CircleSinging

Does singing bring you joy? Do you love to sing with others? Do you want to sing without the commitment of a choir?

Developed as an art form by Bobby McFerrin, CircleSinging is all about community, music and JOY! CircleSinging taps into ancient musical traditions where we create music together out of simple, repeated, interlocking patterns. Out of the simplest musical idea, we build something beautiful, groovy, transcendent and ephemeral. The best part is, it’s all made up on the spot. You don’t need to know how to improvise to do CircleSinging; all you need to bring is your voice and the innate music that you carry in your mind and body. Get ready to have some uplifting, spirit-nourishing FUN!

The next CircleSinging meetings (generally the first Sunday of the month) will be held in Ethel The Barn, 60 High Street in Southampton on the following dates:

• Sunday, July 2, 2023 at 2:00 pm

• Sunday, August 6, at 2:00 pm

• Sunday, September 10 at 2:00 pm (breaking the “first Sunday” rule due to Labor Day)

• Sunday, October 1 at 2:00 pm

• Sunday, November 5 at 2:00 pm

• Sunday, December 3 at 2:00 pm

Because of my focus on building community through music, the meetings/workshops are currently offered for a small, voluntary donation.

Group Vocal Technique

Interested in improving your singing or speaking voice but can’t commit to weekly lessons? This workshop is for you. In a 2-hour session, you will learn about breathing technique (the foundation of all good singing!), relaxation as well as healthy vocal techniques that will give your voice more power, stamina, range and control.

Participants will sing exercises together and short solo selections as the basis for technique improvement. You will will receive personalized feedback and suggestions for further development and work.

Musical Theater

Students will learn about the specific vocal techniques required for multiple genres of musical theater (Golden Age, contemporary, etc.). In addition, they will learn how to create an emotionally expressive performance.

Participants will sing vocal exercises together and work on MT repertoire that suits their voice. They will receive personalized feedback and suggestions for further development and work.

Musical Theater Audition Skills

Auditioning is a totally separate skill from performing and it’s important to know how to deliver an effective audition as well as the “do’s and don’ts” of the process. Students will have a chance to select music that is appropriate for their voice from multiple genres, as well as develop the “cuts” for an effective presentation. Students will also have the chance to practice an audition, from entering the room to the final exit, making them more confident for the next audition, whether for school, college or professional theater.

Group Improvisation

What do I mean by improvisation? What does improvisation bring to you?

Improvisation is the art of MSU: “Making Stuff Up” in the moment. You tap into your own innate musicality to create beauty in the moment and of the moment. Free and spontaneous, joyful and heartfelt, it can feel like flying! Here’s what my friend, Rosi Amador of Sol y Canto has to say about it:

“For me (improvisation) has become a spiritual practice that allows me to access my authenticity and I had no idea it would have this effect on me whenI began this journey a decade ago. When I participate in what is called “circle singing” with other singers I feel so joyful it’s hard to describe. I’m completely not in my head and simply following my heart and staying in the moment. For me it’s pure play and connection with others. It’s about listening deeply as well as taking risks and stepping forward.”