Soul Music

Whatsupdc. presents Salonhouse, an intimate house-concert venue where music, dialogue, and community converge. These unique experiences dissolve the boundaries between artist and audience, creating a shared space for connection. Through compelling performances and thought-provoking discussions, Salonhouse invites listeners to engage deeply with the art and with one another. It’s more than a concert - it’s a place to come together, connect, and explore the sounds, ideas, and stories that shape us. Doors: 7PM Show: 8PM Named a 2025 Tiny Desk Top Shelf artist, singer-songwriter Taisha Estrada has been making waves in DC’s music scene since her arrival. Estrada engages audiences with a vibrant stage presence and is known for her powerful, genre-fluid voice and vulnerable, bilingual lyricism. Born in Carolina, Puerto Rico, the rhythms of bomba y plena were an integral part of Taisha’s upbringing. Her debut record “Nostalgia Ajena” (released in April 2023), pays homage to these roots. Since then, Estrada has made a conscious effort to expand her artistry beyond Latin music. Her latest release, a single entitled “El Abstracto,” earned Estrada the Tiny Desk recognition, revealing a more assured composer. https://partiful.com/e/usGrOzh8cGmCBsiokuUR?source=share&fbclid=PAZnRzaAP4xG1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAaf9NUtqWhubAezmVL8qkJiI8ip0jx_svI6xSzFwF1yGLme3RaYa5R-HANU0kQ_aem_n_7qDhF-OAjBa3iDx-ZkHA

Each month Noah Gitlis teaches a different Jazz Standard with emphasis on melody, harmony, accompaniment, and rhythm. The goal of the class is to help students boost their jazz repertoire, and build the skills required to feel confident in a jazz jam session. These classes are a lot of fun and a great way to get out and play with other people while learning some really fun music. All instruments and skill levels are welcome but students should have basic proficiency on their instrument to get the most out of the class. Songs such as: Blue Bossa Autumn Leaves Footprints All of Me So what My Favorite Things Ages 14+ Register Here: https://square.link/u/e1yAgBNo

For Smokey Robinson's birthday, let's sing a few of his songs or any of your other Motown favorites. 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!

● Are you looking for a moment of peace in the middle of a busy world? ● Would you like a simple way to reconnect with divine love, clarity, and inner guidance? ● Curious about spirituality—but not sure where to begin? You are warmly invited to a spiritual gathering. Join us from the comfort of your own home or in person and experience the sacred sound of HU. HU helps to open the heart and bring a sense of peace, comfort, love, and inner guidance. Please invite friends, family, or anyone who has an interest in spirituality. Free to attend, with no obligation or commitment. What to Expect: ● A short reading ● Gentle singing of HU (or you may simply listen) ● Quiet reflection ● Spiritual Conversation Join us in-person at the Central Maryland ECK Center, 1738 Elton Rd., Suite 104, Silver Spring, MD 20903. Or Online at [THE SOUND OF SOUL EVENT](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89597899210?pwd=reKwx1zJtFNylttx8N4LKs3zYJN7a3.1) Meeting ID: 895 9789 9210 Passcode: 978196 Phone: 301-715-8592 For local information, call: 301-439-2120 Presented by the MD & DC Satsang Societies, Inc., Chartered Affiliates of Eckankar. Copyright © 2026 ECKANKAR. The terms ECKANKAR, ECK, EK, MAHANTA, SOUL TRAVEL, and VAIRAGI, among others, are trademarks of ECKANKAR, PO Box 2000, Chanhassen, MN 55317-2000 U.S.A.

Come join us in call and response chanting (kirtan) of ancient mantras! Mantras are melodic phrases in the ancient language of Sanskrit that allow us to travel beyond the incessant ruminations of our mind and touch a part of ourselves that can only be reached by the sound of our own voices. The self calling out to the SELF and being heard! This event is free, but donations are appreciated 🙏🏾 Devadas is a kirtaniya, composer and artist hailing from Brooklyn, New York. He leads kirtans throughout the world and has recorded a wide variety of acclaimed CDs, including his latest releases, 3 Prayers and Radio Nada. In 2012, Devadas collaborated with indie-rock icon J Mascis to produce and record the film score for the feature documentary One Track Heart: The Story of Krishna Das. Devadas produced Nina Rao’s chant album, Antarayaami, and in 2016 launched the Lokah Peace Project, an online and ever-expanding video project aimed at inspiring reflection, empathy and harmony.

**Circlesinging Workshop: Discover Your Musical Voice (90 minutes)** **Register here**! [https://pci.jotform.com/form/260257573283158](https://pci.jotform.com/form/260257573283158) Join members of VoiceExchange on February 22 for an introduction to -- or continued practice of -- the art of collaborative vocal improvisation. In this 90-minute workshop, we'll explore the captivating practice of circlesinging—where voices intertwine to create spontaneous, layered musical landscapes without instruments, written music, or rehearsal. **The Workshop Experience** Standing together in a circle, you'll discover your innate capacity to create music with nothing but your voice. We'll guide you through foundational techniques for developing simple musical patterns that blend with others, creating beautiful moments of shared sound. Through focused instruction and guided practice, you'll experience the unique joy of co-creating improvised vocal music. This workshop draws from practices developed by Bobby McFerrin, Rhiannon, and Música do Círculo, introducing you to the essential elements that make collaborative vocal improvisation both accessible and deeply rewarding. **What You'll Learn** * Basic techniques to unlock your personal capacity for musical invention * How to create simple looped musical ideas that combine with others * Foundational skills including listening techniques and basic vocal layering **Who Should Attend** This workshop welcomes anyone comfortable with their singing voice—particularly those who've found themselves naturally harmonizing with songs on the radio or humming improvised melodies. No formal music training or ability to read sheet music required—just bring your curiosity and willingness to explore. **What You'll Take Away** * **First Steps in Musical Discovery:** Begin to uncover your unique musical voice and capacity for spontaneous creation * **Taste of Community Creation:** Experience the connection that forms when voices unite in collaborative musical conversation * **Introduction to Mindful Listening:** Practice attentive listening and responding through sound **Workshop Details** **Date**: Sunday, February 22, 2026 **Time**: 3:00-4:30 PM **Location**: Elwood Smith Community Center, 601 Harrington Rd, Rockville, MD 20852 **Parking**: Available in lot outside the building **Register here**! [https://pci.jotform.com/form/260257573283158](https://pci.jotform.com/form/260257573283158) Presented by members of VoiceExchange, a vocal improvisation ensemble dedicated to exploring and sharing the joy of collaborative vocal creation. **Contact**: [circlesinging.maryland@gmail.com](mailto:circlesinging.maryland@gmail.com) \~\~ This event is supported in part by the Maryland State Arts Council ([msac.org](https://msac.org/)). \~\~

[Link to Purchase Movie Ticket](https://silver.afi.com/movies/detail/0100005416) We’re heading to AFI Silver Theatre in Silver Spring, Maryland to catch the new short film by Kahlil Joseph, BLK News: Terms and Conditions. Kahlil Joseph has directed music videos for several prominent artists, including: * Kendrick Lamar * Beyoncé * FKA Twigs * Flying Lotus * Sampha Short Film Synopsis: Adapted from Kahlil Joseph’s renowned video art installation, BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions is a distinctive cinematic experience that mirrors the sonic textures of a record album, weaving fiction and history in an immersive journey where the fictionalized figures of W. E. B Du Bois and Marcus Garvey join artists, musicians, Joseph’s family, and even Twitter chats, in a vision for black consciousness. Tickets are $14 and the purchase link includes the showtimes below the synopsis! Let us know if you have any questions!

* Are you looking for a moment of peace in the middle of a busy world? * Would you like a simple way to reconnect with divine love, clarity, and inner guidance? * Curious about spirituality—but not sure where to begin? You are warmly invited to a spiritual gathering. Join us from the comfort of your own home or in person and experience the sacred sound of HU. HU helps to open the heart and bring a sense of peace, comfort, love, and inner guidance. Please invite friends, family, or anyone who has an interest in spirituality. Free to attend, with no obligation or commitment. What to Expect: * A short reading * Gentle singing of HU (or you may simply listen) * Quiet reflection * Spiritual Conversation Join us in person at the Central Maryland ECK Center, 1738 Elton Rd., Suite 104, Silver Spring, MD 20903. Or Online at [THE SOUND OF SOUL EVENT](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89597899210?pwd=reKwx1zJtFNylttx8N4LKs3zYJN7a3.1) Meeting ID: 895 9789 9210 Passcode: 978196 Phone: 301-715-8592 For local information, call 301-439-2120.

Urban Soul Line Dancing is a beginner to intermediate to advanced class. Come and learn intermediate/advanced dances to R&B, Jazz, Rap and Contemporary music. The class is designed to reduce stress, improve flexibility, boost memory, lose weight and build confidence and self esteem. The session is offered InStudio only. **Sign up at www.piesfitnessyoga.com required at least two hours before class begins.** 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.

Let go of the week and welcome the weekend. Join master teacher Ann Kite **in person every Friday** at 8pm for a dynamic, deeply embodied release. Each week, 60–75 people gather to dance together in a supportive, spirited community. Ann has held this group for years, creating a **safe space to sweat, shift, and soften** the ego’s grip so the freer, wilder, more alive part of you can come through. Movement is for everyone, whether you’ve danced for years or are brand new. This **isn’t about performing or getting the “right” steps.** It’s about tuning into your body’s natural rhythms, finding freedom in stillness and motion, and remembering what it feels like to be fully alive. Whether you’re seeking connection, healing, or simply a fresh perspective, you’re **welcome exactly as you are**. Movement is the doorway. We’ll guide you the rest of the way. **Purchase tickets:** [https://www.annkite.com/letgo](https://www.annkite.com/letgo)

# **Unlocking Flow: Aligning with Your Natural Rhythm** ### **Step into ease, creativity, and conscious momentum.** Flow is the state where effort meets ease, and time seems to dissolve. This workshop explores how to access and sustain flow in your daily life by aligning with your natural rhythms, mentally, emotionally, and energetically. Through movement, breathwork, and mindful awareness, you'll learn how to cultivate flow states that support creativity, productivity, and spiritual alignment. **Key Takeaways:** * Understand the science and spirituality of flow states * Identify your personal rhythm and energy cycles * Learn practices to enter and sustain flow * Enhance creativity, focus, and inner harmony Saturday, Feb. 21st, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm. Held at Meditation Museum, 9525 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD Free Event – Register at: [https://shorturl.at/6wKXS](https://shorturl.at/6wKXS)

Meeting Room 2b, Main Library Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. We desire to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and each person is treated with compassion and respect.

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.

Join us for a vibrant gathering that honors the heart and hustle of local entrepreneurs. It Takes a Village is more than an event it’s a movement to uplift and spotlight small business owners who pour passion into their craft and creativity into our community. From authors and bakers to jewelry makers, t-shirt designers, candle crafters, and beyond. This is your chance to meet the makers, support their work and celebrate the spirit of collaboration. **_Expect_** * Local vendors showcasing handmade goods * Live demos and storytelling from featured creators * Food, music, and community vibes * Opportunities to shop, connect and be inspired * Celebrate the power of small businesses and we all rise

**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!

# **Band: Old Possum's Menagerie; Caller: Richard Ades** 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.

**Community Dance – Every Friday at Unity of Columbus** Let go of the week’s stress and move into joy! Join us every Friday for an evening of community, connection, and dance at Unity of Columbus. It’s a chance to meet new friends, express yourself through movement, and experience the emotional healing that comes from music and rhythm. No dance experience needed — just bring your energy, an open heart, and your dancing shoes! Dance is freedom. Dance is healing. Dance is fun.