Improvising with Music & Sound & Instruments

You're walking onto the field at a Washington Nationals game on June 14th to sing the Star-Spangled Banner with about 50 other guys. Interested? We rehearse every Monday night in DC. Doesn't matter if you've sung your whole life or haven't sung since high school. Doesn't matter if you've been told you're tone deaf. Show up Monday and surprise yourself. Here's what to expect when you walk in: * A warm welcome and a name tag. You'll know somebody within five minutes. * Free voice coaching from me. Breath, tone, range, the stuff that makes you sound better fast. * We'll teach you the anthem in four-part harmony. You'll be standing next to a guy who's been doing this for years. He's got you. * We sing other songs too. The chorus has a full repertoire and you're welcome to stay for all of it. What to bring: * Yourself * A water bottle * An open mind and a sense of humor That's it. No music to buy, no audition to pass, no commitment beyond showing up. Location: St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 4900 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington DC. Free parking. Walk-in friendly. Questions? Send a message through Meetup. If you've been waiting for a sign to do something different with your Monday nights, this is it. See you there.

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“How AI Alters Thinking,”** on dealing with artificial intelligence’s capacity to change and undermine our thought processes, with Eli Alshanetsky, assistant professor of philosophy at Temple University, principal investigator at its Cognitive Integrity Lab, and author of an upcoming book on AI and freedom of thought. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-how-ai-alters-thinking](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-how-ai-alters-thinking) .] Doctors who give bad advice can be sued for malpractice. Teachers belong to a profession with set standards. When artificial intelligence guides you, however, that guidance comes with a disclaimer: Use at your own risk. Every day millions of people take that risk, and usually AI seems genuinely helpful. But even if AI gives us good answers, might its use over time do bad things to how we think? Explore the relationship between AI and our own minds with Eli Alshanetsky, whose Cognitive Integrity Lab studies how artificial intelligence changes how we think, learn, and build trust. Author of *Articulating a Thought* and the upcoming book *Freedom of Thought in the Age of AI*, he’s on the cutting edge of efforts to answer AI-related questions such as: How can we tell when work is truly our own? How can technology support rather than replace authorship and reflection? What does trust mean when AI mediates our relationships with others and with our own thoughts? To set up his discussion of potential consequences of AI, he’ll describe how social media’s impact on society serves as a preview. Social media didn’t just give people what they wanted to click on, it actually changed what they regarded as click-worthy. It broke attention spans and fueled radicalization across millions of very different people. It left us with people who doom-scroll for hours, who can’t focus, who don’t know what to trust anymore. If you’d shown people this version of themselves ten years ago, would they have chosen it? Artificial intelligence is making a similar deal with us, but the stakes are higher. It isn’t chasing clicks. It’s optimized for giving you the most satisfying response to whatever is on your mind right now. The risk over time isn’t just that you’ll get lazy. More profoundly, even when you think hard, your sense of what counts as good thinking—as well as what sounds like you—will shift to match what AI has been feeding you. We’ll consider what kind of person this produces and whether this is someone we want to be or want children to become. Professor Alshanetsky will lay out a practical framework, which he calls “the interaction layer,” for using AI without letting it replace the thinking it’s supposed to support. He’ll also talk about what AI-related concerns should be the focus of parents and educators. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Illustration by David S. Soriano / Creative Commons.

**West Coast Swing with Lara Deni** **Where:** Deni Danzco Studio - 3408 Annandale Rd, Falls Church, VA ​ \*Max 16 people per class **Monday** 7:00pm - Level 2 (Novice) 7:45pm- Drills/Musicality/Technique - Levels 2-4 8:30pm - Level 3 /4 (Intermediate/Advanced) ​ **Thursday** 7:00pm - Level 1 (no experience/beginner) **Cost: *$74/month*** \- Three classes per month in any one level ***$199/monthly subscription*** \- Unlimited Class Monthly Membership of any level \- cancel anytime **Explanation of Levels** * Level 1 (No Experience/Beginner) - 6 count Rhythm, Left and Right Side passes ), Starter Step, Connection, and a few other basics * Level 2 (Novice -Beyond Basics) - See 6 month Syllabus on the website * Level 3 /4 (Intermediate/Advanced) - Turn techniques, Leaders Turns, Hammerlocks, Re-directs, Sling Shots, Whip Variations, and so much more. The moves and information learned in this class is endless. You will not be bored! :o) * Drills/Technique/ Musicality (Levels 2-4) ​- Each month will be concentrating on one of the three mentioned. We will dive deep into that area of dance, so you walk away with a better understanding, more knowledge, and musicality to enhance and make your dance more fun! Definitely a class not to miss! ###### Q&A * Classes are 45min * Refunds offered only 48 hours before class/class series starts * You can make-up a class with a class that is of a lower level and running during your current series class time period ​

Do you find yourself showing up in meditation sessions wondering why your mind won’t settle down?Are you trying to figure out why your body seems to become so uncomfortable in meditation sessions? Join Marsha, non-conventional meditator, certified yoga therapist, trauma sensitive yoga facilitator, and energy and sound healing facilitator, as we show up and unpack ways of meditating that uniquely resonate with you. Whether you find comfort in standing, sitting in a chair or on a yoga mat, or lying on the floor, eyes open or closed, you are welcome to show up just as you are, as we seek peace through movement and compassionate sharing experiences, while embodying the physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual benefits of meditation, energy + sound healing, and yoga therapy. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com**. The session is offered both InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St. Discount is available to seniors, teachers, students, emergency responders, and military. All can save by purchasing class packs.

Meet in front of Copper Canyon by the benches.
We'll do anywhere from 3-5 laps. It's .75 miles around and we usually do 3/4 laps. For safety reasons, we’re going to keep the group to two small groups of eight members each. Sometimes it get crowded there so we don’t want to have any mishaps. 
Afterwards, if we like the group will decide where to grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants at the RIO. If you happen to be late, walk, counterclockwise around the lake and you should see us walking

Welcome to our new home at the historic Tivoli Theater! Please check our details for access to the space on [our website](https://www.hacdc.org/visit/). Join the discord for questions / help getting in (use channel #let-me-in) [https://discord.gg/dNjuNhNmeT](https://discord.gg/dNjuNhNmeT)

**West Coast Swing with Lara Deni** **Where:** Deni Danzco Studio - 3408 Annandale Rd, Falls Church, VA ​ \*Max 16 people per class **Monday** 7:00pm - Level 2 (Novice) 7:45pm- Drills/Musicality/Technique - Levels 2-4 8:30pm - Level 3 /4 (Intermediate/Advanced) ​ **Thursday** 7:00pm - Level 1 (no experience/beginner) **Cost: *$74/month*** \- Three classes per month in any one level ***$199/monthly subscription*** \- Unlimited Class Monthly Membership of any level \- cancel anytime **Explanation of Levels** * Level 1 (No Experience/Beginner) - 6 count Rhythm, Left and Right Side passes ), Starter Step, Connection, and a few other basics * Level 2 (Novice -Beyond Basics) - See 6 month Syllabus on the website * Level 3 /4 (Intermediate/Advanced) - Turn techniques, Leaders Turns, Hammerlocks, Re-directs, Sling Shots, Whip Variations, and so much more. The moves and information learned in this class is endless. You will not be bored! :o) * Drills/Technique/ Musicality (Levels 2-4) ​- Each month will be concentrating on one of the three mentioned. We will dive deep into that area of dance, so you walk away with a better understanding, more knowledge, and musicality to enhance and make your dance more fun! Definitely a class not to miss! ###### Q&A * Classes are 45min * Refunds offered only 48 hours before class/class series starts * You can make-up a class with a class that is of a lower level and running during your current series class time period ​

collaborative community for ServiceNow specialists and IT professionals to connect, share knowledge, and grow together. This group focuses on real-world use cases, best practices in ITSM, emerging technologies, and career development. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced professional, join us to exchange ideas, improve communication skills, and build meaningful industry relationships.

Do you want to get better at playing with others in open-ended jam situations? Tired of playing things the same way every time? Join us as we open the door to freedom of expression using improvisation. On the 3rd Monday of every month guitarist, teacher and artful improviser Luke Chohany takes students a deep dive into spontaneous music-making. This class is about listening, finding the pocket, managing space, improvising, and playing well together. Students will have an opportunity to play with others on a variety of instruments and learn how those instruments can fit together successfully in a cooperative and supportive setting. Each month Luke will bring new techniques and concepts in improvisation to help students develop their own style and expand their improvisational language. This class is best for players with basic proficiency on their instruments. All instruments and backgrounds are welcome. Ages 14+ Register Here: [https://square.link/u/LLZz9qoR](https://square.link/u/LLZz9qoR?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExdExoYVhtMDE5enJzUzBhbHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6jts8WI-Ddr1uEzSy7VK9SdOruYx-pldaIMYedFGGvJ1TexMeq5VFhsMrlTQ_aem_B73lIWwVccNMk1NoMHWZSg)

**Do you want to learn some blues standards? We teach a new blues standard every other Thursday right before our weekly Blues Jam.** * You'll jam with the house band * Work on chops with a focused goal (solos, rhythm, listening and playing off others) * Learn some Blues Standards you can take anywhere \*\*$20 at the door\*\* **\*Members Get in free and receive other benefits\*** **[Become a Member](https://patreon.com/DoctorStrings?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink)** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- What we're working on this week: TBD \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Beginner to Pro Blues jam right after the Blues Lab 21+ only** This is a smaller more practice focused event at my shop. **Open to everyone and is a learning experience for most.** Just bring your instrument(Electric), no need to bring an amp we have all of that. Do not bring a pedal board with a bunch of pedals. The amps are dialed in for blues, trust me it's all there. Drums are here already, very basic kit. If you want to bring cymbals or any other drum gear, please show up early to set up. Also please be aware that other people are going to play the kit as well.

### **Wash away stress and ignite inner peace.** **This sound bath is an opportunity to step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a soothing environment where you can recharge and reconnect with your true self. The soothing vibrations of various instruments will guide you on a sound journey of healing, helping to release built-up tension and emotional weight.** ***What is sound healing? During a sound healing experience also known as a sound bath participants lie down comfortably, allowing their bodies to relax and open to the healing frequencies from the soothing vibrational sounds filling the space. The session will feature an array of instruments, including crystal singing bowls, Tibetan bowls, gentle chimes, gongs, and other vibrational instruments, each chosen for their unique resonant qualities. The soundscape will be carefully crafted to guide participants through a journey of deep relaxation and inner exploration, promoting emotional release and mental clarity. As the session unfolds, the sounds will recalibrate every cell in your body, creating a nurturing environment where you can connect to your innerself. The experience will make you feel refreshed, aligned and rejuvenated.*** **What you may experience during this session:** * Stress Relief and deep relaxation * Ability to connect to your higher self, Ancestors and the divine * Relief physical pain * Release anxiety * Improve emotional balance * Increased feelings of joy, happiness, and inner peace * Ability to create self-love and improve relationships **What to bring:** * Your own water bottle * A Yoga mat (or use one at the studio) * A blanket ( or use one at the studio) * Eye mask (if you have one) * Comfortable clothes to lay down * If you are very sensitive to sound you may wear earplugs for this session **About Jenny Perez Curandera:** Jenny is a Full Time Curandera Shamanic Healer born into the Curanderismo tradition that utilizes Traditional Curanderismo Shamanic Healing modalities past down from previous generations. Her core values are to LIVE IN HARMONY with great spirit, the elements, nature, animals and people. DO NO HARM TO OTHER PEOPLE, PLANTS OR ANIMALS. In the traditional Curanderismo that Jenny practices the foundation is LOVE AND RESPECT to the spirit world, towards animals,plants, people,free will and the elders who guard the curanderismo tradition (Los Abulitos de la tradicion). Private bookings are available for ancestral healings,energy clearing , energy balancing and tarot readings. If you would like to book a private energy session or tarot reading before/after the sound healing session send an email to healing@curanderasheart.com or text (703)531-7046 ( Visit our site for more information on our upcoming ancestral healing ceremonies, trauma release ceremonies, cacao ceremonies, full moon ceremonies, women circles, breathwork sessions and energy clearing ceremonies to bring balance to mind, body and spirit) Stay connected via IG @curanderasheart Curanderas Heart is located in the Westover Village in Arlington VA . 5852 Washington Blvd unit 5 Arlington VA at a walkable neighborhood with food options and street parking. Space is limited allowing all of our events to have an intimate vibe. Due to limited space pre registration and arriving on time is very important. **DATE: SATURDAY** **TIME: 5pm-6pm Doors will open 30 minutes early ARRIVE ON TIME TO SET UP YOUR SPOT. DON'T KNOCK ON THE DOOR OR DISTURB THE SESSION. ONCE THE DOOR IS CLOSED IT MEANS SESSION IS ALREADY IN PROCESS AND IT WILL NOT OPEN UNTIL THE SESSION IS OVER.** **Energy Exchange: $45** **Address: 5852 Washington Blvd unit5 Arlington VA 22205** **Info: WWW.CURANDERASHEART.COM** **healing@curanderasheart.com** **703\. 531\.7046 call or text** \*\*What you may experience during this session:\*\*Stress Relief and deep relaxationAbility to connect to your higher self, Ancestors and the divineRelief physical painRelease anxietyImprove emotional balanceIncreased feelings of joy, happiness, and inner peaceAbility to create self-love and improve relationships **\*\*\*\*Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds for missed, canceled reservations or if you arrive after session has already started\*\*\*\***

**Do you want to play and grow with a band, without the commitment of starting a band? Join us for our Blues Jams. Great place to network with other musicians.** \*\*$10 for at the door\*\* \*\*Free for Singers and Drummers\*\* **\*Members Get in free and receive other benefits\*** **[Become a Member](https://patreon.com/DoctorStrings?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink)** **Beginner to Pro Blues jam 21+ only, BYOB. Every Thursday.** This is a smaller more practice focused event at my shop. **Open to everyone and is a learning experience for most.** Just bring your instrument(Electric), no need to bring an amp we have all of that. Do not bring a pedal board with a bunch of pedals. The amps are dialed in for blues, trust me it's all there. Drums are here already, very basic kit. If you want to bring cymbals or any other drum gear, please show up early to set up. Also please be aware that other people are going to play the kit as well.

Thursdays 7:00-8:30 pm May 21st, May 28th, June 4th, June 11th (jam session), June 18th This class is designed to help aspiring flatpickers learn essential skills, concepts, and techniques for Bluegrass Guitar. Whether you are new to bluegrass guitar or you already play and you are looking for strategies to improve, this class will be great for you. Students will learn: \- productive practice habits \- exercises to improve and refine technique \- how to approach songs vs fiddle tunes \- how to interpret melodies and create a solo \- how to play confidently in jam sessions \- how to manage speed Over the first three classes students will learn and practice techniques to develop both the picking and fretting hands as well as a few favorite sons and fiddle tunes. The fourth session coincides with the Bluegrass Jam so students will have an opportunity to use their skills in a practical setting. The fifth and final session will be a chance to identify challenges encountered in the jam and work on strategies to deal with them. Register Here: https://square.link/u/ykIchSEX

Come join our welcoming, low-pressure environment where you can practice performing, build confidence, stay motivated, and connect with others who play piano. Each session is intentionally structured and hosted to ensure everyone has time to play (if they choose), feel supported, socialize, and enjoy the experience. It’s not a class, but a thoughtfully guided space to help you stay consistent and make meaningful progress. **Details:** * Gatherings take place in a private home setting in the Northwest Columbus area (location to be shared after RSVPing) * Small group (max 7–8 participants) to keep the sessions personal and ensure everyone has time to play * Light snacks and refreshments provided * Small fee to support hosting and keep the group high quality and motivated

PLEASE NOTE!!! This event will be In-Person for our very 1st Improving collab! If you know the [Columbus Unity group](https://www.meetup.com/columbus-unity-user-group/) location, we'll be at the same place. This is our 1st event and are doing a soft launch with limited attendance. 1st come 1st serve. If you want to be there and we fill up, please email me at [info@thecogg.com](mailto:info@thecogg.com) and I'll be in touch. All street parking is free on Sundays but you can also pay to park in any of the local garages. See image of [parking map here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Mr9_LFIggbs-0_Zd3AJTGNqEhgMf2TzQ/view?usp=sharing). \-\-\- On the last Sunday of the month, we're having our usual end-of-the-month social gathering with our GameDev Meetup meeting. There will be announcements and presentations followed by some social networking Let's continue the conversations with good vibes and friends. All are welcomed from all ages and backgrounds to this public event. If we can, we'll be streaming or uploading the video later via our COGG YouTube channel here: [https://www.youtube.com/@TheCOGG/streams](https://www.youtube.com/@TheCOGG/streams) (Also please do subscribe if you have not done so!) No game development experience required! If you are interested in doing a 20 minute game development related presentation, please fill out our form online here: [https://goo.gl/forms/lVdTJZiNJewlPJuj1](https://goo.gl/forms/lVdTJZiNJewlPJuj1) Or e-mail us at info@thecogg.com with the following: Your Name, Company/Affiliation, Name of Your Game/Topic, Description, Tech Needs, and Your Contact. Be sure to check out our Discord for real time news updates: [https://discord.gg/NrBhuNQ](https://discord.gg/NrBhuNQ)

**Building a great product is one thing—building momentum behind it is another.** Join **Senior Product Manager Adam Solaiman** and **User Experience Manager Tyson Smith** for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to turn complex ideas into scalable products inside large organizations. In this session, they’ll share how teams move from ambiguity to execution—navigating organizational complexity, aligning stakeholders, and continuously evolving products after launch. You’ll walk away with insights on how to: * Build and sustain momentum across teams * Adapt to changing priorities without losing direction * Scale products thoughtfully in complex environments Whether you're driving a new initiative or growing an existing product, this conversation will give you practical strategies to keep things moving forward. Come connect, learn, and swap stories with fellow product professionals. \-\-\- Food and drinks will be provided by Switchbox, our generous host. Free parking will be available at the front and back sides of the Switchbox Office.