Music Fans

Celebrate the coming of spring with dance! Join local Brazilian favorite Lunna Gomes at Roda Movements in Wheaton, MD. Forro for fun and for a good cause, we are raising money to support the Afro-Bahia Fest and local music groups. Lunna's forro dance class is open to all levels. After class, let's have a turn on the dance floor, dance social starts after class. Event cost : $12

Come join us on Saturday, March 7th as we host our first School of Musical Traditions Jazz Faculty Concert! This show is perfect for jazz lovers and SMT community members. Come see us play our take on the music we love and teach. Featuring: Noah Gitlis: Guitar Henry Meade: Keys Jake Askarinam: Drums Brenda Padilla: Trumpet 6PM - 8PM, Ticket Cost: $20 Tickets: [https://square.link/u/2Sc2VlwU](https://square.link/u/2Sc2VlwU?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExS3d5UTAxcTI5bDdCdTVpZHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4a8uI7PlsAZP0sfRjBFfWRguk2Pgkd5dyI3Wrp8ALBv8dlzONCvGRdgFISBQ_aem_Wp8x8aXHrbVm7Qr47mQyZg)

First Saturday is sponsored by Joel Pomerantz, former board member of the Songwriter's Association of Washington. Keep in mind this periodic meetup will be canceled if there is another event at the maid at that time. Check the schedule at ElectricMaid.org to be sure. Questions/Concerns, contact Joel Pomerantz or myself at voice/text at 202 316 2203

The Mini-Fest (formerly the Midwinter Festival) returns to Browne Academy! Join us Saturday, March 7th in Alexandria, Virginia, for this FREE Folk Festival featuring musical performances, dance demonstrations, singing and instrument workshops, family programing, and more! Check back for updates on who will be performing! [More about the Mini-Fest](https://www.fsgw.org/mini-fest)

For James Taylor's birthday, let's sing a few of his songs that are not in the Rise Up books. See you at SOJO! Seasoned SOJO'ers already know the program, but below are all the details which may be helpful to our new members. MOST IMPORTANT POINTS: 1. If you have copies of Rise Up Singing and Rise Again, please bring them. If you don't, we may have some extras available for you to borrow (one time only, please). Both books are easy to find and order online. And here's a link to find YouTube Videos of any song in either book. https://www.riseupandsing.org/songs/search 2. Feel free to bring lyrics and chords to hand out for songs not in the books. If you'd like to bring a song that most people don't know well, see if you can find a YouTube link and post it in the comments when you RSVP. We'd like to listen a few times before the SOJO to get the hang of it. 3. Bring something to drink, as singing is likely to make you thirsty. 4. We appreciate (but do not require) contributions to cover our room rental costs of $75 per session. 5. Please do RSVP. It helps us know how to set up the room and allows us to contact you if we have to cancel. *** FURTHER DETAILS, if you like: * Our regular gatherings take place on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month. We meet from 2 to 5 p.m. with a break around 3:30. You can come for the whole time or just part of it. If you can arrive a little early to help set up or stay a little late to help put things back in order, that would be great. Occasionally we take pictures of our events. If you would rather not be photographed, just politely let the person with the camera know and step out of view. We'll be respectful of your wishes. Whether you're new to SOJO or not so new, we look forward to singing and playing with you!

Drumming is connection. Explore the culture of Brazil through it's diverse rhythms. Join this class and explore the distinctive rhythms unique to Brazil: jongo, maracatu, afro-samba, bossa nova, carimbo and samba. Instruments will be provided and this lesson is suitable for all levels. Sway and swing the Brazilian way. $15 class fee

**Celebrate MTV musical history** with a fun lineup of eight bands playing 15 minute sets of songs from the music video network that kicked it all off. Tickets @ $26: [https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/69497398/i-want-my-mtvflashband-showcase-washington-black-cat?mc_cid=b68ab29a7f](https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/69497398/i-want-my-mtvflashband-showcase-washington-black-cat?mc_cid=b68ab29a7f) **Flashband on Instagram:** [https://www.instagram.com/flashband_dc/](https://www.instagram.com/flashband_dc/) **Learn more about Flashband [via 7 Drum City](https://www.7drumcity.com/flashband.html)** If you fancy yourself a musician or singer, consider signing up for a future round of Flashband. I've participated in a few flashbands over the years and it's been an amazing experience each time. So many great musicians coming together to create fun sets, with a great high energy audience of friends and fans. I've loved watching other bands as much as I've enjoyed performing, it's a great night. -- Sunjeev **Official event description:** "I Want My MTV! Flashband On March 7th, Flashband is hitting Black Cat with a showcase for the ages: “I Want My MTV Flashband!” For over 40 years, we dialed into iconic TV music moments, studied our favorite artists, learned every new song and dance move… and then, on New Year’s Eve 2025, tech killed the video star — just like when video killed the radio star back in 1981. Get ready for eight all-new Flashbands to pay homage to decades of iconic MTV artists and songs that shaped music, culture, and airwaves for generations."

Every Second Sunday of the Month from 1-2 pm EST In this class Bebe Blumenthal helps kids learn to play music together. Kids have the opportunity to play the tunes they are learning in your private lessons with others - and learn new songs from others. Importantly kids learn how to collaborate, communicate, create and play well with others in a jam session. Mari facilitates a fun and supportive environment that encourages flexibility, experimentation, and listening. Parents and older siblings with accompanying instruments are welcome to sit in and support the jam. $30/session. Come every month or just once. Who knows - maybe you’ll meet future bandmates… [https://checkout.square.site/buy/RKAXL7VL3DZTFMNRJ2QOTQAT](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcheckout.square.site%2Fbuy%2FRKAXL7VL3DZTFMNRJ2QOTQAT%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOGhVQ2k0b2g0Tkh0MkNJTgEe8n49Ur8UheXrPvV9tuqM9tHt7roV98z1uB9noLudWMLlGXQDFlw9uplVnEk_aem_tGa34dgHF9MSrLXbb3lJxg&h=AT0dRLI4rVUl4bpQG_DUh9my34Zc_nc4xrFSTZrbKY8iqah0tWA_L6CPexeirKBgawv1CoAIsCbPUWkpkqjH74hlJavr9GuxTggxel-v635cTHs8JDc7d0oqeHoNCoaGZ4eamYckH-ucuJwzHmDtD9MXPFKK30JtqAI&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT1bMR07rIyK5Sln0FvxJp3kCXsOFI0bRjYhJoQFYiISS6ePbzbNOLMZndtLzCHE0LnQuGmPDdjpU9Sg_hbbC66Rosb2PKruxXGUvoqBrtp7ghRWCK654ffbPTXGNSDtE56KHG77JcCqwD-AyDdBOiZanG8pjte1eTQ)

[Click here to get your tickets](https://GoldAndGlamDMV2026.eventbrite.com/?aff=MU) DMV get ready for the ultimate Ghana Independence Celebration - Gold & Glam Independence Ball – The official Ghana at 69 Independence extravaganza in the heart of DC Join us for a crème de la crème independence Celebration and an exquisite night of glamour, fashion, music, food & cocktails. The celebration will feature taste of Ghana cuisine, independence ball, VIP and red carpet experience and the best Ghanaian DJs This was a sold out event last year. Don’t wait. Get your early bird tickets and tables now at GoldandGlamDMV2026.Eventbrite.com This is going to be yet another history in the making. Don’t miss out . Get your tickets now!!!

If you missed the first Meetup to see *Chez Joey* at Arena Stage or just want to see it again, there will be another opportunity on Sunday, March 8 at 7:30PM. I will be out of town that weekend, so folks will need to purchase tickets from [Arena Stage](https://tickets.arenastage.org/38123/38266) or [TodayTix](https://www.todaytix.com/washington-dc/shows/44633-chez-joey). There's still very good availability for that performance, so folks can use the comment section to share their ticket location preferences to hopefully form a ticket block. The year is 1940-something, and Chicago’s night scene is sizzling. Enter Joey Evans. A slick-talking, velvet-voiced songster with dreams bigger than the bandstand. But in a city where the right connections mean everything, he is caught between a bright-eyed chorus girl and a wealthy widow who can bankroll his big break—for a price. As the lights dim and the music swells, Joey’s got a choice to make: play it straight or risk it all for the spotlight. This classic Rodgers and Hart score, including “Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered,” “What Is a Man?,” and “I Could Write a Book,” now includes “This Can’t Be Love” and “The Lady Is a Tramp,” among others. Co-directed by Tony Award-winning choreographer Savion Glover and actor, director, and producer Tony Goldwyn, the stakes are high, the music is hot, and the game of romance and ambition never sounded so good.

**Caller: Frank Buschelmann** **Band: The Rosenthorns** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

Kevin Rhodus from Lucy Deep Park Northside is coming to talk to us about his extensive neighborhood Christmas light display that is open in November and December every year north of Dublin. 9 houses over 12 acres and over 120,000 individual controlled lights that sync to music which you can tune into on your radio! Quite impressive! https://ldplights.com/ We'll dive into the tech that runs the show -- should be a blast to hear about this very elaborate display! While we continue to pursue a more permanent venue for this Meetup, we’ll be using public library facilities based on availability. This session will be at the Dublin Library in the Meeting Room 2

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

Join us as we get together for a CMG-favorite event, the OSCAR PARTY AND RED CARPET BASH at the Drexel Theatre! The highlight of the movie year live on the big screen always makes for a fun and memorable evening! Here are details for this event: WHAT TO EXPECT: This year’s ceremony will be hosted once again by Conan O’Brien. In addition to the Oscars on the big screen, your ticket includes a Meal Deal from the Drexel’s new food partner Newfangled Kitchen (I’m checking on vegetarian/vegan options) along with unlimited popcorn and sodas, a free box of candy, and your first beer, wine or specialty drink on the house! Also included: Oscar-themed trivia with prizes from local businesses, on-site paparazzi, and the Drexel's Oscar ballot contest with a chance to win a year of free Drexel movies! Plus, the BEST and most FUN way to watch the Oscars with fellow film fans and your CMG friends! ADVANCE TICKETS: General public tickets are $45 but Movie Group Members and their guests get in for just $35! Here’s how to purchase your tickets: \* Option 1 – In Person: You can purchase at the ticket counter anytime during operating hours. Just mention you are with the Columbus Movie Group for the discounted rate. \* Option 2 – Online: If you prefer to purchase online, you can do so by going to the link below and following these instructions: 1. Click the link below. 2. Click the little TICKETS box then click BUY TICKETS. 3. If you are a Drexel Member, you can log in here to receive the Member/Group rate, which is the same. If you are not a Drexel member, click “No” and the $40 Rate will pop up. But, don’t fret. It’s a little hard to find but there’s a “Promotion Code” section on the screen. Click the “Know a Promotion Code?” box, enter “CMG2026” (case sensitive) and submit. Select the appropriate number of tickets in the Discount Rate section and click “Add.” Next “Proceed to Checkout” then “Checkout” and enter your credit card info. There’s a $1.50 online service fee but it’ll save you a trip to the Drexel. (If you don’t already have one, you will need to sign in or create an account first.) Sellout possible so please purchase yours as soon as possible in advance! LINK FOR TICKETS (See Above Instructions): https://prod1.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=373546\~e2e0a350-c626-4e33-bc63-27e983f4aecf&epguid=ab0b2f82-403c-4972-9998-5475e7dcfa0e&mdy=3/15/2026& DRESS: Dressing up for the occasion art of part of the fun! Dress up as much as you like – there will be everything from casual to formal at the event! Or you can go in character as one of this year’s nominated films! ARRIVAL: Doors open for CMG at 5:30pm so that’s when we’ll plan to meet! That’ll give us plenty of time to fill out our Oscar Ballots, pick up some free popcorn, candy, and something to drink, mix, mingle, take some photos, pick up your Newfangled Kitchen Meal Deal, grab a seat in our CMG Reserved Section, then settle in to enjoy the Academy Awards on the Big Screen! PICTURES: We’ll take pics throughout the evening and the Drexel Paparazzi will be on hand as well. We’ll also take a big group photo around 6:40 near the entrance before the show begins. If you happen to take some good shots yourself, be sure to upload them on the Oscar Party Meetup event! RESERVED SEATING: As you enter the theater, the roped off section to the right marked “Reserved” is reserved for you, your guest(s) and the Columbus Movie Group! VEGAN MEALS: As previously mentioned, the food vendor does NOT have a vegan option at this year’s Oscar Party. However, we DO have a solution! I have reached out to several individuals who are affected. If you are a vegan, plan to attend the Oscar Party and did not receive an e-mail from me, please reach out via private message post a note below. I’ll provide details off-line. And while there won’t be a vegan meal option this year, I think we do have a workable solution. And, all other plans are usiness-as-usual: popcorn, sodas, candy, on-site paparazzi, decorations, bar drinks (including your first drink on the house), the Drexel’s Annual Oscar ballot contest, along with the Big Show on the Big Screen and a fun group of Movie Group friends to watch ‘em with! BONUS LINKS: \* COMPLETE LIST OF NOMINEES: https://deadline.com/lists/2026-oscar-nominations-list/ \* INTERESTING ARTICLE ON RECORDS BROKEN, SUPRISING FACTS AND OSCAR FIRSTS: https://abc7.com/post/oscar-nominations-2026-surprising-facts-nominees-98th-oscars/18448908/ \* SHORT VIDEO MONTAGE OF THIS YEAR’S BEST PICTURE NOMINEES: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3abMnrsaUA \* FUN VIDEO OF OSCAR NOMINEES HEARING THEIR NOMINATIONS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6eY1yGQ2aU PARKING: Parking is available along Main Street in front of the theater, on Drexel Avenue, and other nearby side streets. Additional parking is available at the Bexley Municipal Parking Lot (two driveways west of the theatre). LINK: Should be a fun & festive evening and a terrific way to celebrate a great year of movies together! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan