Drums
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Yes! Check out drums events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the drums events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
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Drums Events Today
Join in-person Drums events happening right now
Julie Henderson Russell Boyle Badminton Academy
Every week is a badminton academy for improver/intermediate/advanced standard. I also run thirteen teams that play in leagues out of the academy. Unfortunately this class does not cater for beginners! Wanting people who wish to enjoy and improve with games and advice with a coach who has played county and national level badminton, and has also played for England.
Just come along, bring a racket, very friendly atmosphere! Class from 7.30 - 9.30pm weekly, £14.00 per session or £35.00 for three sessions t be paid up front and must be used within six months, payable by cash only. I have coached players from beginner to international standard. Please message me with any questions.
Thanks
Blackheath to Eltham via Severdroog Castle in Oxleas Wood (6 miles}
This is a new walk, and there is plenty to see on it.
We will meet at 10.45 am downstairs in Blackheath Coffee and will leave at 11.15 am. (This is next to Blackheath Railway Station,}
Our walk will take us along roads and we will go to Severndroog Castle in Oxleas Wood which is well worth visiting cost £5 adult £3 concession} .
{Severndroog Castle is an elegantly preserved Gothic tower situated in the delightful gardens of Castle Wood on Shooter’s Hill, one of the highest points in London.
The ‘castle’ was commissioned by Lady James, probably as a memorial to her husband, and designed by architect Richard Jupp in 1784.
Severndroog enjoyed extensive renovations in 2013-2014, when rooms featuring beautiful ornate ceilings and chandeliers were restored to their original state.
On the ground floor, the Severndroog Tea Room serves fresh hot and cold options for breakfast, brunch, lunch and tea, including plenty of choices for children.
Admission to Severndroog Castle includes the castle rooms, where volunteers will tell you the story of Sir William and Lady James, the building’s uses over the years and the campaign to save the castle.
Your ticket also includes access to the Viewing Platform, where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of London and the seven surrounding counties.}
Lunch will be at the cafe in the wood {as image above shows} where the food is very good. or you can bring your own.
Our walk will end at The Tudor Barn where we can have a drink which is near Eltham Railway Station.
Outward
Trains run from to Victoria, Charing Cross, Waterloo East, Lonon Bridge Stations to Blackheath Rail Station. You can also get the SL4 bus from Canary Wharf
.
Return
Eltham Station is on the same line as Blackheath Station but 2 stops down.
You can also get the 132 bus from Eltham Station to North Greenwich Station where you can get the Jubilee Line.
£7 meet up fee required (Please have the right change.}
Walking Boots would be preferable fo this walk.
If you need any more info please ring Paul on 07530 675739 {this is not a smart phone] or email paulc200850@yahoo.co.uk
\*JOIN OUR 45+ NOT GRUMPY FACEBOOK COMMUNITY \*
<[https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/](https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/)>
Friday LOW INTERMEDIATE+ @ GEORGE GREENS School (7:15pm - 9:10pm)
**Friday - Lower Intermediate+ @ George Green's**
Come and join our friendly badminton club for a fun and competitive doubles session at George Green’s School in Tower Hamlets!
🏸 **How it works**
* Book your spot here on Meetup – spaces are limited.
* Pay by bank transfer before the session – bank details are provided below.
* Bring your own racket and non-marking indoor shoes. Feather shuttles are included.
🎯 **Level**
This is a **Lower Intermediate+ session**. You should be able to play clears, smashes, drops, drives, and net shots consistently in games.
All players **must be at the right level** for this session. Badminton levels vary between clubs, so we strongly recommend checking out our **Instagram page** to see what *we* class as **Lower Intermediate, Intermediate, and High Intermediate** before booking.
We always use the **first game as a level check**. If it becomes clear during that game that the standard isn’t the right match for this session, **you won’t be able to continue beyond that point**.
As a **small community club**, we’re unfortunately **unable to offer refunds** in these situations.
👉 Please **only book a session if you are happy to accept these conditions**.
💬 **Stay connected**
We have a club WhatsApp group for updates, photos, and extra playing opportunities. Message Peter on **07561 100 413** after you've played at your first session and we’ll add you!
📍 **Venue**
* Where: George Green’s School, 100 Manchester Road, E14 3DW (nearest tube: Island Gardens DLR).
* On arrival: Let reception know you’re here for the Tower Hamlets Badminton Meetup.
💷 **Price**
£12 per session, payable in advance.
Bank transfer details:
**Badminton Go Ltd**
Sort code: 60-83-71
Account: 78644858
(Use your name + date as ref)
Sex 🎸Drugs 🎤 Rock n Roll: Rockaoke With Live Rock Band 🎶
If you genuinely **love music** and meeting fellow music fans **-** then join for a super duper cool fun euphoric captivating night out with cool talented musicians and me and you performing songs from your favourite rock artists mixed with drinks, fun conversations, laughs and dancing at an imperial palace like no other
Not only do you get the rare chance to **meet** elusive **fellow** **music lovers** to enjoy standout live hits but you'll also have the option to **sing** **your favorite** **song** from the all time greatest music tunes catalog with a live rock n roll band (or if you're too nervous - grab me, we’ll make it happen!), as a high energy crowd cheer and singalong with you in full support
This epic night will be fully hosted by me untill the fat lady sings - a friendly funny radio/club DJ, singer, dancer, Musicologist with a natural innate flair to get musical vibes flowing through your every chord...
**Expect to hear or sing classic anthemic rock & Indie songs** from Bon Jovi, , Queen, Nirvana, Kings of Leon, Oasis, Bryan Adams, Guns N’ Roses, ACDC, Blur and 100 other musical legends
**=== High Octane** **Melody Fueled** **Night Out ===**
This will be a highly fun entertaining night out with high octane feelings
blanketed with an electrifying atmosphere charged with raw musical energy, soul and emotion. Whether you like to get in front of a mic at Karaoke or you're a secret car perfomer - expect symphonies to unfold in harmony with a vibrant crowd of young music lovers as the band transforms you from boring city of London exe by day into a **rock star** for the night. And if you have a natural sense of rhythm it would be selfish not to show off your charismatic stage presence by droppin some **funky dance moves** as no rock star performance is complete without!
Of course, you don't need to get up and perform - if you **love music** but don't want to sing, you are welcome to socialise, cheer, singalong and dance with the rest of us. Slots to build melody fueled new connections are strictly limited. So in order to give genuine music fans a fair chance to attend - as per attendance rules **\- anyone who has not answered the screening question properly or does not demonstrate passion for music as indicated by interests listed in their profiles \- will be moved to not going to create space for like\-minded genuine people**
**=== If You're Singing ===**
You don't need vocals like Zara Larsson or Amy Winehouse - most of us are not professional singers - we do this for pure fun indulgence, entertaininment and love of music but if you've never sung live with a band on stage before - ideally choose a song that you know the lyrics / musical timing too well. We'll have **two** **experienced guitarists** (base and electric)**,** a **drummer** who also do **backing vocals** to help out if you get lost.
**=== Venue & Itinerary ===**
We are back at our Camden venue with the band offering excellent choice of songs. Early on we will meet around the bar area and once the first song hits most of us will move closer to the front stage to dance and singalong to the tracks so come on time for early intros - when the band starts it gets pretty loud. I will share my number on the eve and update in the comments section on whereabouts.
**=== MUSIC ONLY EVENTS ===**
For music fans who love music and want to hear about mostly free music‑related events in London, we do have an exclusive WhatsApp group you can join subject to minimal vetting. If you have attended an event before or at least met the organiser in person send me a request and I will add you / send you link to join:! I’ll share all my music events here in advance first so people can RSVP earlier and avoid waiting lists. People can also share last min non‑meetup MUSIC events too.
Lucas The Music Maestro
50% OFF (£5)! Singles Social & Party in Shoreditch, Comp. Drink ! Happy Hour!
Host: Van
\*This event is a collaboration with other groups and social networks and it will be well attended
\*To attend this event you need to buy a ticket from
[https://www.fatsoma.com/e/xzbdwy6y/singles-social-party-in-shoreditch-with-complimentary-drink-happy-hour-all-ages](https://www.fatsoma.com/e/xzbdwy6y/singles-social-party-in-shoreditch-with-complimentary-drink-happy-hour-all-ages)
Single people mixing and mingling, partying and dancing in the heart of Shoreditch, while keeping their eyes open trying to spot that special one that will make their heart jump
Whether you are looking for a partner or just to meet and connect with other people who are at the same phase of life, this is the event for you!
You never know who you are going meet in this evening and that is the beauty of it! You may find a friend forever, a party buddy, a partner in crime or a partner in life!
Since this is a mix and mingle and not a speed dating there is no age
range- in a social pool everybody is welcome and you can choose to speak to whoever you fancy.
Connect with like minded people and open your social circle, enjoy
chatting about anything and everything, with those you like, for as long as you like
If you find somebody who you think you have a connection with, dare to
ask their contact details right then and there... like the old times ;)
Oh! and you don't need to ask the awkward question: 'so are you
single?' because they all will be!
You are very welcome to attend alone or with friends. We will be there
making introductions, helping break the ice,, and act as a glue in the group.
We have a reserved area/table where we can mix and mingle, so that
everybody can relax and feel comfortable and we get to know each other. and then we are going to move on the dance floor!
Simmons Shoreditch is a quirky cocktail bar bringing an off-
kilter addition to the streets of the East. Just off Shoreditch High Street, this gem is notorious for a late-night party or 5. Its eclectic playlist and beautifully bonkers interiors set it apart from its peers.
Famed for its rogue aesthetic, it really has it all. We're not joking. Bringing a new meaning to 'Everything but the kitchen sink,' this bar even has that. Its DJ plays from a built-in Kitchen Disco. Spinning disks that span decades with a playlist that's sure to keep you on the dancefloor until the early hours. Blaring neons, skull disco balls and
waltzer-style booths all add to the charm!
The program of the night is as follows :
7:00pm-9pm : Singles mixing and mingling
9pm: The music goes up and it is time for dancing.
Everyone arriving before 9pm receives a token for a complimentary
drink ( you can choose between beer, prosecco or non alcoholic)
Happy Hour till 9pm!
Dress code is smart/ elegant/ Smart Casual (smart dark jeans are fine but ripped jeans, sportswear, trainers/sportshoes and hats are not allowed).
For security reasons every guest must carry photographic ID with them (Driver’s License, European ID or Passport) independently of the age.
If you wish to be welcomed and introduced to other people by the hostess please arrive before midnight
How to find us: When you arrive please ask to be directed to Marianna's Events area/ Van. Any issue on the night feel free to contact Van: 07587546857
For general inquires or difficulties with your ticket booking feel free to e-mail us at benetoupromotions@gmail.com or call Marianna on: 07949526733
How to connect with us:
Like and follow our facebook page:
[https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland](https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland)
Join our facebook group:
[https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514](https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514)
Follow us on twitter:
[@Mariannasevents](http://mariannasevents/)
Intermediate & Above
3hrs £15
Location: Ark Walworth Academy
Shorncliffe Rd, London SE1 5UJ
There will be 24 hours cancellation policy. If you can't make it please update your RSVP 24 hours before the session. Anytime under 24 hours and you will be responsible for paying for the session.
The session fee is £15 per 3 hours
make a payment to:
Monzo Personal account
Alvin John Rompe
Sort code: 04-00-04
acct number: 29786770
Friday 2hrs Social Badminton* @ Harris Girls Academy ED
**Important (Must Read) Update:** We have made some changes to the price and booking conditions for this session, **do make sure to read this, click here> [Updated Details](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Sl7oLOD9ZqPoJnHKk9ZpEw8WetlAJdxWxwXyqlKsJOo/edit?usp=sharing)**
How to RSVP & Pay! (See Full Details Below)
**RSVP on Meetup** then use this **\>\> [Collctiv Payment Link](https://pay.collctiv.com/friday-badminton-34874) until 10am Friday ([see full details here & below](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pMsg6dATGes2pM59YuuzQBXabl882VvvXeDby0Y2usc/edit?usp=sharing))**
* After 10am (AutoPay) payments made via Meetup/PayPal (fees inc)
*\***Social Badminton** -* Suitable for players from beginner to intermediate levels who like to play for fun & competitively, with a variety of different players. Games are arranged by the session rep!
**SESSION DETIALS**
* 4 court. 26 players max. Feather Shuttles
* Water refill station (bring a bottle). No Rackets provided
* **Cost** \- £12\.50 per person \(**see payment link below** )
* Cancellation/No Show & Refund Policy! (see T&C's below)
**HOW TO BOOK:** First RSVP on Meetup & Pay straight away as below!
* **Before 10am on Fri** (Manual option) **-** Pay via > **[Collctiv Payment Link](https://pay.collctiv.com/friday-badminton-34874)\***
* \*Supporting the Collctiv App is optional. Untick this to pay the session fee only.
* **[Click Here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pMsg6dATGes2pM59YuuzQBXabl882VvvXeDby0Y2usc/edit?usp=sharing)** to see full details regarding Collctiv
* **From 10am on Fri**, incomplete bookings will be withdrawn and need to rebook as below. Plus...
* **Autopay switched on!** \- RSVP via Meetup and make payment via PayPal \(fee inc\)\. No PayPal account required\, simply continue as a guest\.
* **Do not turn up without booking, and/or wanting to pay in cash.**
**WAITING LIST** is open till 10am. If you get a spot, then make a payment ASAP! Make sure you have your Meetup notifications on! It is your responsibility to make your payment in due course! Cancelation & No-Show Policies apply!
The list will close at 10am, after which you can book via AutoPay if a space becomes available.
**VENUE DETAILS**
* Harris Girls Academy, Homestall Road, London, SE22 0NR
* Pedestrian - Enter to the far right corner of the main/blue building (right of the main reception) via the gate.
* **Parking** is available outside in the street.
* **Bicycles** can use the bicycle rack near the sports hall entry
**TERMS & CONDITIONS**
**[Click Here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/12WmILk6X9dwgf_W0Cm6kgswKeW4ovHDTN8TBvN4Gq10/edit?usp=sharing)** to view details for Full Details
By RSVPing for this event you confirm you have read and agree to our T&C's
**Dress Code, Well Being, Conduct & Equal Opportunity:**
* Wear suitable clothing and footwear for indoor sporting activity.
* Ensure than your jewellery is also kept to a minimal, and avoid wearing large ear rings, chains or bracelets/bangles.
* If the above is not suitable, you might not be able to participate within the session. No refund, exchange or credit will be given!
* If needed please seek advice from your doctor before playing any sports.
* You are responsible for warming up/cooling down stretches to reduce the risk of strains/ injuries.
* Play at your own risk as Crossfire Badminton Club will not be held responsible for any injuries incurred.
* We welcome players of all backgrounds, and treat everyone equally with respect. This is also expected from our participants. If you fail to do this, you may be asked to leave the session, or even banned from future sessions
Drums Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
LondonJamSessions x TAM MIC DROP (Chord Flow) #34
I am proud to announce that we having our jam at the Temple Of Art & Music in Elephant & Castle!!
Chord Flow:
A structured improvisation session where players explore a shared chord progression and key, creating music organically in the moment.
Lineup (on stage together):
• 2 guitarists
• 1 bass
• 1 drummer
• 1–2 singers
• 1 additional instrument (sax, trumpet, percussion, etc.)
How It Works:
1. A simple chord progression and its key are written on a whiteboard opposite the stage.
2. The group has 5 minutes on stage to explore the progression together.
3. Tempo, time signature, style, and chord changes are left open — the music’s direction is determined by the group.
4. When the timer starts, the music begins. Musicians respond to each other in real time, building the flow organically.
5. No planning or discussion — focus on listening, reacting, and creating a shared musical experience.
6. After 5 minutes, the group rotates and a new set of musicians begin.
The Temple Of Art and Music is a live music venue and bar in Elephant & Castle so I encourage anyone attending to bring friends as it will be great fun for them even if they are not playing.
The venue has a PA system, drum kit, mics and guitar/bass amps.
There is no guarantee that there will be cymbals or drum accessories with the drum kit at the venue. Drummers please being your own if you can.
Like all our other jams it will be a chance to jam with other musicians playing the music that you love in a gentle environment with no judgement and no pressure. This jam also uniquely gives the opportunity to play in front of a crowd!
Tickets are **£10 online** message us let us know what instrument you play and we will confirm if there is space and send you the Eventbrite link for the jam.
Please do not hesitate to contact me for more information about this jam and London Jam Sessions.
At London Jam Sessions we have an active community on WhatsApp where we all discuss the upcoming jams and future events. Everyone in the community is encouraged to ask questions and bring forward new ideas. Dm me and I can add you to our Whatsapp group.
Samba Reggae Drumming Workshop - open to all levels!
Come along to the Maxilla to enjoy a drumming workshop open to all levels, whether you're beginning or an advanced drummer, you can learn how to play the authentic afro brazilian rhythms with Marcos Santana all the way from Salvador de Bahia!
£10
Any queries call Marcos on 07772 470198
As featured in Time Out's "1000 things to do in London for under £10"!
http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/f/8/c/event_243632652.jpeg
Novice | 9-11am May 9 Vortex upstairs
full for drums, bass, guitar, lead instruments, vocals, 1 of 2 spots taken for piano
**Please use this link to sign up and pay**
https://tickts.co.uk/events/novice-9-11am-may-9-vortex-upstairs
(Note you must already be accepted as a member of this group, otherwise your ticket will be cancelled)
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 9)**
* Blue bossa in Cm (warm up)
(Joe Henderson) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUxv3AAaK_Y
* Sidewinder in Eb
(Joshua Redman) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86lBeSUeh1U
* There will never be another you in Eb
(Modern Jazz Quartet) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZ00miCbQrs
* Don't Get Around Much Anymore in C
(Sonny Stitt) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tHa1bXtsP6M
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 16)**
* Bolivar Blues (aka Ba-Lue Bolivar Ba-Lues-Are) in Bb (warm up)
(Thelonious Monk) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UU-UjXwFi2Y
* How insensitive in Dm
(Wes Montgomery) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAoXA4IoSyE
* Caravan in Fm (note: the form is AABA, first chord C7)
(Cohen, Zenon) https://youtu.be/6kxD24KE__k?si=tNFOe16zHexe3VTZ&t=104
* Beatrice in F
(Sam Rivers) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2lnek_Z_Zs
**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!
Novice | 11-2pm May 9, 9M Studios
full for drums, bass, piano, 2 of 3 spots taken for lead instruments
**Please use this link to sign up and pay**
[https://tickts.co.uk/events/novice-11-2pm-may-9-9m-studios](https://tickts.co.uk/events/novice-11-2pm-may-9-9m-studios)
(Note you must already be accepted as a member of this group, otherwise your ticket will be cancelled)
*\*\* 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. The tickts.co.uk page will have tickets available only for the instruments/vocals with spots remaining.
**Tunes this week (Sat May 9)**
* Blue bossa in Cm (warm up)
(Joe Henderson) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUxv3AAaK_Y
* Sidewinder in Eb
(Joshua Redman) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86lBeSUeh1U
* There will never be another you in Eb
(Modern Jazz Quartet) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZ00miCbQrs
* Don't Get Around Much Anymore in C
(Sonny Stitt) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tHa1bXtsP6M
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 16)**
* Bolivar Blues (aka Ba-Lue Bolivar Ba-Lues-Are) in Bb (warm up)
(Thelonious Monk) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UU-UjXwFi2Y
* How insensitive in Dm
(Wes Montgomery) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAoXA4IoSyE
* Caravan in Fm (note: the form is AABA, first chord C7)
(Cohen, Zenon) https://youtu.be/6kxD24KE__k?si=tNFOe16zHexe3VTZ&t=104
* Beatrice in F
(Sam Rivers) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2lnek_Z_Zs
**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!
Kingston LGBTQ+ Forum does Bushy Parkrun
Join us for a free 5km timed run, walk or jog around Bushy Park. The event starts at 9:00 am sharp, so meet and Lewis and Chris near the coffee shop by the Diana car park in Bushy Park for 8:45 am (by the gate from the nearby car park), then we will walk over to the starting line together. Afterwards, we'll head to the Pheasantry for a coffee and some well-deserved breakfast.
If you would like to be timed, make sure you register on the Parkrun website, here: [https://www.parkrun.org.uk/bushy/](https://www.parkrun.org.uk/bushy/)
***
**Donate**: Kingston LGBTQ+ Forum is run by unpaid volunteers and funded by the generosity of the local community. If you'd like to donate to Kingston LGBTQ+ Forum, [please click here](https://www.kingstonlgbtforum.org.uk/donate).
Weekend afternoon open jam (Free) | 9th May 3-7.30pm, Vortex downstairs
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
Ricochet - Imperial Palace
DJ night playing a wide selection of 90s hits including grunge, punk, alt rock and metal.
Free entry and pretty much a normal night out at The Big Red but with DJs spinning in the background. So even music aside, there's also the option for those that want to come out more for drinks and chat.
Drums Events Near You
Connect with your local Drums community
Sound Bath Meditation
\*\*\*Meditation in our sacred space will begin promptly at 7:15 pm. Please refrain from entering after 7:15 pm.
Additionally, space is limited to the first 35 attendees. Your RSVP here does not guarantee you a spot and tickets are available first come, first served.\*\*\*
Donations are appreciated, and the average donation is generally $20, but all are welcome regardless of means! A portion of all proceeds will help fund the Crystal Ashram non-profit project where the Human Activation School of Expanded Consciousness will be located.
A unique musical experience called a "Sound Bath"
Sound bath! What's that?
According to sonic specialist Monte Hansen from Annapolis MD, "A sound bath is an immersion in sound frequency that cleans your soul."
Leave your rubber ducky at home.
Bring your blankey instead, for this super relaxing immersion!
According to cutting-edge doctors from Harvard, some of the deepest most profound healing in the body are accomplished with sound frequency.
That's old news though.
A 2nd century stone relief in the Himalayan mountains shows us that Buddha and his entourage knew this before Christ walked the earth.
The stone relief depicts the Buddha and his buddies playing ancient Tibetan singing bowls.
A sound frequency specialist from the [Human Activation School](https://humanactivation.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d88b4fea1b0f4ceaeb58f0e82&id=d6674b4603&e=465ba11f44), will be playing several of these rare Singing Bowls, some of which are over 200 years old.
A magical alchemy of 7-12 different metals rings in the past, present, and future for our relaxing enchantment. Even modern doctors are using these old metal bowls for healing, and they are not practicing Buddhists!
As a matter of fact, modern Buddhists no longer use the bowls in their practice.
Come experience these gifts from the past in this NON-religious practice of our present. Come be rejuvenated or just captivated by this unique musical performance. Bring your pillows, blankeys, and yoga mats and snuggle into the comfort of the tranquil sounds. Feel free to sit, lay, or even stand!
***Did You Know?***
Singing bowls invite the mind and body into a tranquil state of being in which remarkable healing can occur, events that are unexplainable from a conventional biomedical perspective” *Music and the Meditative Mind: Toward the Science of the Ineffable*[Source](https://humanactivation.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d88b4fea1b0f4ceaeb58f0e82&id=9222616fc4&e=465ba11f44) "The sound bath meditation provides a nurturing space to connect and grow spiritually. The group atmosphere is welcoming and fun, and the meditation work is soothing and enriching. Loved it!"**-Cara**
7:00 pm - Meditation Reception\*\*\*Meditation in our sacred space will begin promptly at 7:15 pm. Please refrain from entering after 7:15 pm.\*\*\*
7:15 - Doors Close & Meditation Begins
8:15 - Meditation Ends, Followed by Community Reflection \*Please be respectful of Sticks and Stones employees and their instructions upon entering and exiting the space for the meditation\*
A portion of all proceeds will help fund the [Crystal Ashram](https://humanactivation.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d88b4fea1b0f4ceaeb58f0e82&id=11664c3011&e=465ba11f44) non-profit project where the [Human Activation](https://humanactivation.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d88b4fea1b0f4ceaeb58f0e82&id=41699e76d8&e=465ba11f44) School of Expanded Consciousness will be located.
Community sharing and engagement following after the meditation
Questions? Please email [robert@humanactivation.com](http://mailto:robert@humanactivation.com/) or visit [crystalashram.com](https://humanactivation.us12.list-manage.com/track/click?u=d88b4fea1b0f4ceaeb58f0e82&id=7d92f9b8f7&e=465ba11f44).
Mantra Drum Circle for Rain
Join us to drum for rain! The drum circle will be at the Guru Rinpoche statue at the entrance to the Peace Park, across the street from the temple. We will be chanting sacred mantras as we drum, praying for abundant rain to ease the drought.
All are welcome!
Please bring any percussion instruments you have - the more the merrier! If you don't have any drums, there may be extra available. Either way, you can chant along with everyone. Seating is limited so we recommend bringing a chair or blanket to sit on.
In the event of inclement weather, we usually drum as long as we can before the storm starts, or wait it out and start a little late. We hold out until the last minute to cancel so if the weather seems iffy, keep an eye on our Facebook page for announcements.
The DC region is currently experiencing moderate to severe drought. Many other regions of the world are also experiencing drought conditions. We will dedicate our prayers to bringing life-giving rain to all who need it!
Mantra Drum Circle for Rain
Join us to drum for rain! The drum circle will be at the Guru Rinpoche statue at the entrance to the Peace Park, across the street from the temple. We will be chanting sacred mantras as we drum, praying for abundant rain to ease the drought.
All are welcome!
Please bring any percussion instruments you have - the more the merrier! If you don't have any drums, there may be extra available. Either way, you can chant along with everyone. Seating is limited so we recommend bringing a chair or blanket to sit on.
In the event of inclement weather, we usually drum as long as we can before the storm starts, or wait it out and start a little late. We hold out until the last minute to cancel so if the weather seems iffy, keep an eye on our Facebook page for announcements.
The DC region is currently experiencing moderate to severe drought. Many other regions of the world are also experiencing drought conditions. We will dedicate our prayers to bringing life-giving rain to all who need it!
Drum Jam Second Fridays, Ben Brenman Park, Alexandria
Free drum jam in a beautiful park, welcoming community. We start at 6:30 and jam until 9:30 at latest, the park closes at 10:00. Please bring a chair or stool to sit on. It's a short walk across the bridge from the parking lot and the whole area is well lit after dark. Park near the large, white restroom building.
We always have first timers as well as regulars and we all have fun drumming together. Bring your drum if you have one. I have a few extra drums and percussion instruments in case you don't have one yet. Looking forward to seeing you there!
Mark
P.S. Out of town friends, hope you can make it down when you're in the area!
Rhythmic Dance Fitness – Virginia: A Vibrant & Engaging Dance Experience!
Enjoy a vibrant and engaging dance experience that blends global rhythms and diverse styles. This class combines elements of Bollywood, Latin, and other dance forms into a smooth, easy-to-follow flow designed to get you moving and grooving at a comfortable pace. Perfect for all levels, this class focuses on fun, relaxation, and connection with the music while giving you a gentle workout.
Join us for a refreshing and enjoyable dance session! (Please wear socks).
Friday, April 10th from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm.
Held at the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum – Virginia, 14020 Thunderbolt Place, Suite 200, Chantilly, VA.
**FREE EVENT - Registration Required at [https://shorturl.at/KJoXv](https://shorturl.at/KJoXv)**
*Support the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum with your tax-deductible*
*contribution.*
**[CONTRIBUTE](https://www.meditationmuseum.org/contribute.html "https://www.meditationmuseum.org/contribute.html")**
Let's Do This!!!
Let's find our happy place, on the dance floor! Every Monday night.
Swing dancing is a HUGE scene in this area! With ton's of live bands and dance opportunities every week! (Especially with Summer coming up on us!) so lets jump in and have some fun! New 8 week beginner lessons kick off TONIGHT! (5/4), 7pm at Colvin Run Dance Hall just off Route 7 in Great Falls. (between Tysons and Reston) These are super fun classes and no partner is needed. It's also inexpensive compared to dance studios! Registration is on the Gottaswing website. Register ahead of time to be entered into the first night drawings. Seriously this is a fun and friendly scene. Let's do it!
























