughtfully curated travel, and time to relax and recharge, culminating in performances of Handel’s Messiah alongside Nicaraguan singers and instrumentalists. In 2027, participants have been invited to become the first ensemble to perform Messiah at Managua’s historic Rubén Darío National Theatre—an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of the world’s great choral masterpieces as part of a truly unique international musical collaboration.
Led by Canadian conductor Roland Graham, NICW combines inspiring rehearsals, thoughtfully curated travel, and time to relax and recharge, culminating in performances of Handel’s Messiah alongside Nicaraguan singers and instrumentalists.
Led by Canadian conductor Roland Graham, NICW combines inspiring rehearsals, thoughtfully curated travel, and time to relax and recharge, culminating in performances of Handel’s Messiah alongside Nicaraguan singers and instrumentalists. In 2027, participants have been invited to become the first ensemble to perform Messiah at Managua’s historic Rubén Darío National Theatre—an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of the world’s great choral masterpieces as part of a truly unique international musical collaboration.
"Rather than simply presenting concerts abroad, NICW is built around genuine musical exchange—bringing Canadian and Nicaraguan musicians together to rehearse, learn from one another, and perform side by side. The result is more than a concert tour; it's a shared artistic experience created with our hosts, not simply presented to them."
“Additional experiences forthcoming — stay tuned”
past Experiences
NICW 2026
January–February 2026
For the first time, NICW participants collaborated with Nicaraguan singers to prepare and jointly perform Vivaldi’s Gloria and a traditional Nicaraguan mass, while travelling through San Juan del Sur, Granada, León, and the volcanic landscapes of Ometepe Island.Participants will collaborate with Granada-based sister ensemble Coro Laudate in a varied program drawing from classical, Canadian, and Nicaraguan sacred and secular traditions, with singing residencies and performances in San Juan del Sur, Granada, and León.
NICW 2024
February 2024
The inaugural Nicaragua International Choral Workshop introduced participants to a unique combination of choral singing, travel, cultural immersion, and artistic collaboration in Nicaragua. Centered in San Juan del Sur and Granada, the project established the foundation for future NICW experiences and international partnerships.Participants will collaborate with Granada-based sister ensemble Coro Laudate in a varied program drawing from classical, Canadian, and Nicaraguan sacred and secular traditions, with singing residencies and performances in San Juan del Sur, Granada, and León.
WHAT MAKES NICW 2027 SPECIAL?
Unlike a traditional choir tour, NICW brings Canadian and Nicaraguan musicians together to rehearse, learn, and perform as one ensemble. Rather than simply presenting concerts abroad, participants become part of a genuine artistic collaboration, culminating in invited performances at Nicaragua’s premier performing arts venue—all while enjoying an exceptional winter retreat.
Participants will:
- Perform selections from Handel’s Messiah at the Rubén Darío National Theatre in Managua and Iglesia Xalteva in Granada.
- Rehearse and perform alongside Canadian and Nicaraguan singers, professional orchestra, and soloists.
- Work under the artistic direction of Roland Graham.
- Explore four remarkable destinations, from Pacific beachestcolonial cities.
- Visit volcanoes, museums, historic landmarks, and cultural sites.
- Enjoy free time to relax, explore independently, and escape the Canadian winter.
- Build lasting friendships through music, travel, and international collaboration.
"This tour is a wonderful experience culturally, musically and socially. Nicaragua is a beautiful country, with beautiful, resilient people, and the tour is well-run, well-organized and very well led."
THE JOURNEY
San Juan del Sur
The workshop begins in the Pacific beach town of San Juan del Sur, where morning rehearsals are balanced with afternoons to enjoy beaches, cafés, ocean views, and Nicaragua’s relaxed coastal lifestyle.
León
Explore one of Central America’s great colonial cities, including its cathedral and the internationally respected Ortiz-Gurdián Art Centre, home to works by Picasso, Miró, Chagall, Warhol, and many of Latin America’s leading artists.
Managua
Prepare for the tour’s principal event: performances of Handel’s Messiah at the Rubén Darío National Theatre. While in the capital, visit the nearby Palacio Nacional Museum.
Granada
Continue to one of the oldest colonial cities in the Americas, where colorful streets and lakeside plazas provide the setting for the tour’s second collaborative performance at Iglesia Xalteva.
Along the Way
Additional highlights include Masaya Volcano National Park, where visitors can peer into the glowing crater of one of the world’s few accessible lava lakes, along with carefully selected cultural experiences and a private catamaran cruise to celebrate the conclusion of the workshop.
Nicaragua is paradise."
THE MUSIC
Handel’s Messiah is the musical heart of NICW 2027.
Participants prepare selected choruses in advance before joining Canadian and Nicaraguan singers, professional orchestra, and soloists for an intensive rehearsal and performance period in Nicaragua.
The programe also includes a selection of works by Nicaraguan composers performed with local musicians.
Rehearsals focus on interpretation, ensemble, and musical refinement rather than note-learning, allowing participants to work toward performances of the highest artistic standard.
Participants prepare selected choruses in advance before joining Canadian and Nicaraguan singers, professional orchestra, and soloists for an intensive rehearsal and performance period in Nicaragua.
The programe also includes a selection of works by Nicaraguan composers performed with local musicians.
Rehearsals focus on interpretation, ensemble, and musical refinement rather than note-learning, allowing participants to work toward performances of the highest artistic standard.
"Rehearsing and performing with the Nicaraguan choir was my most memorable moment."
READY TO JOIN US?
Whether you’re drawn by Handel’s Messiah, international artistic collaboration, or the opportunity to discover one of Central America’s most remarkable destinations, NICW 2027 offers an experience unlike any other.
Retreat • Rehearse • Explore • Perform
The journey begins in the Pacific beach town of San Juan del Sur, where daily rehearsals are balanced with free time to enjoy Nicaragua’s warm climate, spectacular coastline, and relaxed pace of life.
Travelling north, the group explores the colonial cities of León and Granada, visits Masaya Volcano National Park, and experiences some of Nicaragua’s most important artistic, historical, and cultural landmarks.
Highlights include León’s internationally respected Ortiz-Gurdián Foundation Art Centre, home to works by Picasso, Warhol, Miró, Chagall, and many of Latin America’s most celebrated artists.
Travelling north, the group explores the colonial cities of León and Granada, visits Masaya Volcano National Park, and experiences some of Nicaragua’s most important artistic, historical, and cultural landmarks.
Highlights include León’s internationally respected Ortiz-Gurdián Foundation Art Centre, home to works by Picasso, Warhol, Miró, Chagall, and many of Latin America’s most celebrated artists.
“Rehearsing and performing with the Nicaraguan choir was my most memorable moment.”
Highlights:
- Choral workshops and rehearsals
- Collaboration with Nicaraguan singers
- Performances with professional orchestra and soloists
- Historic cities and cultural experiences
- Natural landscapes and excursions
- Time to relax, explore, and enjoy Nicaragua
- Perform Handel’s Messiah with professional orchestra and soloists
- Collaborate with Nicaraguan singers and instrumentalists
- Daily rehearsals and musical coaching
- Explore León, Granada, Managua, and San Juan del Sur
- Visit Masaya Volcano National Park and other carefully selected cultural and natural sites
- Enjoy time to relax, explore independently, and experience Nicaragua’s renowned hospitality
- Build lasting friendships through music and shared travel
The final days are spent rehearsing and presenting Handel’s Messiah with professional orchestra and soloists at the Rubén Darío National Theatre in Managua and Iglesia Xalteva in Granada.
The experience concludes with a private, all-inclusive boat excursion—a fitting celebration of two unforgettable weeks of music, friendship, and discovery.
The experience concludes with a private, all-inclusive boat excursion—a fitting celebration of two unforgettable weeks of music, friendship, and discovery.
"Nicaragua is paradise."
NICW 2027 At a Glance
Dates
January 23 – February 8, 2027
Locations
- San Juan del Sur
- León
- Granada
- Managua
Who Should Apply
NICW is designed for experienced choral singers who enjoy making music at a high level while embracing travel, cultural discovery, and meaningful international collaboration.
NICW is designed for experienced choral singers who enjoy making music at a high level while embracing travel, cultural discovery, and meaningful international collaboration.
Non-singing companions are welcome, subject to availability.
NICW is designed for experienced choral singers who enjoy making music at a high level while embracing travel, cultural discovery, and meaningful international collaboration.
Non-singing companions are welcome, subject to availability.
Interested in Learning More?
We’d be delighted to answer your questions about the music, itinerary, accommodations, performances, or anything else you’re curious about.
Package Includes
- Round-trip airfare from Ottawa
- Accommodations
- Ground transportation
- Artistic programming
- Rehearsals and performances
- Selected excursions
- Approximately 50% of meals
Program Fee
$4,650 CAD
Including round-trip airfare from Ottawa, accommodation, ground transportation, rehearsals, performances, and selected excursions.
Participants travelling from other cities—or wishing to arrange their own flights—are encouraged to inquire about alternative travel arrangements. Registration Incentives
Participants travelling from other cities—or wishing to arrange their own flights—are encouraged to inquire about alternative travel arrangements. Registration Incentives
- Early Bird: Register by September 1 and save 10%.
- Travelling together? The second participant receives 10% off when two people register together.
- A limited number of bursaries are available for exceptional young singers.
PREVIOUS WORKSHOPS
The NICW Story
Over two successful workshops, NICW has already brought together dozens of Canadian singers for memorable musical experiences in Nicaragua while establishing lasting artistic partnerships with local musicians.
NICW 2024
The Beginning
Twenty-four singers travelled to Nicaragua for the inaugural Nicaragua International Choral Workshop, combining choral singing, cultural discovery, and immersive travel in San Juan del Sur and Granada.
"One of the best trips I have taken because it combined my favourite things—making music, spending time on the ocean, and mingling with locals."
NICW 2026
Growing the Collaboration
Thirty-two participants returned to Nicaragua, expanding the workshop to new destinations while collaborating with Granada’s Coro Laudate and strengthening relationships with musicians and cultural partners across the country.
"Interacting with Coro Laudate was the highlight of the trip for me."
NICW 2027 The Next Chapter
Building on these successes, NICW 2027 will bring Canadian and Nicaraguan musicians together for the organization’s most ambitious collaboration yet, culminating in historic performances of Handel’s Messiah at the Rubén Darío National Theatre.
