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COVID-19 Events Today
Join in-person COVID-19 events happening right now
DSOLG May 2026 - AI incident response
## Details
Welcome to the DevSecOps London Gathering March Event on Wednesday 20 May. Along with our amazing talks we bring you the usual conversations, pizza and beer!
**Location:**
* 📍 **Venue:** Veracode, 36 Queen Street London, EC4R 1BN
* 📅 **Date**: Wednesday, 20 May 2026
* 🕕 **Time**: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
## Talk 1 - James Bevan
**Abstract:**
DevSecOps teams scan everything except the system governing their processes: Jira itself. When Jira configuration drifts, controls fail silently - workflows skip security gates, permissions grant unintended access, required fields disappear.
This session demonstrates how configuration drift creates security gaps and shows live detection across workflows, permissions, and automation. With agentic AI now modifying Jira configs, continuous monitoring of your control plane isn't optional.
**Speaker Bio**:
James is co-founder and CRO at Solcoro, building a platform that gives Enterprises and Atlassian Solution Partners real visibility into Jira Cloud environments. Alongside Solcoro, he also runs CROquet - a UK-based GTM consulting business. He takes on a small number of advisory and project engagements, focused on incentive design and revenue architecture. This combination lets him apply GTM theory in practice, both inside a SaaS business and across client environments.
## Talk 2 - Derrisa Tuscano
**Abstract**
The widespread deployment of Generative AI has introduced novel security incidents ranging from prompt injection and data exfiltration to misinformation cascades that traditional incident response frameworks are ill equipped to handle. This talk introduces a Practical Incident Response Framework for Generative AI Systems designed to bridge established cybersecurity standards with emerging AI assurance principles. I will discuss a response centric taxonomy that identifies six recurrent incident archetypes and presents a structured playbook aligned with NIST SP 800 61r3, NIST AI 600 1, MITRE ATLAS, and the OWASP LLM Top 10. Attendees will learn how to reduce the cognitive load on security teams during non deterministic AI failures by using tailored runbooks, RACI matrices, and Swimlane diagrams. Ultimately, the session will demonstrate how organizations can adapt traditional response models to operationalize AI incident response effectively.
**Speaker Bio:**
Derrisa Tuscano is a Cybersecurity postgraduate from the University of Warwick and a published researcher in Generative AI incident response. Her professional background includes leading numerous end to end project life cycles for Applied AI solutions at Quantiphi Analytics Solutions, where she specialized in architecting virtual agents within Google Cloud environments. Derrisa has been recognized with the WMG Excellence Scholarship and the Warwick Award for her commitment to skills development. Her work focuses on bridging the gap between enterprise cloud delivery and robust cyber risk management to ensure secure and compliant AI implementation.
##
GDG London x Invicity: Empowering Women in Tech
Brand & Build with AI: Empowering Women in Techwith Google Developers Group London x Invicity
Event Description
What if your technical skills weren’t the only thing advancing your career?
In today’s world, visibility is leverage, and the most impactful women in tech know how to build, showcase, and own their narrative.
Join Google Developer Group London and Invicity(The Ultimate Global Membership Community for ambitious young professionals) for an evening designed to help you turn your skills into a powerful personal brand, using cutting-edge AI tools and real-world strategies.
Whether you're a student, founder, early-career builder, or experienced operator, this event will give you the tools to stand out, get noticed, and unlock new opportunities.
What You’ll Learn
How to use Google Gemini & AI tools to craft standout LinkedIn content and CVs
Building a credible technical presence through GitHub, portfolios, and blogs
Turning your work into visible proof of expertise
Why personal branding is a career accelerator (and how to do it authentically)
How to navigate tax-efficient decisions when working in tech, from payroll and workplace pensions to setting up as a sole trader or limited company.
Speakers
Hear from an incredible lineup of women across tech, data, and engineering:
Kasia Dutch | Software Engineer @ Starling Bank A multi-award-winning engineer and founder of Code Your Confidence. Kasia is a career-switcher and mentor who has been recognized on the GirlCode Diversity & Inclusion Power List. She is an expert in technical storytelling and empowering women to communicate their value without apology.
Onyekachukwu Faith Ojumah | Software Engineer & Technical Writer Faith is a full-stack developer and a passionate technical communicator. With experience spanning engineering and community leadership, she specializes in making complex technical concepts accessible. She will be sharing how to bridge the gap between "writing code" and "building a credible online presence."
Ruchika Jha | Computer Science @ Northeastern & Robotics Lead A 5x Hackathon winner and Co-President of the Robotics Club, Ruchika specializes in autonomous engineering and Flutter development. She is also a national award-winning writer and professional Kathak dancer recognized by the UAE Ministry. As Workshop Lead, she combines technical depth with creative storytelling to help you build a multi-dimensional professional brand.
Kim Qin | PA to the CEO @TBA Global & Founder of Nova Entertainment Kim is a founder, community builder, and startup operator working across accounting, tax, entertainment, and tech. As PA to the CEO at TBA Global, an international accountancy firm, she supports business operations and works closely with professionals, founders, and growing companies. She previously served as Operations Director at a tech company that raised £2 million in seed-stage funding. Kim also currently serves as Secretary of the UK Society of Chinese Accountants and as a Global Partner at a stealth-stage AI company, and is a member of the China Culture Promotion Association. She will be sharing practical guidance on setting up a company, tax efficiency, and navigating the financial decisions that come with building a career or business.
🛠️ Event Format
18:00 – Welcome & Networking (Powered by Invicity) - Meet ambitious, globally-minded women building across London
18:30 – Intro - GDG London & Invicity - Why we did this event?
18:40 – Talk 1 - Kasia Dutch - Master the ASK: How to Advocate for Your Success
19:00 – Talk 2 - Kim Qin - Tax Efficiency for Tech Professionals & Future Founders
19:20 – Interactive Workshop - Ruchika Jha - Visibility as a Career Catalyst - Google Gemini. Note: Bring your laptop.
20:15 – Networking & Food (Powered by TBA Global) - Get real-time feedback + connect with speakers & peers
💡 Why This Event
We believe that for women in tech, the work doesn't always "speak for itself", you have to give it a voice. This event was born from a simple idea: your online story should do the heavy lifting for you. We want to empower every woman to leverage their visibility so that opportunities find them, rather than the other other way around.
GDG London is proud to provide the platform and technical ecosystem to showcase this talent, while Invincity continues its mission to bridge the gap between ambition and opportunity. Together, we are building high-signal experiences that turn global potential into local impact.
🥂 The Experience
Expect a thoughtfully curated evening with:
High-quality networking (no awkward small talk)
Hands-on, actionable insights
Light catering & drinks
A community of ambitious builders, creators, and operators
Light catering & drinks – Generously supported by TBA Global, an international accountancy firm providing practical accounting and tax insights.
🎟️ Who Should Join
Women in tech
Students & early-career professionals
Anyone looking to build a stronger professional presence
Builders curious about AI, personal branding, and career growth
🤝 Our Partners
A huge thank you to the partners making this evening possible:
Halkin: Our incredible venue sponsor, providing a world-class space for the London tech community to connect.
TBA Global: Our accounting and tax partner, supporting founders, professionals, and growing businesses with practical financial and tax guidance.
📍 Location & Details
📅 Wednesday, May 20th, 2026
🕕 18:00 – 21:00
📍 Venue: Hosted at Halkin Offices, South Bank, SE1 (Near Waterloo/Blackfriars) - Full address sent to confirmed guests
Agenda
---
Hosted By
Goran Minov, Regional Technical Strategist | GDG Organizer
I am a Cyber Security Architect specialising in Identity & Access Management (IAM). My passion lies in architecting secure Google Cloud solutions and building Android applications.
I currently serve as a Senior Technical Account Manager at Okta. As a key member of the customer success team, I'm dedicated to ensuring customers fully maximise the value of their Okta investment, focusing on automation and efficiency within their identity and access management solutions. With a background that spans various technical and leadership roles, I bring deep expertise in transforming complex identity challenges into streamlined, secure, and user-friendly experiences.
Stefan Cornea, GDG Organizer
Chris Bouloumpasis, GDG Organizer
Sara Mita Gabriel, Organiser
Renuka Kelkar, GDG Organizer
Sumith Damodaran, PM / GDG Organizer
Tom Colvin, Organiser
Tom Colvin is CTO of Apptaura, the app development specialists; and founder of Conseal Security, the mobile app security experts. He has been a developer for over 20 years and worked with Android since Cupcake. He is a Google Developer Expert in Android.
Mihaela Peneva,
---
Partners
TBA Global (https://www.tbagroup.uk/)
TBA Global — Experts in Global Tax, Product Compliance & Accounting
17+ years of experience | 60,000+ satisfied clients
Chartered Accountants and Tax Advisers helping businesses grow worldwide.
Halkin (https://www.halkin.com/)
Halkin is a London-based provider of premium, flexible, and serviced workspaces, offering private offices, coworking areas, and meeting rooms across 9 locations in areas like Mayfair and the City.
---
Complete your event RSVP here: https://gdg.community.dev/events/details/google-gdg-london-presents-gdg-london-x-invicity-empowering-women-in-tech/.
Lunchtime Meditation In-Person
Take a pause from your busy day and join us for a 20-minute guided meditation to breathe your stress away, decompress your body and mind, centre yourself and restore your wellbeing.
Leave feeling refreshed, recharged and refocused, ready to tackle the rest of your day.
No experience is necessary – this free in-person meditation is open to everyone.
**This is a free in-person meditation.**
**If you would like to make a voluntary donation, please click** [here.](https://www.innerspace.org.uk/donations/ "https://www.innerspace.org.uk/donations/")
\* I consent to my submitted data being collected and stored. We will process your personal data in line with the GDPR requirements and always store it securely and use it only for the purpose for which it has been collected. We will not pass on your details to any third parties without your consent.
10th Anniversary Celebration with Chris Webb - Power BI Under the Bonnet
This month we're celebrating the TENTH anniversary of the London Fabric User Group - having started life as the London Power BI User Group TEN years ago.
We'd love you to join us at the offices of the aptly named Tenth Revolution to help us celebrate.
# TENTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION WITH CHRIS WEBB
Chris has presented at the user group every year in May to celebrate our anniversary, and we didn't want this year to be any different.
**Power BI under the bonnet**: monitoring queries and refreshes using Workspace Monitoring, Log Analytics, Profiler and DAX Studio
When you're performance tuning a slow Power BI report or refresh you need to know what happens inside the engine, and the good news is that the Power BI engine can give you all kinds of detailed information on its internals. But how do you get access to this? How can you understand it? In this session you'll find out: how you can get (almost) the same information on internals from Workspace Monitoring, Log Analytics, SQL Server Profiler and DAX Studio and when to use which; which engine events are relevant to queries and which ones are relevant to refreshes; and how you can interpret this information for tuning.
**Agenda**
18:30 - Welcome, drinks, pizza & networking
19:00 - Main Session
20:00 - Help us celebrate at a local pub (details to be confirmed on the night)
**Venue**
Tenth Revolution offices in London.
Aldgate House, 33 Aldgate High St, London EC3N 1DL
Please provide your first and last name when registering for the event, as this is provided to building security to allow you entrance into the venue.
The Android Circuit: Sixth Stop, Leicester Square
This event is part of The Android Circuit, London's Central Hub for Android Developers. Check out the full circuit at https://androidcircuit.london/.
The Android Circuit journeys through London, with each "stop" hosted in the heart of the city's vibrant tech ecosystem. Our mission remains the same: to connect Android developers of all levels.
We're delighted to announce that the next station on The Android Circuit will be Leicester Square! Mark your calendars for our sixth meetup on May 20th, starting at 18:00, which will be graciously hosted by Skyscanner.
Agenda
18:00 - Doors Open & Networking
18:30 - Welcome & Intro
18:35 - Hack for good: Accessibility testing with a Flipper Zero by Quintin Balsdon
19:20 - Supercharging Android development with CLI by Vaidehi Deshpande
20:00 - Networking
Agenda
---
Speaker
Quintin Balsdon - Evinced (Technology Advocate)
Hosted By
Goran Minov, Regional Technical Strategist | GDG Organizer
I am a Cyber Security Architect specialising in Identity & Access Management (IAM). My passion lies in architecting secure Google Cloud solutions and building Android applications.
I currently serve as a Senior Technical Account Manager at Okta. As a key member of the customer success team, I'm dedicated to ensuring customers fully maximise the value of their Okta investment, focusing on automation and efficiency within their identity and access management solutions. With a background that spans various technical and leadership roles, I bring deep expertise in transforming complex identity challenges into streamlined, secure, and user-friendly experiences.
Stefan Cornea, GDG Organizer
Chris Bouloumpasis, GDG Organizer
Sara Mita Gabriel, Organiser
Renuka Kelkar, GDG Organizer
Sumith Damodaran, PM / GDG Organizer
Tom Colvin, Organiser
Tom Colvin is CTO of Apptaura, the app development specialists; and founder of Conseal Security, the mobile app security experts. He has been a developer for over 20 years and worked with Android since Cupcake. He is a Google Developer Expert in Android.
Mihaela Peneva,
---
Partner
Skyscanner (https://www.skyscanner.net/)
---
Complete your event RSVP here: https://gdg.community.dev/events/details/google-gdg-london-presents-the-android-circuit-sixth-stop-leicester-square/.
COVID-19 Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Novice | 10-12pm May 23 Vortex upstairs
Full for drums, bass, piano, lead instruments, vocals, 1 of 2 spots taken for guitar
**Please use this link to sign up and pay**
https://tickts.co.uk/events/novice-10-12pm-may-23-vortex-upstairs
(Note you must already be accepted as a member of this group, otherwise your ticket will be cancelled)
**Note the Vortex rehearsals will be starting at 10am and 12pm in the coming weeks.**
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 upstairs
**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. The tickts.co.uk page will have tickets available only for the instruments/vocals with spots remaining.
**Tunes this week (Sat May 23)**
* Autumn Leaves in Gm (warm up)
(Adderley, Davis) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CpB7-8SGlJ0
Lead sheet https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/2uzg5kowaah3vswd3zrsb/AGJM9FjuAr1BHdaMYDhxsPs?rlkey=i2xriyxxvio3zbk2yudwkpk9h&st=nsx003ud&dl=0
* Maiden Voyage in D
(Herbie Hancock) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWC5x9G45yo
* Too close for comfort in C
(Bobby Hackett) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N0ZpcGrdAg
* Nardis in Em
(Chet Baker) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziufEDFhlEA
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 May 30)**
* Chitlins Con Carne in C (warm up)
(Kenny Burrell) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylGjvwXV3HA
* Work Song in Fm
(The Jazz Networks) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4sTguG5aV8
* Well you needn't in F
(Miles Davis) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JC1iqeoNQg
* Satin Doll in C (as slow swing)
(Johnny Hodges) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dS2Dod7CIY
**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
**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 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.
**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!
CLH Book Group 📚 Age of Diagnosis by Suzanne O'Sullivan
May's Book: The Age of Diagnosis :Are Medical Labels Doing Us More Harm Than Good? by Suzanne O'Sullivan.
**A BEST BOOK OF 2025 IN *THE TIMES*, *SUNDAY TIMES*, *FINANCIAL TIMES, GUARDIAN*, *ECONOMIST, OBSERVER, LONDON STANDARD, NEW STATESMAN* AND *IRISH TIMES***
***'Revelatory. Slices through the contradictions that had tied me in knots.'* \- CHRIS VAN TULLEKEN**
***'So well-written. Raising awareness of something that is critically important.'* \- RANGAN CHATTERJEE**
**From autism to allergies, ADHD to long Covid, more people are being labelled with medical conditions than ever before. But can a diagnosis do us more harm than good?**
The boundaries between sickness and health are being redrawn.
Mental health categories are shifting and expanding all the time, radically altering what we consider to be 'normal'. Genetic tests can now detect pathologies decades before people experience symptoms, and sometimes before they're even born. And increased health screening draws more and more people into believing they are unwell.
An accurate diagnosis can bring greater understanding and of course improved treatment. But many diagnoses aren't as definitive as we think. And in some cases they risk turning healthy people into patients.
Drawing on the stories of real people, as well as decades of clinical practice and the latest medical research, Dr Suzanne O'Sullivan overturns long held assumptions and reframes how we think about illness and health.
The meeting starts at 7:30. Shortly after 7.30, we will break up into small groups. Those familiar with the CLH Book Group meeting know how this works: in each group we take turns introducing ourselves and giving our 1 minute thoughts on the book. It's important not to go over a minute and not to interrupt other people's minute so that everyone gets a chance to participate. After this first round, each group discusses for another 20 minutes or so.
We then shuffle the groups so as to talk to as many different people as possible and in the new groups repeat our introductions and 1 minute thoughts. We'll do this a couple of times before coming all together at the end in one last big group.
While we are very social and welcoming, the book group's primary focus is on discussing books. Feel free to turn up if you haven't managed to finish this month's book but note that the group works best when we have all read at least half of the book and are prepared to share our opinions.
***
£3 per person to attend. If it's your first time, come and try us out for free!
If you prefer, you can [pay online, by clicking here](https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=ZWCNRJ25BDL96).
We encourage dialogue, debate and sharing of information on our site but ask people to keep their comments cordial. Any views expressed here are those of the individual posting them and may not reflect those of CLH.
Novice | 12-2pm May 23 Vortex upstairs
Full for drums, bass, piano, lead instruments
**Please use this link to sign up and pay**
https://tickts.co.uk/events/novice-12-2pm-may-23-vortex-upstairs
(Note you must already be accepted as a member of this group, otherwise your ticket will be cancelled)
**Note the Vortex rehearsals will be starting at 10am and 12pm in the coming weeks.**
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 upstairs
**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. The tickts.co.uk page will have tickets available only for the instruments/vocals with spots remaining.
**Tunes this week (Sat May 23)**
* Autumn Leaves in Gm (warm up)
(Adderley, Davis) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CpB7-8SGlJ0
Lead sheet https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/2uzg5kowaah3vswd3zrsb/AGJM9FjuAr1BHdaMYDhxsPs?rlkey=i2xriyxxvio3zbk2yudwkpk9h&st=nsx003ud&dl=0
* Maiden Voyage in D
(Herbie Hancock) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWC5x9G45yo
* Too close for comfort in C
(Bobby Hackett) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N0ZpcGrdAg
* Nardis in Em
(Chet Baker) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziufEDFhlEA
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 May 30)**
* Chitlins Con Carne in C (warm up)
(Kenny Burrell) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylGjvwXV3HA
* Work Song in Fm
(The Jazz Networks) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4sTguG5aV8
* Well you needn't in F
(Miles Davis) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JC1iqeoNQg
* Satin Doll in C (as slow swing)
(Johnny Hodges) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dS2Dod7CIY
**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
**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 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.
**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!
London PyTorch #26
Join us on May 21st to learn, share, and network with some of the most experienced professionals who are passionate about AI/ML.
This time, we’re excited to have **Revolut** as a special partner.
Topics:
\- Anton Repushko\, Lead Researcher\, Revolut:
"Build Next-Generation Foundation Models in Finance"
\- Nicolas Atienza\, Researcher\, Neuralk AI:
"Gradient Boosting to Tabular Foundation Models: What Changed, What Didn't"
\- Ivan Dolgov\, JetBrains: "Pre\-training at JetBrains: fast MoE perfectly fit for H100/200 GPUs"
\- Kir Zharov\, Spinner AI: "Building the unified knowledge layer for self\-improving agents"
More talks will be added soon
You can submit your talk here:
[https://forms.gle/wiWyD5sBqzZtCfpMA](https://forms.gle/wiWyD5sBqzZtCfpMA)
If you’d like to become a partner for this or one of the upcoming meetups, message [https://www.linkedin.com/in/fedorshabashev/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/fedorshabashev/) or [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirzharov/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirzharov/)
In the meantime, you can watch the previously recorded talks:
[https://youtube.com/@londonpytorchmeetup](https://youtube.com/@londonpytorchmeetup)
Please subscribe to our channel! ❤️
Self-Improv-Ment, Improv Drop-In; personal growth meets spontaneity!
**🎭 Friendly Group Improv in Clerkenwell, London 🎭**
Come and join a relaxed, playful **group improvisation session** in the heart of London!
We’ll dive into **theatre games**, **acting warm-ups**, and **icebreakers**, followed by short, light-hearted scenes — spontaneous fun! 💥
🎯 **Our aims**:
* Build **self-confidence** in social settings
* Make **new connections** 👋
* Push your **comfort zone** 💪
* Explore **self-expression** 🎨
* Release **social inhibitions**
* Sharpen **communication skills** 🗣️
All through **fun, interactive, and communal play!** 🧩
Whether you're looking to **laugh**, **connect**, or **unleash your creativity & inner child**, you’re welcome here! 😄✨
**Pay on Eventbrite here:** [Improv-eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/improv-for-well-being-confidence-and-fun-tickets-1982624895433?aff=oddtdtcreator) \*with discount code JU6F for the amount of £12.65 **or in-person when you arrive.**
🍽️ **Stick around after?**
Feel free to join us for a **drink or dinner** afterwards — we do this occasionally depending on end time and interest 🥂🍕
***
📍 **Location:**
Peel Institute Three Corners Centre, Northampton Rd EC1R
www.thepeel.org
\* This venue is wheelchair accessible
🚪 **Finding the Peel:**
The Peel is situated on the corner of Northampton Road and Corporation Row. Please note; Northampton Road is a sort of U shape so if you find yourself at the other end of the U, and are confused you probably need to walk to the other end - just a few mins.
🚇 **Tube:** Farringdon or Angel
***
💷 **Payment:**
**£12.65 pay when you arrive and RSVP now.**
Pay by **Card**, **Cash**, or **Contactless** on arrival.
Or via eventbrite [here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/improv-for-well-being-confidence-and-fun-tickets-1982624895433?aff=oddtdtcreator)
📞 If you get lost, call **07841 456974** – but note: my phone will be **off once the session starts**, so try to arrive **on time or a little early!**
✅ **Please RSVP** — or you may be refused entry, thanks!
👕 **What to wear:**
Anything you like! There’ll be some movement, so **looser/comfy clothing** is ideal — but there’s **no dress code**.
***
🕗 **Schedule (approx.):**
🕣 19:00 – 19:15 \| Arrivals & Payments
🔥 19:15 – 20:00 \| Warm\-ups & Games
🧘 20:00 – 20:05 \| Short Comfort Break \(if needed\)
🎬 20:05 – 21:00 \| Scene Games\!
I’ll arrive after **18:40** – please aim to be on time for **19:00**, thank you!
***
📢 This group is also listed on **Eventbrite** – so we’ll have friendly faces from there too! 😊
External Event: Book Launch Party with Dr Alfredo Carpineti
#### Details
**This is an external event that we are sharing details about. Please go to [this link](https://www.outsavvy.com/event/34459/invisible-rainbows-book-launch) to sign up if you would like to attend**
**The Event**
What if the Universe around us is far richer than we can perceive? In *[Invisible Rainbows](https://wiltonsquarebooks.com/products/invisible-rainbows?variant=53139010617671)*, astrophysicist and science journalist Dr Alfredo Carpineti reveals the extraordinary hidden universe beyond the limits of human vision and how we have learnt to harness it.
The book comes out on May 21, and we are celebrating with a launch party in the incredible Chats Palace in Homerton. You will experience a bespoke cosmic cocktail (complimentary for the first 50 people) and hear a discussion about space, diversity, and more, between Alfredo and science communicator [Dr Suze Kundu](https://www.suzekundu.com/about).
There will be copies of the book available to purchase on the night (you can reserve a copy below) and get it signed, and just have a good time with some fun science discussions and music!
**Event Details**
Chats Palace, 42-44 Brooksby's Walk, London, E9 6DF
Thursday 21st May 2026 at 6:30 PM
Accessibility - Accessible Toilets, Relaxed Performance, Wheelchair Accessible
FREE
**Dr Alfredo Carpineti (he/him):**
is a queer Italian astrophysicist, science journalist, and social activist. He is the Senior Staff Writer & Space Correspondent for IFLScience where he has worked for 10 years, writing over 6,000 articles that have been read by millions. He is the author of the upcoming pop astronomy book Invisible Rainbows. He is the chair and founder of Pride in STEM, an award-nominated British charity dedicated to supporting and showcasing LGBTQIA+ in STEM and founder of the International Day of LGBTQIA+ People in STEM.
COVID-19 Events Near You
Connect with your local COVID-19 community
Feel Good Friday: POWER BALLAD at the Gateway Film Center + SHAKE NO. 8!
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
TBD
**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you.
The building address is 4450 Bridge Park
The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400
You will need to scan your ID at the door to get a visitor badge.
**Abstract**
TBD
**YouTube Link**
TBD
ASH UU Topic: TBD
ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio
TBD
Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!
Must See Thursday: I LOVE BOOSTERS at the Drexel + GRAETER'S!
Join us as we get together to see the top-reviewed comedy-drama, I LOVE BOOSTERS! The film comes from writer/director Boots Riley and follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. Here are details, trailers and our plan for this event:
DESCRIPTION: The film follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. It is written/directed by Boots Riley (Sorry to Bother You) and stars Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, Poppy Liu, Eiza González, LaKeith Stanfield, Will Poulter, Don Cheadle, and Demi Moore.
BUZZ AND ACCLAIM: I Love Boosters was the opening film at this year’s SXSW Festival and premiered to rave reviews! It is currently earning a tremendous 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes where critics call it, “an unexpected celebration of friendship, community, and solidarity.” Others call the film “an exercise in radical empathy,” a “masterful” and “optimistic” film designed to “provoke discussion” while making the audience laugh.
TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c)
SUMMER OF ICE CREAM: GRAETER’S! Established way back in 1870 in Cincinnati, this historic, family-owned brand is famous for their delicious small batch ice cream and any chocolate chunk flavors! They are currently the only commercial ice cream maker using the French Pot method that they’ve been using since they first opened! Plus, those chocolate chunks, oh my goodness! Vegan options are available.
PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but Showtime and complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer.
Look forward to seeing you there, Dan
Summer Kick-Off: THE MANDOLRIAN & GROGU at Lennox Phoenix + Happy Hour at BRAVO!
Join us as we kick off Summer Movie Season with a Happy Hour & a movie event to see the sci-fi action-adventure, THE MANDOLARIAN AND GROGU! The sci-fi action-adventure follows a lone bounty hunter and his apprentice Grogu (Baby Yoda) embark on an exciting new Star Wars adventure. Here are details, a trailer and our plan for this event:
DESCRIPTION: In the film, Djarin and his apprentice Grogu are enlisted by the New Republic during a period where remaining Imperial warlords threaten the galaxy. The film is written/directed by Jon Favreau (the mastermind behind the early MCU films) and stars Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White.
TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwild1rw7Aw
HAPPY HOUR PLAN: For Happy Hour food and drinks before the show we’ll meet in the bar area at nearby Bravo at 5:15pm! We’ll have a section reserved for the group, so keep an eye out for us and we’ll keep one out for you! CMG Pro Tip: If you can, bring cash as it helps make for a quicker exit from the restaurant.
MOVIE PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 6:45pm showing and meet in the lobby area at 6:30pm! Tickets on sale now and advance purchase as soon as possible is advised! Once you have yours, please list you seat number in the Comments section of this event.
Happy Summer and See You Soon, Dan
Three Creeks Metro Park
We'll get in around 4 miles at Three Creeks Metro Parks, primarily natural trails. 17-18 minute miles, no one left behind, and faster walkers are free to lead out.
Optional lunch after!
If you're joining for hiking all the metro parks, this is the sixth one!


















