Blues Jam

We've got the songs, the charts, the enthusiasm and some of the people. All we need is more people and your enthusiasm and your song choices. All the standard elements of a Soul band plus orchestral instruments. Exploring the best Soul songs and the best arrangements - especially those featuring strings (violin, viola, cello), French horn, flute, brass, woodwinds, percussion, background vocals. Let's have fun learning and playing a bunch of great tunes from the Soul / R&B back catalogue. There will be well-known standards and lesser-known or even obscure gems chosen from anywhere in the entire history of R&B. This is for: lead vocals, backing vocals, guitars, bass, drums, keyboards, trumpet, trombone, French horn, flute, baritone sax, tenor sax, alto sax, woodwinds, violin, viola, cello, percussion. Visit the "Thursday" page of our new spreadsheet to see vacancies, current members, current repertoire, and to make and see suggestions for new repertoire: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Zb1cMKrOMDvxacsw9AoRRstkx-M7r_NIrF4tZJIREU0/edit?usp=sharing We'll learn some classic tunes by ear and play them. You do not need to be able to read music. Support is given in learning the parts (this may sometimes include written charts / tab). The workshop will be led by Andy Dummett. Andy has been privileged to play with a number of Soul legends including Stax, Atlantic and Motown recording artists - Eddie Floyd, Solomon Burke, Ben E King, Percy Sledge, Edwin Starr, Martha Reeves & the Vandellas, the Memphis Horns, Steve Cropper, Teenie Hodges, Sam Moore (Sam & Dave), Leon Ware, Dorothy Moore. Please check the studio's website for the latest Covid procedures: https://www.huskystudios.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Husky-Studios-Coronavirus-COVID-19-customer-guide.pdf Fees: Per session (drop-in): £15 Your fees include the group's costs for rehearsal studio rental and hire of mic's, PA, bass amp, guitar amps and drum kit. We will work towards a public performance. See our Calendar (http://www.meetup.com/London-Institute-of-Rhythm-Blues-Meetup/events/) for all Events http://www.meetup.com/London-Institute-of-Rhythm-Blues-Meetup/events/ To see details of individual Events (past and future), you can click through from the Calendar

We're back - after a summer break - and we want more voices and more instruments for our workshops and for our next public performance (optional, no pressure - but I know you'll love it). Ideal entry for singers new to our workshops. Classic Soul songs in full vocal arrangements with live band. Let's bring the backgrounds to the foreground (where they belong) and put them on an equal footing with the lead vocals. Visit the "Thursday" page of our new spreadsheet to see vacancies, current members, current repertoire, and to make and see suggestions for new repertoire: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Zb1cMKrOMDvxacsw9AoRRstkx-M7r_NIrF4tZJIREU0/edit?usp=sharing This is for you if you are: • a backing vocalist • a lead vocalist • a backing vocalist who wants to develop their lead vocal skills • a lead vocalist who wants to develop their backing vocal skills • a singer who wants to develop their percussion skills • a musician who wants to accompany singers and support them • a musician who wants to develop their own vocal skills • a guitarist, keyboard player, bass player, drummer, horn player, string player, percussionist Use your existing skills and develop new ones. The Soul repertoire offers an incredibly rich variety of vocal combinations. We will be able to choose songs to suit whatever combination of leads and backing vocals we get. Have fun singing essential, but often neglected elements of the arrangements. Vocal backgrounds play an important role in Soul - using call-and-response; creating variety of texture; defining sections of the song; differentiating repeats of the same section; building excitement. The workshop will be led by Andy Dummett. Andy has been privileged to play with many of the great singers, songwriters and musicians from Stax, Atlantic, Motown and more The way we use the studio has changed. This should be reassuring for those who are hesitant or cautious. Husky is a very Covid-secure venue and it’s important that all our members are protected, especially the most vulnerable. I would not be starting up again if I wasn’t confident in their procedures. Full details are available on the studio’s website: https://www.huskystudios.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Husky-Studios-Coronavirus-COVID-19-customer-guide.pdf Please read it all. It’s too long for me to copy it all here, but I’d like to draw your attention to some of the main points. · Wear a mask when you come in · Use the hand sanitiser at the entrance · Bring your own hand sanitiser for use in the room · Bring spare masks if you need them (they are available from the office – but for £5 each!) · Let me know you’re coming. If I’m expecting you, let me know if you’re not coming. · Let me have your phone number AND postcode for NHS Test & Trace · Microphones will be available and will have been disinfected. There is a deposit of £5 per mic, refunded on return · Microphone cables are not available. If you need to use a mic, please bring your own cable These workshops can support what you do in your own bands and in band workshops run by the Institute of Rhythm & Blues (http://www.meetup.com/London-Institute-of-Rhythm-Blues-Meetup/) Please check the studio's website for the latest Covid procedures: https://www.huskystudios.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Husky-Studios-Coronavirus-COVID-19-customer-guide.pdf Fees: Per session (drop-in): £15 Your fees include the group's costs for rehearsal studio rental and hire of mic's, PA, bass amp, guitar amps and drum kit. We will work towards a public performance. See our Calendar (http://www.meetup.com/London-Institute-of-Rhythm-Blues-Meetup/events/) for all Events http://www.meetup.com/London-Institute-of-Rhythm-Blues-Meetup/events/ To see details of individual Events (past and future), you can click through from the Calendar

Come along to Michelle's house in Bromley Common area for a guitar Club. Playing easy tunes, or whatever level is appropriate to the experience of those attending. Plus perhaps a bit of singing. All levels welcome. It's all about getting together and playing in a group of friends. Please bring your own guitar. Michelle is hoping to run this as a regular event every week. However you do not need to be a regular attendee to come along. All welcome. If you have any queries about the guitar club you can contact Michelle via meetup. Very important Please could you leave your mobile/ contact number in the space provided when you RSVP. This will be kept private.

Are you looking for a relaxed, social way to enjoy wine without the snobbery in the heart of West Norwood, perfect for locals? Am no wine expert, yet love bringing people together from all walks of life for great conversations, fun, great vibes and meeting new people. Am excited to be organising a simple but fun well-structured wine & cheese tasting. Most of our members attend events solo, so please do join us we are a friendly bunch. Join us for a **guided but casual wine & cheese tasting**, designed for curious drinkers, food lovers, and anyone who enjoys good conversation in a friendly atmosphere. Depending how it goes we may organise a monthly event as we explore a new theme, tasting **4 carefully selected wines paired with 4 complementary cheeses**, plus a welcome drink and tasting extras. No wine knowledge needed — just bring your palate. ### What’s Included ✔ Welcome sparkling wine ✔ 4-wine tasting flight includes ✔ 4 curated cheese pairings ✔ Bread, crackers & accompaniments ✔ Tasting card to guide you ✔ Relaxed, social hosting Socialising Meeting new people Coming out of your comfort zone Making new friends **Examples of wine on the day** 1. **Sparkling** – Prosecco or Cava 2. **White** – Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay 3. **Light Red** – Pinot Noir 4. **Full Red** – Malbec or Côtes du Rhône **Paired with examples of chesses on the day** | Soft & creamy | Brie, Camembert | | ------------- | --------------- | | Fresh | Goat’s cheese | | Semi-hard | Comté, Gruyère | | Hard & aged | Cheddar, Manchego | | Blue (optional) | Stilton, Gorgonzola | ### Format * Mingle & welcome drink * Guided tasting in rounds * Group discussion & voting * Social time at the end ### Perfect For • Friends • Solo guests • Couples • Wine beginners • Food lovers • Anyone who enjoys sociable evenings **PLEASE RSVP ONLY ONCE YOU HAVE MADE PAYMENT, IF YOU RSVP WITHOUT MAKING PAYMENT YOUR RSVP WILL CHANGE TO NOT GOING.** **PLEASE PAY VIA LINK AT GET A SOCIAL LIFE MEETUP BELOW** [Wine & Cheese Tasting In West Norwood , Thu, Mar 26, 2026, 7:00 PM | Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/passionate-about-travelling-food-and-events/events/313006555/?eventOrigin=notifications&notificationId=%3Cinbox%3E%2112493109-1769101236069) ### Tickets Non refundable unless cancelled **£30 early bird** **£35 standard** Limited spaces — booking essential. *** ## Background music, for get social vibes, mingle and get chatting ### Social Finish * 90s & 00s feel-good (lightly) * Motown classics * Easy danceable grooves **Venue** My Pop Events 4 Knights Hill SE27 0TY London Email contact@getasociallife.co.uk My number just in case 07957320516

**🔥 Join the Beat – Samba Practice in East London! 🥁🎶** Spring has sprung! Something creative. fun and sociable with a friends group of people? Our inclusive and friendly Samba band welcomes everyone—whether you're a seasoned percussionist or have never touched a drum before. No experience? No problem! We provide all the instruments and will have you grooving in no time. Feel the rhythm, meet great people, and be part of an electrifying sound that moves the streets. Just bring your enthusiasm—we’ll bring the drums! Ready to make some noise? See you there! 🔥🎶 Sambattalion is an established East London based Samba Fusion Band. We have been going for over ten years and use meetup as one way to recruit new members. We play gigs in and around London and beyond. Please bring ear plugs / ear protectors. We have some but if you can please bring your own - and wear them. We are very loud. We practice every Thursday, 7.00pm-10.00pm (with a 30 minute break) In January and early February 2026 we are tailoring our weekly practices specifically with new joiners in mind, and remember no experienced required! It is £5 per session (your first session is FREE). We are entirely not-for profit. Cash only please - pay on the day.

**Join us at Dr Johnson's House for an evening talk: 'Johnson, Crime and Punishment, in Four Cases'. Tickets include a welcome drink and chance to view Dr Johnson's House.** Join us for a fascinating exploration of Samuel Johnson's entanglements with ideas of criminality and causality. Four experts offer their insights into ways in which Johnson wrestled with wrongdoing, his own, as well as those of other people, and tried to stake out the terms of a shift in the way society addressed and corrected them. Crime was rife in Georgian London, but so too was punishment. In the eighteenth century, you could be hanged for more than 350 offences, including wounding a hawk, fraternizing with gypsies, and defacing some, (but not all) of London's bridges. People were sent to prison for being in debt as was the case with the poet Richard Savage; and street walkers were sent to Bridewells for 'correction', while those who paid them for their services went scot free. Samuel Johnson had a boundless compassion for people in desperate situations, and at the same time, an unwavering sense of Justice. All his life, he vied with the difficulty of reconciling these two pillars of his character, and of good society itself. How successful he was, and how far he influenced the shape of the century that followed, will comprise some of the questions that these series of short talks will raise. **Read more here:** [https://www.drjohnsonshouse.org/post/johnson-crime-punishment-four-cases](https://www.drjohnsonshouse.org/post/johnson-crime-punishment-four-cases) **MEET DETAILS:** **5.50pm: MEET OUTSIDE DR JOHNSON'S HOUSE** **Address:** 17 Gough Square, London, EC4A 3DE **6.00pm: ENTER DR JOHNSON'S HOUSE** **6.00-6.30pm:** Drinks **6.30-8.00 pm:** Talk **8.30pm - Late: PUB SOCIAL (optional)** We'll head to Ye Old Cheshire Cheese pub for a social chit chat over drinks. **Address:** 145 Fleet Street, London, EC4A 2BP **TICKETS:** **You MUST buy a ticket before you sign up to this event.** **Tickets are £20. Please book [here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/johnson-crime-and-punishment-in-four-cases-tickets-1977387943569).** There is limited capacity for the talk, so we'd recommend getting your ticket as soon as possible. Once tickets are sold out on the Dr Johnson's House website we will close the meetup event to RSVPs. **EVENT WHATSAPP GROUP:** Please join the event WhatsApp group to help you find the group on the day. Link tbc in the Event Comments at least 48 hours before the event. *NB* *Joining this WhatsApp group will make your phone number visible to other members in the group.* **IMPORTANT NOTE:** Please change your RSVP if you no longer attend this event. We remove members from the LoMAZ Meetup group who: * RSVP as 'Going' but then do not show up three times in a row. * RSVP as 'Going' but then change their RSVP to 'No' five times in a row. * Are on the Waitlist or who have not RSVPd, but turn up anyway. Thank you for your interest in the group & being part of LoMAZ.

Jazz Night returns Thursday, March 26th! Free entry and music from 7PM. Immerse yourself in our monthly jazz night! Whether it’s date night or a mid-week escape, we’ve got the perfect soundtrack, hand-crafted cocktails, and the best seats in Bethnal Green. **THE VENUE** The Angel & Crown is a funky, 70s-inspired pub with beautiful decor and an intimate feeling. Laugh the night away with our craft beers, hand-crafted cocktails and delicious food. Check our IG page------- **[@angel_and_crown_bethnal](https://www.instagram.com/angel_and_crown_bethnal/)** **TABLE BOOKINGS** If you fancy taking your night to the next level, book a table at **[angelandcrown.co.uk](https://www.angelandcrown.co.uk/)** and we'll make sure you have the best seats in the house.

Afternoon sessions, free and open to a public audience. Anyone can join in to play (or sing) - please put your name and instrument (or vocals) down on the sign up sheet, which will usually be on the downstairs bar. **New format: the open jam will start shortly after 3pm, open from the start to those who are dropping by to join us.** The house band will also play a couple of songs throughout the afternoon, including from the [future standards](https://www.vortexjazz.co.uk/event/future-standards-3-2024-04-14-2024-05-12-2024-06-09-2024-08-03/2024-09-22/) repertoire - which everyone is also encouraged to call. Contact me for sheet music. There will also be a possible break for a 30 minute novice+, improver or intermediate set. Many people also come to the open jam, who are looking to join a novice+ or intermediate rehearsal for the first time, so I can get a sense of your playing first. We'll likely go somewhere for food afterwards. See you then Xie

# **Please expand to read event setup** Max 25 participants can comfortably fit in the room at any one time with the following; * 3-5 vocalists * 5-6 guitarist * 1-3 bassists * NO MORE DRUMMERS PLS * 1-2 keys Participants will be called up to play songs they've noted on the Song list spreadsheet (link below) as priority. We go to our local pub for some karaoke afterwards! **The Jam Plan** Working on tunes from the Song List spreadsheet 2:30pm-4:30pm BREAK 4:30pm-6:30pm **Song list sheet:** Head over to the link below to nominate songs or put your name against existing songs on the list. [Link to spreadsheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1MFZSyioTvFhU3cipoh-CxLDB2Dgu7R2BXaW4G0Wg5nQ/edit?usp=sharing) # **What to bring on the day:** There will be a keyboard, drum kit, 4 mics, 1 bass amp and 2 guitar amps on the day. Singers: Bring along lyrics. Guitarist / Bassist: Bring along your instrument. Drummers: Drum kit and sticks are provided. Keys/piano players: Keyboard is provided. # **Considerations** 1. Jammers should come prepared for the songs they have chosen on the spreadsheet. 2. No shows or cancellations up to a week before the Jam will not be refunded. Ask the organizer for a refund if you cancel before then. 3. Spreadsheet: maximum 5 song nominations per person. Put your name on the 'Nominated By' column. 4. Guitarists: there will be a rig setup for each amp you will all be using this jig. We will plan ahead and agree who is bringing what pedal for the day. 5. Jammers doing very few songs will go on the waitlist. The cost is £12 pre-pay for the day, fees all go towards running The Jam.

**Update: full for drums, piano, 1 of 2 spots taken for bass, 1 of 3 spots taken for lead instruments (sax, trumpet, violin, flute)** **Please note 11am start for this session at 9M studios.** *Please only sign up if your instrument (or vocals) is not indicated above as full for this session.* *\*\* The 9M Studios sessions are now 3 hours long. The group is encouraged to use the last hour to call additional songs that are not on the repertoire list - similar to an open jam, or to experiment with arrangements such as intros and endings for the original repertoire. \*\** full list of scheduled sessions: https://www.meetup.com/Practice-Jazz-Jam-Sessions/events/ **What is it** The novice rehearsal sessions provide an opportunity for people who are relatively new to jazz, to play in a friendly, low-pressure environment. With a short set list that attendees can prepare in advance, it becomes a little less daunting to play and get the most out of practising in a group. See below for this week's setlist. Please sign up before attending. already full for your instrument? Please check back on Wednesday mornings, when new sessions go live. If you keep not being able to get a spot, please message the organiser (Xie). Location: 9M Studios, SE17 1DX **Who's it for** anyone who has practised following the forms (chord progressions) of jazz tunes - maybe on their own at home - and would like to build up playing experience, expand repertoire and practice performing with other musicians. There are various introductions on how jazz jams work - see e.g. https://jazznightschool.org/pages/jam-session-basics You don't need to get all these details right for these novice practice sessions. The set list format should offer opportunities for those at different levels of developing their playing. While at the beginning one might struggle to follow/comp the chords or play through the melody, it gets easier over time and one can start to develop approaches to improvisation, harmonise lead lines, add intros/endings, work on communication between band members, and even listen to recordings together and pick up specific arrangements. Bass players are expected to be able to play a walking bass line on swing tunes, and simple bossa lines for bossa novas. Playing the melody, or "head" - the responbility is shared between horns players (e.g. sax, trumpet, violin), guitar and piano. Feel free to discuss among the group before each song - different parts of the head or the starting / ending heads can be played by different players. Some melodies will better suit several voices at the same time, whereas others are sensitive to variations in how they are played and may prefer a single instrument at a time. **What it's like** A relaxed and welcoming atmosphere - please put aside any worries of making mistakes if you’re thinking of joining us for the first time. To ensure the group is accessible for those at different levels, I ask that each novice session should work on only the below four songs of the set list, unless each and every attendee feels they prefer to move on. Each novice session is limited to up to: 1 drummer, 2 bass, 2 keys, 2 guitar, 3/4 lead instruments. Always use the top of the description to see if there is an available slot for your instrument - please do not try to work this out yourself by looking at the other attendees' instruments. **Tunes this week (Sun Mar 29)** * Take the A train in C (warm up) (Vache, Allen) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8JJv13K3WU * Work Song in Fm (Cannonball & Nat Adderley) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlepuNi40M8 * In Walked Bud in Ab (Chad LB) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHX_5H80WBk * Softly as in a morning sunrise in Cm (Chad LB) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ks9lzgh-NdI Everyone is encouraged to listen to a variety of recordings for each song, but please ensure you are familiar with the recording provided as a primary reference. (Note the recordings provide stylistic reference, but may not be in the key listed, with the latter based on common real books) **Tune preview - next novice session (Sat Apr 4)** * Bags' Groove in F (warm up) (Emmet Cohen) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uICkruoxRv0 * Poinciana in D (Scott Hamilton) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_h3RWVeTlGM * Summertime in Am (Herbie Hancock) (Chet Baker) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Y3FfjESXpU * Have you Met Miss Jones? in F (Stan Getz) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4aFcaAwOPU **Preparing for the session** The chordal form of each song follow the iReal Pro app as a common reference, or you can use sheet music from Real Books. Resource for sheet music: https://www.seventhstring.com/fbindex.html http://therealbook.info/ Try to immerse yourself in the songs by listening to recordings by different artists on youtube, spotify etc. Learn the head (main melody) of the song if you can. Don't hesitate to let the band know you can play it so you can start things off **Playing well together** The rehearsal groups are often quite large for a jazz ensemble setting. Please follow the below arrangements, which are designed to help the group be mindful of each other's volumes, and to build good habits for playing as a group * Every tune should be played at least twice. Swap the bass, piano and guitar players between the two renditions (if there are two attending) * Only one guitarist should comp - i.e. play chords - for each rendition (both guitarists can solo, and comp without amplification) * After each rendition of the warm up tune, the whole group should take a moment together and help each other to check on volumes, including: \*\* Can everyone hear themselves? \*\* Are the drums too loud? \*\* Can everyone hear the bass? \*\* Is the guitar comping too loud? \*\* Is the piano loud enough? (staff at the office can turn this up) \*\* Feel free to revisit volumes after subsequent songs * For any song, if at least two people in the group feel it would be better, the guitar and piano should share the choruses for comping (instead of comping together) - e.g. guitar comps the first time through the head, then piano, then guitar, etc. **Equipment** there is a piano, drum kit (no cymbals or high hat clutch), bass and guitar amps, and microphones. Limited number of music stands. Drummers: please bring cymbals (none available for rental) and hi hat clutch **Percussion** Percussionists are welcome to join with their instruments, alongside the drummer. Feel free to sign up to any session, even one that says "full for all instruments" at the top, unless it explicitly mentions "full for percussion". **Vocalists** singers very welcome though usually I suggest you come to the intermediate sessions where you can pick your own song and key (as chances are many of the above are not in the right key for your range) **Cancellation policy** Please try to make it to any session you sign up to, as the jams are organised around a particular mix of instruments. However, if things do come up and you can no longer make a session, please send a message to the organiser, Xie, as soon as possible. Places are non-refundable if your plans change, but if you provide over 1 week notice it may be possible to carry over the fee for a future session. \-\-\-\- any questions do get in touch!

**Update: full for drums, bass, guitar, 2 of 3 spots taken for lead instruments** 1-2.50pm: rehearsal, Vortex downstairs 2.50-4pm rehearsal, Vortex upstairs 5-6pm: 30 minute performance, Vortex downstairs Please plan for 10 minutes to set up, and a 20 minute performance. To fit within the time, likely plan for either short renditions of all 4 songs, or longer versions of 2-3 tunes. The group should collaboratively work on the overall sound of the ensemble, which songs go in the 20 minute set, and other details such as how to start/end tunes and particular arrangements. There will not be an assigned lead for the group. Note: ensure you've practised these songs before the session. This includes confidently playing the head if you are playing lead instrument, common motifs for comping instruments and any specific bass lines or rhythms. Listen to a few versions of each song. Ideally be able to play the melody even if you're on guitar or piano. Attendees would be expected to be comfortable playing at a novice session first before signing up. Please join one of the weekend afternoon open jams first to play a few songs with other in the group. full list of scheduled sessions: [https://www.meetup.com/Practice-Jazz-Jam-Sessions/events/](https://www.meetup.com/Practice-Jazz-Jam-Sessions/events/) **What is it** a pre-selected set of jazz standards for each session that you can prepare for in advance, and rehearse live with others in a friendly and welcoming environment. See below for this week's setlist. Location: Vortex downstairs & upstairs The instruments are limited to up to: 1 drummer, 1 bass, 1 keys, 1 guitar, 3 lead instruments. The top of the description will indicate if there is an available slot for your instrument. Playing the melody, or "head" - the responsibility is shared between horns players (e.g. sax, trumpet), guitar and piano. Feel free to discuss among the group before each song - different parts of the head or the starting / ending heads can be played by different players. Some melodies will better suit several voices at the same time, whereas others are sensitive to variations in how they are played and may prefer a single instrument at a time. **Tunes this week (March 29th)** * Maiden Voyage (Herbie Hancock) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWC5x9G45yo * A Remark You Made (Weather Report) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=boNCY0Ai44M lead sheet - https://therealbook.info/view/index/795/ * 500 Miles High (Stan Getz) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aulS_2peOaE * Gloria's Step (Evans, LaFaro) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOtTTFm-G4M Everyone is encouraged to listen to a variety of recordings for each song, but please ensure you are familiar with the recordings provided as primary references. **Preparing for the session** The chordal form of each song follow the iReal Pro app as a common reference, or you can use sheet music from Real Books. Resource for sheet music: [https://www.seventhstring.com/fbindex.html](https://www.seventhstring.com/fbindex.html) [http://therealbook.info/](http://therealbook.info/) Try to immerse yourself in the songs by listening to recordings by different artists on youtube, spotify etc. Learn the head (main melody) of the song if you can. Don't hesitate to let the band know you can play it so you can start things off **Equipment** there is a piano, drum kit (no cymbals or high hat clutch), bass and guitar amps, stands, and microphones. Drummers: please bring cymbals (none available for rental) and hi hat clutch **Vocalists** singers very welcome though usually I suggest you come to the intermediate sessions where you can pick your own song and key (as chances are many of the above are not in the right key for your range) **Cancellation policy** Payment by bank transfer for both sessions. No refund will be provided if you can no longer make either of the sessions. If one or both sessions are cancelled, a pro rata or full refund will be provided. \-\-\-\-\- any questions do get in touch!

**Update: full for all instruments (spot remains for vocals)** *Please only sign up if your instrument (or vocals) is not indicated above as full for this session.* full list of scheduled sessions: https://www.meetup.com/Practice-Jazz-Jam-Sessions/events/ **What is it** The novice rehearsal sessions provide an opportunity for people who are relatively new to jazz, to play in a friendly, low-pressure environment. With a short set list that attendees can prepare in advance, it becomes a little less daunting to play and get the most out of practising in a group. See below for this week's setlist. Please sign up before attending. Already full for your instrument? Please check back every other Wednesday, when new sessions go live. If you keep not being able to get a spot, please message the organiser (Xie). Location: Vortex downstairs **Who's it for** Anyone who has practised following the forms (chord progressions) of jazz tunes - maybe on their own at home - and would like to build up playing experience, expand repertoire and practice performing with other musicians. There are various introductions on how jazz jams work - see e.g. https://jazznightschool.org/pages/jam-session-basics You don't need to get all these details right for these novice practice sessions. The set list format should offer opportunities for those at different levels of developing their playing. While at the beginning one might struggle to follow/comp the chords or play through the melody, it gets easier over time and one can start to develop approaches to improvisation, harmonise lead lines, add intros/endings, work on communication between band members, and even listen to recordings together and pick up specific arrangements. Bass players are expected to be able to play a walking bass line on swing tunes, and simple bossa lines for bossa novas. Playing the melody, or "head" - the responsibility is shared between horns players (e.g. sax, trumpet, violin), guitar and piano. Feel free to discuss among the group before each song - different parts of the head or the starting / ending heads can be played by different players. Some melodies will better suit several voices at the same time, whereas others are sensitive to variations in how they are played and may prefer a single instrument at a time. **What it's like** A relaxed and welcoming atmosphere - please put aside any worries of making mistakes if you’re thinking of joining us for the first time. To ensure the group is accessible for those at different levels, I ask that each novice session should work on only the below four songs of the set list, unless each and every attendee feels they prefer to move on. Each novice session is limited to up to: 1 drummer, 2 bass, 2 keys, 2 guitar, 3/4 lead instruments. Always use the top of the description to see if there is an available slot for your instrument - please do not try to work this out yourself by looking at the other attendees' instruments. **Tunes this week (Sun Mar 29)** * Take the A train in C (warm up) (Vache, Allen) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8JJv13K3WU * Work Song in Fm (Cannonball & Nat Adderley) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlepuNi40M8 * In Walked Bud in Ab (Chad LB) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHX_5H80WBk * Softly as in a morning sunrise in Cm (Chad LB) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ks9lzgh-NdI Everyone is encouraged to listen to a variety of recordings for each song, but please ensure you are familiar with the recording provided as a primary reference. (Note the recordings provide stylistic reference, but may not be in the key listed, with the latter based on common real books) **Tune preview - next novice session (Sat Apr 4)** * Bags' Groove in F (warm up) (Emmet Cohen) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uICkruoxRv0 * Poinciana in D (Scott Hamilton) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_h3RWVeTlGM * Summertime in Am (Herbie Hancock) (Chet Baker) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Y3FfjESXpU * Have you Met Miss Jones? in F (Stan Getz) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4aFcaAwOPU **Preparing for the session** The chordal form of each song follow the iReal Pro app as a common reference, or you can use sheet music from Real Books. Resource for sheet music: https://www.seventhstring.com/fbindex.html http://therealbook.info/ Try to immerse yourself in the songs by listening to recordings by different artists on youtube, spotify etc. Learn the head (main melody) of the song if you can. Don't hesitate to let the band know you can play it so you can start things off **Playing well together** The rehearsal groups are often quite large for a jazz ensemble setting. Please follow the below arrangements, which are designed to help the group be mindful of each other's volumes, and to build good habits for playing as a group * Every tune should be played at least twice. Swap the bass, piano and guitar players between the two renditions (if there are two attending) * Only one guitarist should comp - i.e. play chords - for each rendition (both guitarists can solo, and comp without amplification) * After each rendition of the warm up tune, the whole group should take a moment together and help each other to check on volumes, including: \*\* Can everyone hear themselves? \*\* Are the drums too loud? \*\* Can everyone hear the bass? \*\* Is the guitar comping too loud? \*\* Is the piano loud enough? (staff at the office can turn this up) \*\* Feel free to revisit volumes after subsequent songs * For any song, if at least two people in the group feel it would be better, the guitar and piano should share the choruses for comping (instead of comping together) - e.g. guitar comps the first time through the head, then piano, then guitar, etc. **Equipment** there is a piano, drum kit (no cymbals or high hat clutch), bass and guitar amps, stands, and microphones. Drummers: please bring cymbals (none available for rental) and hi hat clutch **Vocalists** Singers are welcome, however please note that the songs have fixed keys, and some of the repertoire are likely not in the right key for your range. If you are an experienced singer, it may be possible to arrange sessions with repertoire catered to you - to explore this, please first come to the "Afternoon Open Jams" so I can get a sense of your singing. **Percussion** Percussionists are welcome to join with their instruments, alongside the drummer. Feel free to sign up to any session, even one that says "full for all instruments" at the top, unless it explicitly mentions "full for percussion". **Observing** Would you like to attend a session without playing/singing, to get an idea of the format or to get a sense of what to practise first at home? You can sign up as usual to any novice session, and send me a message that you'd like only to watch the session. When you feel ready, the fee paid can be carried over toward any future session where you join to play or sing at the rehearsal. **Cancellation policy** Please try to make it to any session you sign up to, as the jams are organised around a particular mix of instruments. However, if things do come up and you can no longer make a session, please send a message to the organiser, Xie, as soon as possible. Places are non-refundable if your plans change, but if you provide over 1 week notice it may be possible to carry over the fee for a future session. \-\-\-\-\- any questions do get in touch!

**IT'S BACK!** We're sure you are all familiar with The MOBO Awards? Well, NAPTG are so excited in teaming up with none other than the founder of The Mobo Awards 'Ms Kanya King *CBE*' on her new adventure for a second time. **HOUSE OF MOBO** Restaurant \| Bar \| Lounge 255 Gipsy Road, Gypsy Hill, London SE27 9QY ...a brand new venue in south London. Come and join us for a night called ***'Never Too Much'*** Friday 27th March 2026 from 8pm until midnight Check out some of the fun we had on the first night singing along to Classic Soul and R&B [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpJPzonkF2g](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpJPzonkF2g) FOOD \| MUSIC \| DRINKS You can endulge in tasty African dishes prepared by THE FLYGERIANS Music on the night from 8pm until midnight is played by JERRY BASCOMBE with special guest DJ 'Shaq D' bringing back memories of the 70s 80s 90s 00s era **SOUL FUNK DISCO RNB** with a splice of Reggae, Afrobeats & Soca. Dance tickets in advance are available online at Need A Place To Go and Eventbrite plus booking fee. Tickets are £10 per person Last month was sold out, so get your tickets in advance. For more information log onto the website or call 0208 123 1262 \| 07944 023 493 **[https://www.needaplacetogo.co.uk/house-of-mobo](https://www.needaplacetogo.co.uk/house-of-mobo)**

Hi All **In all seriousness, this is the most fantastic Sunday night lined up in Hoxton for you.** Ive been promoting 15 years and have seen so much and you would never get the opportunity to see four such outstanding artists brought together this way in a tiny up close and personal show - definitely do not miss this one. Hosted at the most gloriously quirky and much loved Folklore Hoxton is worth a visit in itself!! The only venue in London complete with its own cat and fish tank!! **Foxpalmer** is a London based Artist with a unique blend of rock, Americana style folk and lush indie, sound striking and captivating as it is different. In 2025 she has opened for Dodgy, Mark Morris and Sandi Thom, and toured the UK with award-winning Prog trio Blackheart Orchestra. **[Watch Foxpalmer Here](https://youtu.be/CoSfCMJFNv8?si=7W1izfSCmn3jPWpl)** Name-checked by Coldplay, **Si Connelly** is emotive, raw and memorable live. A hugely prolific songwriter/lyricist and touring artist, he has drawn comparison to the great Jeff Buckley, and name-checked by Coldplay. "Ive worked with the best. The best singers I have worked with? Mick Jagger, Amy Winehouse and Si Connelly. You wont have heard of him …. yet.” - Dom Morley, Grammy award-winning producer. **[Watch Si Connelly Here](https://youtu.be/sDH1o6sw_L0?si=JuOP_-_lXqZf15OR)** English-Columbian singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and touring artist **Vanessa Forero** is a gorgeous combination of folk, soul and gospel. A recognised composer of film scores too, her songs are sensitive and emotive full of full flowing positivity. **[Watch Vanessa Forero Live](https://youtu.be/q0SoKF_VGi0?si=EK4jGcjhqN8A4XSH)** New Zealander **Suze Harper** melds jazz, soul, blues, pop, and classical roots. Leaving a career in law behind to acknowledge herself as a singer-songwriter, her classic songwriting, evocative lyricism and natural presence is captivating. **[Watch Suze Harper Here](https://youtu.be/HOsQNHetZ14?si=lumpoESSH_I2U8iX)** As ever we have a discount for you all - quote discount code **LONDONLIVE** for £9.50 tickets instead of £13.50! **[BOOK YOUR. TICKETS](https://link.dice.fm/Da854e989e89)** I really hope we can bring some music lovers through to join us for this one, its a truly special one. Lorraine xx

**Midwest Funk Jam – OhioLockers** A monthly gathering dedicated to **locking, popping, and funk dance culture** in Columbus. We start with a **free fundamentals**, then open the floor for a **dance session and cypher**. Whether you're new to funk styles or an experienced dancer, this is a space to learn, practice, and connect with the Midwest dance community. Hosted by **FlexyStu & DJ Vix** 📍 Oracle Bar 🗓 Last Thursday of every month ⏰ 8:30 PM – 10:30 PM 💸 Free entry 🅿️ Free street parking right outside 🔞 18+ 8:30 – Free Locking & Popping fundamentals class 9:00 – Open dance session & cypher All levels welcome. **Session → Cypher → Funk** IG@Ohiolockers [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1426377732280863/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT](https://www.facebook.com/groups/1426377732280863/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT)

**Caller: Kim Thompson** **Band: Full Moon Country Dance Orchestra** **Clinton Heights Lutheran Church** **15 Clinton Heights Ave, Columbus, OH 43202** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle.

Ready for a night of music, laughter, and fun? Join us at Thunderwing Brewery for Music Bingo — a lively twist on classic bingo where songs replace numbers and good vibes are guaranteed! RSVP to secure your spot. Text Renee (614-257-9389). (Headcount needed to make sure staffing can accommodate the group) Arrive early to get a seat - **bring a camping chair for extra seating.** Often the brewery has food trucks or you can bring in your own food. Bonus - You can bring your dog!

Interested in seeing what The Alliance has been working on in 2026? Come be our practice audience as we prepare to sing at JAD/CAR Preliminary Contest! We will be debuting our brand new contest set, and you won't want to miss it! Our chapter quartets, Intermission Quartet and Coffee Talk will also be performing! This is a free event!

A fun way to compare wines from two different countries at a time. House Wine is squaring off two countries' wines against each other each Thursday in March. March 12, March 19, March 26, and the Finals April 2nd. Meet and Greet format....show up after 7pm, pay your $15 at the cash register, get your wine glass, and enjoy. I will get a table reserved for the group. Remember, you may bring in your own food or takeout. Attendance is your agreement to the Group's Waiver of Liability terms. See our Group homepage for details. Parking is tough at House Wine; there is a municipal lot one-half block north of the shop and sometimes parking at the lot behind Jet Pizza, accessed by the lane between the east House Wine parking lot and the residence to the east.