Cookie Settings
sluiten

Mongolian Instrument-Building Retreat

Immerse yourself in Mongolian music, craft, and culture while creating 3 traditional instruments: the Ikel Khuur, Tovshuur, and Tsuur — under the guidance of master musician and instrument maker Baatarsuren at Rolandshof (Winkelsett, Germany).
3 Sep
-
6 Sep
4 days / 3 nights
Now
7
of the
7
spots available
Winkelsett, Germany
Tickets

With Baatarsuren: build, play, and explore the instruments of Western Mongolia

Baatarsuren (1978) is a master throat singer and instrument maker from Khovd, Western Mongolia.Renowned for his expertise in Mongolian instruments — including the Ikel Khuur, Morin Khuur and Tovshuur as well as traditional drums and flutes.

During this retreat, you will build 3 traditional instruments from Western Mongolia:

  • the Tovshuur (a 2-stringed plucked instrument),
  • the Ikel Khuur (a bowed instrument with a skin-covered soundbox),
  • and the Tsuur (a 3-holed flute played with a vocal drone).

Together, these instruments are considered jewels of Western Mongolian musical tradition. Through hands-on work, you will not only build them, but also learn how they are played and understood within their cultural context.

Set in Rolandshof, an artist-run creative space, this retreat invites you to slow down, enter a creative flow, and connect deeply with material, sound, and tradition.

A unique opportunity to craft your own traditional Mongolian instruments and explore throat singing with a true master of music and instrument making.

Tip: Here’s our blog post about this very retreat — and why this week is unlike anything else in the world. We share personal insights, stories, and what makes it such a rare opportunity to be part of.
Read the blog post
De locatie van de retraite in Ter Wupping

What makes this retreat unique?

  • Build Three Instruments: Create your own Tovshuur, Ikel Khuur, and Tsuur — a rare opportunity to explore multiple facets of Mongolian musical tradition.
  • Full Immersion: A deep dive into Mongolian music, combining instrument building, throat singing, and cultural context.
  • Professional Guidance: Learn directly from Baatarsuren, master musician and instrument maker.
  • All-Inclusive: Accommodation, meals, workshops, and materials included — allowing full focus on the experience.
  • Creative Environment: Rolandshof offers a unique setting dedicated to craftsmanship, art, and creative flow.
  • Nature & Art: Surrounded by sculpture gardens and Swiss landscapes that inspire focus and creativity.
  • Small-Scale & Personal: Maximum 10–12 participants for deep learning and personal guidance.

Program – an overview of your unique musical retreat.

Day-to-Day Program.

The 4-day retreat is designed to guide you step by step in building three traditional instruments from Western Mongolia: the Tovshuur, Ikel Khuur, and Tsuur. The program remains flexible and may adapt to the group’s pace and dynamics. More detailed schedules will follow closer to the retreat.

  • Day 1: Welcome and arrival, introduction to Mongolian instruments and culture, and the start of building your instruments.
  • Day 2–3: Hands-on workshops with Baatarsuren, learning essential techniques for crafting and understanding each instrument.
  • Day 4: Final adjustments, basic playing techniques, and shared music sessions.

Participants leave with three self-made instruments, new musical skills, and deep cultural insights. Between workshops, there is time to relax, connect, and make music together.

Meet the team.

Baatarsuren

Master throat singer, multi-instrumentalist, and traditional instrument maker from Western Mongolia. Teaches and shares centuries-old Mongolian music and craft.

Rowan Hartsuiker

Musician, teacher, and co-founder of Altai. Specialized in throat singing and player of instruments such as the Morin Khuur, Tovshuur, Altai Harp, and jaw harp.

Saran Hartsuiker

Co-founder of Altai alongside Rowan. Prepares all meals with love and creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere throughout the retreat.

And we wouldn't be able to realize this retreat without the extra help of:

No items found.

The location of the retreat.

The Location: Rolandshof

Our retreat takes place at Rolandshof – Skulptur-Graphik, an artist-run creative space in Biberstein, Germany. Surrounded by forest and open land, Rolandshof offers an immersive and inspiring environment to learn, create, and focus. The property includes a sculpture garden and studio spaces, where hands-on artistic work is central to the philosophy of the space.

Here, you’ll experience a rare combination of craft, art, and personal development, perfectly aligned with the retreat’s goals: making your own Ikel Khuur while being guided into a state of creative flow.

Bedrooms

Please note that this retreat does not offer private bathrooms or toilets. Our team ensures that all shared facilities are cleaned daily to maintain comfort and hygiene.

  • 1 x Single Room: Small bedroom with a single bed.
  • 4 x Double Rooms: Each with a double bed. Can be booked for one or two persons.
  • 1 x Room with 2 Double Beds: Can be used by up to four participants.
  • Smith Wagon: Sleep in a unique “forge on wheels,” equipped with a bed and heater for cozy nights.
  • Camper Space: Plenty of room for your own camper; additional toilet and shower available on-site. (Contact us for options!)

Check prices for each option here

The Garden

The expansive grounds of Rolandshof provide a peaceful and inspiring setting for relaxation, creativity, and connection. Meander through the sculpture garden, find a quiet spot among the trees, or gather at one of the outdoor seating areas or large tables for conversation and reflection.

For those who want to move, play, or simply enjoy the outdoors, there is plenty of open space to stretch, practice music, or explore the surrounding paths.

Prices

Single Room (Private Room)

Small bedroom with a single bed: €1,200 per person

Double Room

Each with a double bed, can be booked for one or two persons: €1,200 for one person in a double bed. 50% off for the second person if sharing (ideal for couples!)

Room with 2 Double Beds

Can accommodate up to 4 participants: €1,000 per person. 50% off for the second person if sharing a bed (ideal for couples!).

Smith Wagon

Unique “forge on wheels,” equipped with a bed and heater: €900 per person (single occupancy only)

Camper Space

Bring your own camper; additional toilet and shower on-site: €900 per camper (Contact us for options!)

Note: Discounts for shared beds are designed to encourage couples booking together and make the best use of our double-bed rooms.

All prices always include:

  • 4 days (3 nights) accommodation at Rolandshof
  • 3 meals per day (freshly prepared, largely vegetarian)
  • Fruit, snacks, coffee, tea, and drinks
  • Daily hands-on workshops in instrument building, Mongolian music, and throat singing
  • All materials and tools needed to build your Tovshuur, Ikel Khuur, and Tsuur
  • Personal guidance throughout the full building process
  • Lesson materials and instructions
  • Time to explore the sculpture garden and surrounding nature
  • Evening gatherings, music sessions, and shared experiences
FAQs
Is there a duo price if I come with my partner or friend?
My partner/friend wants to join, but not participate in the workshops. Is that possible?

Sounds interesting?

Coming soon: Our detailed PDF presentation.

Fill out the form below to let us know you are interested in possibly joining this retreat. We'll keep you updated and send the PDF as soon as it's ready!

Want to learn more? Download our detailed PDF presentation below.

Are you ready for a musical journey filled with sound, nature, and connection? Download our detailed PDF-presentation below.