Choir

New members welcome. We are a 4 part choir with a life-affirming, humanist focus. We're a friendly bunch, and the singers in your section will help you get started and feel welcome. New members will be able to borrow printed music. We do perform both formally and informally, and our varied repertoire supports this. For regular attendees, please print out your music, which is available in the [members section of our site](https://london.humanistchoir.org/groups/library/buddydrive/). If you need access, contact Laurence. ([members@london.humanistchoir.org](mailto:members@london.humanistchoir.org)). For more information see the [Join Us](https://london.humanistchoir.org/join/) page , or listen to the choir on our [YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@LondonHumanistChoir). We always allow potential members to try us out for a couple of weeks. We do not hold auditions. By all means message with any queries. **Term Dates (6 a year) SPRING/SUMMER 2026** * * THIS TERM - Tuesday 14 April until 19 May * TERM AFTER THAT - 2 June to EARLY JULY Current repertoire: Yesterday (Beatles) Gold (from Once) Think About Things Obladi Oblada (Beatles) Too Sweet When the Earth Stands Still more to come

**This talk starts at 7 PM, please join us from 6:30 PM.** **The science behind paranormal phenomena** Opinion polls show the majority of the general public accepts that paranormal phenomena do occur. Such widespread experience of and belief in the paranormal can only mean one of two things. Either the paranormal is real, in which case this should be accepted by the wider scientific community which currently rejects such claims; or else belief in and experience of ostensibly paranormal phenomena can be fully explained in terms of psychological factors. **Psychological and physical explanations** This presentation will provide an introduction to the sub-discipline of anomalistic psychology, which may be defined as the study of extraordinary phenomena of behaviour and experience, in an attempt to provide non-paranormal explanations in terms of known psychological and physical factors. This approach will be illustrated with examples relating to a range of ostensibly paranormal phenomena. **Our Speaker** **Chris French** is Emeritus Professor in the Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths, University of London, where, up until 2024, he was also Head of the Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit. He retired from Goldsmiths in 2020. He is a Fellow of the British Psychological Society and of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry, and a patron of Humanists UK. He has published over 200 articles and chapters covering a wide range of topics within psychology. His main area of research is the psychology of paranormal beliefs and anomalous experiences. He writes for the *Guardian* and the *Skeptic* magazine. His most recent book is *[The Science of Weird Shit: Why Our Minds Conjure the Paranormal](https://amzn.eu/d/0dFVfCYG)*[ (2024, MIT Press)](https://amzn.eu/d/0dFVfCYG). **Post event social** As after all our in-person talks at the Old Diorama Arts Centre, we will move on to a local pub for a post event social. So from 8:30 PM we will be going to the [Queen's Head and Artichoke](https://maps.app.goo.gl/nXy9yvWcywRM1Hir6), 30-32 Albany St, London NW1 4EA. **Payment** We ask for a **£5 donation to attend** this talk, which can be paid on the door. (Or pay what you can afford.) If you would prefer to make the £5 donation online or can't attend and would still like to support the event [p](https://checkout.square.site/merchant/ML71XMH66FX5E/checkout/ALWCDLQ3S7AVPLFZ62PZGXLU)[lease click here](https://square.link/u/yIrpwGDk). Alternatively you can do a transfer using our account details: Central London Humanist Group, Sort code: 30-94-25, Account number: 19143068, Reference: Talk Beacon **Please note this event will be recorded and we will take photos for publication on CLH media channels. If you do not wish to be featured in video or photographs please contact the CLH team in advance or make us aware at the event.** **Resources and FAQs** …for members, supporters, and participants in CLH activities See [here for our knowledge base](https://clhorganisers.notion.site/Central-London-Humanists-knowledge-base-7ff2374eee1e43c0938123e894f37e5f) packed with important, useful information about the group, the organisers, and what we offer the community. See [here for our code of conduct and complaints policy](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Reeh69cv38DHeBnexNwOAKoeRb2dwDM3k9xaJ2tM5EA/mobilebasic). **Our events are 18+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian**. We encourage dialogue, debate, and sharing of information, but ask people to keep their comments cordial. Any individual's views expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the group at large.

🎤 **Join Our Free Public Speaking Class in Central London** * 🌟 Are you struggling with public speaking or experiencing anxiety about it? * 👉 Attend our in-person public speaking class, suitable for beginners to advanced speakers, absolutely FREE as a guest! *You don't need to speak - just observe and learn, or participate if you feel ready.* **Why Attend Our Public Speaking Class?** * 💪 **Overcome Public Speaking Fear** Central London Toastmasters is the premier weekly public speaking club, offering a relaxed and supportive environment. Practice in a safe space where no one judges you, and start your journey to becoming a confident speaker. * ✨ **Become a Charismatic Speaker** Enhance your public speaking skills and develop the charisma you've always wanted. Impress your colleagues with smooth, polished presentations and wow your friends with newfound confidence and storytelling abilities. * 💼 **Improve Business Speaking Skills** Our meetings are friendly and informal, making them the perfect starting point for building confidence in public speaking. Many of our members began with anxiety, but now speak with total confidence. As a guest, you’ll see firsthand how warm and welcoming our club is, and you can chat with members about their experiences. * 🏆 **Develop Leadership Skills** Public speaking is not just about presenting; it's also about leading. Our club provides opportunities to take on leadership roles, helping you to develop crucial skills like team management, decision-making, and strategic thinking that can benefit your personal and professional life. 📅 **Location and Time** * 📍 Location: Cittie of Yorke pub, Holborn * ⏰ Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM (Feel free to arrive late and quietly take a seat) 🔄 **What to Expect at Our Meetings** * The meeting is divided into two halves, each lasting approximately 50 minutes, with a 10-minute break. * 🎯 First Half: Members participate in impromptu speeches, and guests are invited to introduce themselves by name. * 📈 Second Half: Members deliver prepared speeches followed by evaluations. * After the meeting, we enjoy drinks and informal chats, providing a great opportunity to network and learn more about the club. 🎟️ **Interested in Becoming a Member?** Membership includes access to our online course, Pathways, guiding you step-by-step through your public speaking journey. A full year’s membership, covering 50 weekly meetings, is just £168, plus a one-time £30 registration fee. **💬 Testimonials from Our Members** * **“Toastmasters transformed my life!”** "I went from fearing public speaking to leading meetings at work. This newfound confidence even earned me a promotion!" – **Alexander** * **"A warm and supportive club!"** "From the first meeting, I felt welcomed. The constructive feedback boosted my confidence both in public speaking and daily life." – **Sarah** * **"Overcoming my fear was easier than I thought."** "The support here made my sales presentations more impactful and less stressful. It's been a game-changer for me professionally." – **David** * **"A fun and rewarding experience."** "I look forward to every meeting. The sessions are engaging, and I love the socializing afterward." – **Lucy** * **"I've grown as a speaker and leader."** "Taking on roles in the club has sharpened my leadership skills, making me more effective at work." – **James**

Friendly book group Please remember to change your RSVP if you can't make it so someone on the waitlist can take your slot. New books chosen by popular vote and read 2 months later. We look forward to seeing you there!

Looking to brush up on your BSL skills or connect with other learners? Sacred Grounds is hosting a weekly Sign Club every Tuesday from 5-7pm. This casual and informal meetup is perfect for anyone learning BSL, whether you're just starting out or looking to keep your skills sharp. Come along to practice signing, connect with others in the community, and even try ordering your coffee in BSL! There’s no fee to join - all we ask is that if you're able to, you support the coffee shop by purchasing a drink or snack while you're here (please note that outside food and drinks are not permitted). Sacred Grounds is all about creating a warm and inclusive space, so don’t be shy - come sign with us! We look forward to welcoming you.

**Discussion overview:** Did you chase a "passion" only to find it rules your entire life? Or choose stability but feel completely burnt out? From corporate high-rises to creative studios, our jobs shape our whole identity. Beyond just paying the rent, your career dictates your schedule, your lifestyle, and even your relationships. Knowing the daily reality now, would you choose the exact same path again? **1\. The Origin Story:** Did you actively plan your career, or did you just drift into it for the vibe? **2\. The Identity Shift:** How much has your job quietly rewritten your lifestyle, habits, and relationships? **3\. The Ultimate Rewind:** Knowing the true daily sacrifices now, would you choose this exact path again? *Join us for a relaxed group conversation where we explore real life, grey areas, and how our different cultures and backgrounds shape our views about key topics.* *Expect real talk, no judgment, and a chance to learn how others see it.* **\*Come for the discussion, stay for the friendships. Our weekly discussion series brings together thoughtful people for honest conversations on relationships, life, and society - with warm social vibes before and after.\*** **WHAT TO EXPECT:** * Good vibes only: we chat big topics in a chill, respectful way. No arguing - just open-minded exchange. * We warm up with casual socializing (come solo or with friends!) * The topic starts around 7:45/8pm, wraps around 9:30. * 🍕 There's pizza, drinks, milkshakes and snacks available at the bar (incl plant-based options) * And most people stay until late for drinks and mingling! **DISCUSSION FORMAT:** **\- Our group conversations are open and flexible\! There is a very soft guided flow to ensure we focus on the key questions\, and to ensure that everyone gets a balanced opportunity to speak\.** \- We rotate groups intentionally during the discussion so everyone gets to meet a wider mix of people and perspectives\. \- After the structured part\, you’re free to mix and mingle with anyone\. **Here's a typical discussion flow, but we may adjust this depending on the turnout:** \- Introductions and initial thoughts *(\~5 mins).* \- Group breakouts per question *(\~20 mins x 3).* \- Final round of opinions *(\~10 mins)*. \- Mix and mingle\, make new friends\, get drinks etc *(\~until late)* **Rules & etiquette:** 1\. Debate the topic\, not the participants \- no personal attacks please\. 2\. No phones\, no interrupting\, no bystanding\. 3\. Always follow the moderator/host instructions and guidelines\. **WHAT IS WORLD CITIZENS?** We're one of London's longest-running and largest communities. Since 2012 we run socials, cultural activities and stimulating discussions to foster meaningful exchange and learning among London's global professionals. They are inspired by MUN (Model United Nations) and salon discussions and offer a more relaxed and social evening version. **LOCATION DETAILS** What: Discussion session followed by social/networking When: Tuesday, 7:30pm until late. Where: Curzon Aldgate (bar area), 2 Canter Way, E1 8PS Closest stations: Aldgate East, Aldgate, Tower Hill/Gateway Cost: Pay for your own meals or drinks Hosts: We have a rotating team and the actual host of each event varies. Our regular members can also help you out with basic matters. *NOTE: like most guests, our volunteer hosts join after work and may arrive after the start time. If you are punctual or earlier than our hosts, we highly appreciate this! Please feel free to start socializing already and/or get something to eat or drink - that’s the point of our events anyway! Our regular members can also help you out with any basic matters.* **\*Our other weekly events\*** \- Friday evening socials every week \- Saturday afternoon cafe in Chelsea \- Canary Wharf socials every other Wednesday \- Outdoor fun \(hiking\, kayaking\, etc\) every weekend \- Dining\, cultural and travel activities on\-demand **JOIN OUR TEAM!** We're all volunteers, so if you enjoy organizing activities or events in your spare time, while meeting great people every week, send a message to our team account "TP"! **DISCLAIMER** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Though we have high standards in planning, this is a private informal activity so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour, towards our guests or team members. We collaborate with the police when needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our team's decisions may not be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer.

For this special session, we’re trying something a little different. Instead of the usual introductory talk, the evening will begin with a short live debate on one of the most pressing and controversial moral questions of our time: **the morality of assisted dying**. Camden Bassett (Veins of London Meetup) and Roger Jones (host of Philosophy Café London) will each take a position and present a brief opening argument, responding to one another in real time. The aim is not to “win” the debate, but to clarify the issues, sharpen the arguments, and open up the discussion for everyone in the room. After that, the emphasis is on discussion and participation. The aim is to create a space where ideas can be explored together, with time for questions, reflection, and open conversation. No prior knowledge is needed — just curiosity and a willingness to think together. **Where:** Downstairs room, Square Pig, Holborn (private room) **NB:** The event begins at 7pm, doors open at 6:50pm. Event ends at 9pm **Format:** 10-minute intro talk → vote on questions → small-group discussions → share insights with the whole room **Discounts:** If cost is a barrier, we want to make the session as accessible as possible. If you are a student, unemployed, or on a low income, please feel free to send me a direct message to get a reduced-price place. **Refunds:** If you are unable to attend and would like a refund, please send me a direct message at least 48 hours before the event. Unfortunately, I’m not able to offer refunds for cancellations made after this point, as it becomes difficult to reallocate places at short notice.

Every Thursday evening, at Gospel Oak Methodist Church, Agincourt Road, London NW3 2NT our choir tries out new material and practises songs in 4 - 8 part harmony under the direction of our superb Musical Director Ben Cox, and accompanist, Jonathan Taylor. We meet from 7.30pm - 9.30pm. So come along and sing with us, as a taster. Let us know you are coming via our website contact form - see www.taketwenty.co.uk or by emailing info@taketwenty.co.uk, or via MeetUp, so we can be sure to have copies of music for you so you can join in.

Here is a recap of how the Club works: 1\. We meet every six weeks or so in or near the National Theatre\. 2\. We vote in advance and pick two articles from a short list to read before we meet\. Usually one relates to politics/current affairs and the other to history\, culture or science\. 3\. We talk about each one for around half an hour and the beauty of Article Club is that we can think more deeply about the broader themes of a topic\, and how well the article gets to grips with them\. 4\. We each give a score out of 10 for the articles that have been discussed\. 5\. We set the date for the next Article Club and sometimes adjourn to the pub\. I will post in the comments a Google form that you can use to vote for the articles you would like to read and discuss at this event. The point of Article Club is to challenge ourselves to read a diverse range of articles, share them with like-minded people and deal with our anxiety that we aren't reading books. Article Club was set up by Ross Bailey in 2015 who did a fantastic job at running it. Ross was followed by the equally fantastic Claire Ferraro and I (Alistair Baker) have been in the chair for the past seven and a half years. OUR NEXT MEETUP: ARTICLE CLUB #76 Thursday 21st May 2026 - 7:30pm to around 9:15pm. We sit on the soft round seats in the Lyttelton Theatre bar on the first floor.

**FREE FOR MEMBERS OR SIGN UP WHEN YOU ARRIVE** Hello music enthusiast, We're excited to invite you to our Songwriting Class held right here in the heart of musical Camden every Saturday at 2 p.m! Whether you're a budding songwriter or just looking to explore your creative side, this class is designed **for people under 30s and all skill levels.** Come be a part of our community!!! No matter your background or experience, all are welcome. Let's turn your musical ideas into real songs! If you want to know more information, text or call Thomas: 07310801741

The Alliance is part of the Greater Central Ohio Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. We are an all-voices chorus dedicated to providing an inclusive environment for all those who love to sing, regardless of their race, gender identity, sexual orientation or musical background. The Alliance is the first and only all-voices barbershop chorus in Central Ohio. **Who:** Anyone with a passion for singing at a high level. Previous barbershop chorus/quartet experience not required. **When:** The Alliance rehearses weekly on Thursdays from 7pm-10pm. **Where:** Lord Of Life Lutheran Church: 2480 W Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 To become a full member of The Alliance, we welcome you to start by visiting us for a few rehearsals to experience the group and sing with us! Then, you may begin the 2-part audition process for membership: the assessement, and audition. We strive to make our auditions as stress-free as possible to help you let your best singing self shine.

The Alliance is part of the Greater Central Ohio Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. We are an all-voices chorus dedicated to providing an inclusive environment for all those who love to sing, regardless of their race, gender identity, sexual orientation or musical background. The Alliance is the first and only all-voices barbershop chorus in Central Ohio. **Who:** Anyone with a passion for singing at a high level. Previous barbershop chorus/quartet experience not required. **When:** The Alliance rehearses weekly on Thursdays from 7pm-10pm. **Where:** Lord Of Life Lutheran Church: 2480 W Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 To become a full member of The Alliance, we welcome you to start by visiting us for a few rehearsals to experience the group and sing with us! Then, you may begin the 2-part audition process for membership: the assessement, and audition. We strive to make our auditions as stress-free as possible to help you let your best singing self shine.

The Alliance is part of the Greater Central Ohio Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. We are an all-voices chorus dedicated to providing an inclusive environment for all those who love to sing, regardless of their race, gender identity, sexual orientation or musical background. The Alliance is the first and only all-voices barbershop chorus in Central Ohio. **Who:** Anyone with a passion for singing at a high level. Previous barbershop chorus/quartet experience not required. **When:** The Alliance rehearses weekly on Thursdays from 7pm-10pm. **Where:** Lord Of Life Lutheran Church: 2480 W Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 To become a full member of The Alliance, we welcome you to start by visiting us for a few rehearsals to experience the group and sing with us! Then, you may begin the 2-part audition process for membership: the assessement, and audition. We strive to make our auditions as stress-free as possible to help you let your best singing self shine.

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus in 2024, this is the perfect place to kick off our Summer of Ice Cream and grab a sweet treat after the show! Their menu features an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, and more! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan