Listening To Music

Details Location: Crimson Whiskey Bar (Either the downstairs whiskey bar, or main floor bar, TBD) The purpose of Thinkers and Drinkers is to facilitate casual but meaningful and interesting conversations with other people in a face-to-face setting. The topics cover a wide variety of issues and are different for every meeting. While conversations may get heated at times, we ask that all members be respectful of each other and refrain from personal insults. Here's the updated version: *** **Topic: Reasons to Be Excited (A Technology Optimism Round)** It's easy to doom-scroll your way into thinking the world is falling apart. And honestly, some of our recent meetings haven't helped. So this time, we're flipping the script: what technology are you actually *excited* about? This isn't a request for blind techno-utopianism. Skepticism is welcome. But the goal is to spend some time on the genuine wins and promising horizons, because there are more of them than the headlines suggest. Here's a quick tour of some things worth being optimistic about: * **AI in everyday life** — Love it or hate it, AI tools are genuinely saving people hours of tedious work. From coding assistants to writing tools to writing this very event descriptin you're reading now to AI that sits inside your spreadsheets and email, the practical applications are moving faster than most people expected even two years ago. The question is less "will this be useful?" and more "who actually benefits, and when?" * **Clean energy's quiet boom** — Solar and battery storage have had a decade of jaw-dropping cost reductions. The U.S. added more renewable capacity last year than any year on record. It's not fast enough for some, but the trajectory is real. * **CRISPR and gene editing** — In late 2023, the FDA approved the first CRISPR-based treatment for sickle cell disease — a condition that has caused lifelong suffering for millions of people with very few good options. It's the first of what could be a long list of genetic diseases that are now, for the first time, actually curable rather than just manageable. * **Lab-grown meat** — Chicken and beef grown directly from animal cells, no slaughter required. It's real, it's been approved for sale in the US, and while it's still expensive and not yet on your grocery shelf, the cost curves are dropping fast. Whether you care about animal welfare, climate, or just think it's cool, this one is quietly wild. * **SpaceX and the new space economy** — Reusable rockets went from fantasy to routine. Launch costs have dropped by an order of magnitude in 15 years, opening the door to satellite internet in remote areas, new science missions, and yes, eventually humans on Mars (whether or not that excites you). * **Brain-computer interfaces** — Still early, still expensive, but Neuralink and others are giving paralyzed patients the ability to control devices with their thoughts. The sci-fi shelf life on this one is getting shorter. **Questions to Consider:** * Is there a technology you were skeptical about that has actually won you over? What changed your mind? * Which of these feels most overhyped — and which feels *under*hyped? * Are the benefits of new technology reaching people broadly, or mostly concentrating among the already-fortunate? * Is optimism about technology a luxury? Does it depend on where you live, how much money you have, or what you do for work? * What's something small and unglamorous — not AI, not space — that has genuinely made your life better recently?

**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.

Join us on Wednesday, March 18, 8:00-10:30 PM. Robert Mills (guest caller from PA) leads the dancing while David Knight (fiddle), Elisabeth Epstein (flute), Liz Donaldson (piano) play Register: [https://www.fsgw.org/event-6562814](https://www.fsgw.org/event-6562814?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN1VrTWpnbmdRSXFSVWh3anNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR79SGqH65Tb9IFcJbJJ6IsRwK1PFBrKB6y-hYQco5FUNNO87CTTAM0fR-2Bog_aem_1x2xPYAqQMqgd2UvL4ayuA) (Please note, you are not registered by responding on meetup, you must register through the FSGW website, or at the door if tickets are available) The FSGW weekly English Country Dance offers delightful dancing, led by talented callers, accompanied by top-notch musicians playing a wide variety of instruments. The crowd is friendly and enthusiastic; new dancers are always welcome and can get an informal lesson if they arrive around 7:30. You don't need to bring a partner, or dress up. * If you have not previously attended a Wednesday night English country dance at Glen Echo, you may select "first time free" when registering. New dancers are welcome. If you have no previous English country dance experience or would like a refresher, please arrive at around 7:30 for a lesson. Covid Protocol: masks and vaccinations are encouraged but not required. Some dancers are sensitive to fragrances, and they are grateful when you skip the perfume and scented after-shave. Additional information about this weekly event is available on the English Country Dance (in-person) web page. [https://www.fsgw.org/ecd](https://www.fsgw.org/ecd) **Pay at the door:** Admission - $15 FSGW Members, $8 Students and those with limited income, $17 Others. **Questions?** Email English Country Dance * **We look forward to dancing with you!**

Biodanza is now in Washington DC Weekly Wednesday evenings Come dance with us! **Worried?** **Anxious?** **Nervous?** Step away from the stress and into your body. Biodanza is a joyful, heart-opening movement practice that reconnects you to what’s real: your breath, your body, your emotions — and each other. With music, guided movement, and simple human connection, Biodanza awakens vitality, lifts your mood, and reminds you of the joy of being alive. **What to Expect:** ✨ Uplifting music & guided movement ✨ Connection without words ✨ A welcoming, inclusive group ✨ No dance experience required **Reserve your spot or ask a question:** at [www.biodanzausa.com](http://www.biodanzausa.com) on the “Classes” page Wednesdays Weekly 7-9pm Venue: Peastreet yoga in Dupont area close to metro

🎧 Armin van Buuren LIVE – DC Ravers Group Night Out One of the most iconic names in electronic music is coming to DC. Armin van Buuren is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential DJs in the world—an absolute legend in the global EDM scene. From massive festival stages to intimate club sets, his performances are unforgettable journeys through sound. This is a rare opportunity to experience him live right here in the DC area. Whether you’re a longtime trance fan or just getting into EDM, this is the kind of show that reminds you why people fall in love with electronic music in the first place. ⸻ 🔥 What to Expect • World-class production and energy • A crowd that truly loves the music • An immersive, uplifting, and high-energy set • The chance to go with a fun, social group instead of solo ⸻ 🎟️ Tickets Tickets must be purchased individually through the venue or major ticket platforms like Ticketmaster 💲 Expect pricing around $75+ per ticket (prices may rise) ⸻ 👥 DC Ravers Plan We’ll coordinate: • Pre-show meetup (drinks / social) • Entering together (optional) • Dancing as a group or 자유롭게 doing your own thing No pressure—come solo, bring friends, or meet new ones there. ⸻ ⚡ Why You Should Go Opportunities to see artists of this caliber locally don’t come around often—and they don’t stay cheap. If you’ve ever said “I should go to more shows”—this is your moment.

Lively dancable and so much fun! Get up and dance with Rebeca Barboza at Roda Movements March 22nd. Rebeca will sing while percussionist Henry Widener plays terrific Brazilian ♥️ rhythms to make you sway, samba, and forro. This event is great for all ages and a terrific way to meet, mingle, and have with other folks. Plus A portion of the proceeds go to support the Afro-Bahia Fest 2026 plus local musicians. Snacks and drinks will also be available ☺️ $12

Capital Blues! On Thursday nights dancers converge upon the Back Room at Glen Echo Park for the best in DJ’ed Blues dances in the Washington, D.C. area. Admission is $10 per person at the door via cash or credit. Enjoy a 45-minute lesson followed by 2.5 hours of dancing with fantastic DJs! If you need help finding the Back Room please refer to the calendar in the link below. https://glenechopark.org/parkmap

Join the group for *TINA - The Tina Turner Musical* at Capital One Hall on Saturday, March 21 at 8PM. Folks will need to buy tickets on their own, though I will keep an eye on any 4-pack offers. Please use the comment section below to start forming a ticket block. This musical reveals a comeback story like no other, of a woman who dared to defy the bounds of racism, sexism and ageism to become the global Queen of Rock n’ Roll. TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is a celebration of resilience and an inspiration of triumph over adversity. One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner has won 12 Grammy Awards and her live shows have been seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history. Featuring her much loved songs, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall and directed by the internationally acclaimed Phyllida Lloyd. THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is recommended for ages 14 and up. The show runs 2 hours and 40 minutes, including one intermission.

Get started! Whether you are experienced or a complete new thisdrum class offers fun for you. Learn the basics of popular Brazilian rhythms: samba, samba reggae, axé, ijexa and more. We provide the drums in a fun atmosphere to learn. Drop in:$15

**Rhythmic Dance Fitness** 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 at the Meditation Museum for a refreshing and enjoyable dance session! (Please wear socks & bring your water bottle). Fri., March 20th, 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Held at Meditation Museum, 9525 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20910. Free Event.

Siamese Dreamers are the DMV’s premier tribute to the Smashing Pumpkins, dedicated to accurately recreating the sound of one of the 90’s most groundbreaking, sonically diverse, and influential rock bands at their best. Free show!

# **Band and caller TBA** Beginner lesson at 1:30, regular dancing begins at 2:00 pm NOTE THAT WE ARE TEMPORARILY DANCING IN THE AFTERNOON INSTEAD OF EVENING. Dance with us in the afternoon then you can still go out in the evening! **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** 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 1:30 - 2:00, followed by dancing 2:00 - 430. 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. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.

I hope you'll join me at [Carfagna's](https://carfagnas.com/) AMAZING complex on Gemini/Polaris. *Live, local acoustic music during dinner.* **Come by early for happy hour til 6pm.** Or, join us for dinner; show time is 6-9PM, Thursday. Reservation at 6pm for 12 under Michele Z (overflow can linger near the bar). Each Thursday they host live music in their beautiful upscale bar at **Carfagna's Ristorante**; but you need to check out everything this place has to offer Italian under one roof!!

Join Sacred Sound Alchemy Columbus for a transformative Sound Bath experience that will take you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Immerse yourself in the powerful vibrations of various sound instruments like crystal singing bowls and rain drums, carefully orchestrated to balance your chakras and uplift your spirit. The soothing sounds will help you release negative energy, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. This event is perfect for those seeking a moment of tranquility and a chance to connect with their inner selves. Whether you are new to sound healing or a seasoned practitioner, you will benefit from the harmonious frequencies that will resonate with your body and soul. Come and allow yourself to be enveloped in a wave of healing energy, leaving you refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready for life's next chapter. Please bring something comfortable to lay on like a yoga mat. Being a pillow for your head or for under your knees and a blanket to cover over yourou. The library can get cold. Bring some water to help flush your body for after the session.

Join Sacred Sound Alchemy Columbus for a transformative Sound Bath experience that will take you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Immerse yourself in the powerful vibrations of various sound instruments like crystal singing bowls and rain drums, carefully orchestrated to balance your chakras and uplift your spirit. The soothing sounds will help you release negative energy, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. This event is perfect for those seeking a moment of tranquility and a chance to connect with their inner selves. Whether you are new to sound healing or a seasoned practitioner, you will benefit from the harmonious frequencies that will resonate with your body and soul. Come and allow yourself to be enveloped in a wave of healing energy, leaving you refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready for life's next chapter. Please bring something comfortable to lay on like a yoga mat. Being a pillow for your head or for under your knees and a blanket to cover over yourou. The library can get cold. Bring some water to help flush your body for after the session.

We thought of one of the interesting things that can be enjoyed at this time of the year. We will be meeting at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church for a "Fish Fry" in Marian Hall on Friday, March 27th at 5:00 PM. It might be fun for you to experience what has become a tradition on the Fridays before Easter. They will have fried fish or baked fish, French fries and Cole slaw, as well as beverages, all for $16.00 for adults. They will have other beverages and desserts available for sale, as well. We have never tried this, and sometimes there are quite a few people at these events so we hope that we will be able to find each other easily. I'll try to have signs outside Marian Hall that Identify our group. We hope to have you join us!