What we’re about
The point of this meet-up is to develop an Austin Vocal Improv Community. Let’s get this started.
We will collaborate in a series of structured games that lead to layered, spontaneous a capella songs.
Our playing pieces are vocal loops, which we layer in different ways, depending upon the game. There’s more to it than that, but that’s the gist, and it’s even more fun than it sounds.
We will respond to one another, join, add or echo – all in the service of the collaborative song.
The vibe is Bobby Mcferrin Circlesong. (You must copy and paste into your browser)
There’s more to it than that, but come and learn more.
This event is free as long as it fits in my living room.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Oh, Why Not?Needs location
We were going to return to our regularly scheduled every-other week events this month, but we've been having so much fun, we couldn't resist. Last chance to score an invite to the potluck!
Want to see a Circlesong? Here's one led by Swiss facilitator, Jonas Viatte.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ejjf-h2Nf0In our group here in Austin, some of our songs are led by a facilitator like Jonas and others are group collaborations. Some of our songs come from the games which we play to strengthen our improvisational skills. All of them arise from the music we all have within us.
All levels of singers are welcome. There is room for you in this circle. We need more regular attendees.
Address provided upon RSVP. Near 6th and Lamar. Easy parking.
- How to Lead Circlesongs: 4-Session Zoom ClassLink visible for attendees
Register here for all four sessions:
June 8, 15, 22, and 29 / 7:-00- 8:30 pm. $100Live graduation! July 13 7-8:30 $25
HOW TO LEAD CIRCLESONGS: from Creative Spark to Skillful Weaving
Learn to spontaneously tap into the music already within you and make your own instant choir. You won’t believe how easy it is and how fun.
Circlesongs are layered, spontanteously-composed a capella pieces. Check out this Circlesong from Swiss leader, Jonas Viatte.
In four 90-minute interactive Zoom lessons you will be prepared to lead Circlesongs. Come together for an event with other Circlesong leaders, and you will see why this joyous music-making scene is booming world-wide.
Only $100 for the entire series. Yeah, you read that right. And it’s taught by Renee Benmeleh Everyone loves Renee!
C’mon y’all! It’s time for Austin to join this jam. Step into the circle.
CLASS DESCRIPTION
Four 90-minute interactive Zooms you can join from anywhere!Week 1: The Motor – We anchor ourselves into physical rhythm as we create the foundational element of circle singing.
Week 2: The Harmony – We challenge and expand our options of how to add harmony to a motor. including dynamics and space.
Week 3: The Bass – We explore traditional and non-traditional ways to integrate a bass part into the mix.
Week4 We add spice and sonic complexity with syncopation and the magic of interlocking parts.
ABOUT RENÉE.
Renée Benmeleh, born in Venezuela from Mediterranean ancestry, is a multi-cultural World, Jazz and Improvisation vocalist, composer, drummer, community music facilitator, ritual singer, and the founder/teaching artist at Sound Nourishment. She leads group workshops for the public, organizations, and Arts in Health, using mindful vocal/movement & improvised melody/rhythm games. In an inclusive environment supporting community connection, she facilitates vocal and rhythmic exploration and the expression of your authentic sound. - How to Lead Circlesongs: Part 2 of 4-Session Zoom ClassLink visible for attendees
Class in progress
Register for live live graduation! July 13 7-8:30 $25HOW TO LEAD CIRCLESONGS: from Creative Spark to Skillful Weaving
Learn to spontaneously tap into the music already within you and make your own instant choir. You won’t believe how easy it is and how fun.
Circlesongs are layered, spontanteously-composed a capella pieces. Check out this Circlesong from Swiss leader, Jonas Viatte.
In four 90-minute interactive Zoom lessons you will be prepared to lead Circlesongs. Come together for an event with other Circlesong leaders, and you will see why this joyous music-making scene is booming world-wide.
Only $100 for the entire series. Yeah, you read that right. And it’s taught by Renee Benmeleh Everyone loves Renee!
C’mon y’all! It’s time for Austin to join this jam. Step into the circle.
CLASS DESCRIPTION
90-minute interactive ZoomWeek 2: The Harmony – We challenge and expand our options of how to add harmony to a motor. including dynamics and space.
ABOUT RENÉE.
Renée Benmeleh, born in Venezuela from Mediterranean ancestry, is a multi-cultural World, Jazz and Improvisation vocalist, composer, drummer, community music facilitator, ritual singer, and the founder/teaching artist at Sound Nourishment. She leads group workshops for the public, organizations, and Arts in Health, using mindful vocal/movement & improvised melody/rhythm games. In an inclusive environment supporting community connection, she facilitates vocal and rhythmic exploration and the expression of your authentic sound.
