Vocal Workshops

Hello Wimbledon creatives! After a first successful collage workshop edition, I have decided to keep it going and I am excited to announce the next one will be on Saturday 7 March 2026 from 3 to 5 pm at Wimbledon Library. Please ask at the reception for Exhibition Room 2 to find us upon arrival. Join me for a Collage Workshop where we will dive into the art of combining magazines, newspaper pages, and coloured paper to craft unique and quirky pieces. Whether you are feeling a little lonely and want some warm company, looking for a playful and artistic date, simply want to explore your creative side, or are tired of the digital world and want real interactions, this workshop is for you. Your ticket includes: All art materials to create your masterpiece but feel free to bring your own magazines or printed materials if you like. A patient artist guiding you step by step through your artwork. Let us celebrate our love for art and create interesting artistic collages together. Please bring a bag to take your masterpiece home. Your artwork is yours to keep. **Early Bird Offer: £19** – available until 28 February. Book here: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/collage-workshop-wimbledon-library-tickets-1983553168924?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/collage-workshop-wimbledon-library-tickets-1983553168924?aff=oddtdtcreator) Price increases to £34 after 28 February.

**AMPLIFY HER SONGWRITING CAMP IS BACK** We’re returning with another unforgettable **Amplify Her Songwriting Camp**, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more creative than ever. Spend a full weekend writing, collaborating, and connecting with an inspiring community of songwriters. You’ll be placed in groups of five, creating music to real daily briefs and bringing fresh ideas to life fast. We’ll close out the weekend with a **Sunday night listening party**, where a panel of industry professionals will share live feedback on your songs. 🎟️ **Tickets are on sale now — don’t miss out.** Come write. Come connect. Come amplify your voice. **Amplify Her Members receive 20% off.** **Here’s what to expect: A week filled with great vibes, incredible musicians, and great songs** The week begins on Thursday at 6 PM with a friendly virtual info session, where we’ll walk you through everything you need to know. It’s a great chance to ask questions and get excited for the days ahead. On Friday (5 pm - 7 pm), we’ll gather in person for a relaxed cocktail meeting — a chance to meet your fellow creatives, start building connections, and ease into the weekend together. The songwriting magic begins on Saturday (9:30 AM – 7 PM) and Sunday (10 AM – 6 PM) with two full days of writing, collaborating, and recording. Each day, you’ll choose from a selection of briefs and be encouraged to record one song in response. It’s all about exploring your creativity, pushing your boundaries, and sharing your voice. We’ll wrap up the weekend with a group feedback session and an industry panel, offering kind, constructive insights to help you reflect, grow, and celebrate what you’ve created. **Expect:** Daily songwriting challenges (1 song per day to a brief of your choice) A safe, welcoming, and empowering space to collaborate Insightful feedback from peers and industry professionals Real-world experience writing to briefs A beautiful community of like-minded creatives Lots of inspiration, support, and memorable moments This isn’t just a camp, it’s a celebration of who you are as a songwriter, musician, or composer. Whether you’re here to refine your craft, meet your people, or simply reconnect with your creativity, we can't wait to create with you. **[Make sure to reserve your ticket on our website.](https://www.amplifyher.co.uk/event-details/amplify-her-songwriting-camp-celebrate-womens-day-tickets-here)** **Ticket prices:** £89 – General Admission **Amplify Her Members receive 20% off.** **Follow us on:** [https://www.instagram.com/amplify_herLive/](https://www.instagram.com/amplify_herLive/) [https://www.amplifyher.co.uk/](https://www.amplifyher.co.uk/) [https://www.linkedin.com/company/amplifyher/](https://www.linkedin.com/company/amplifyher/)

Please note - make sure you book a space if you are coming to the event as we have a certain amount of tickets available. Have you ever been to a public speaking class where they expect to go up and speak for 2 minutes with no prior experience ? I think this is too hard for many people and just overwhelms the nervous system. This workshop is designed for people who want a gradual and easier approach.

We start in pairs and work our way up to smaller groups and slowly desensitise to being seen by a larger audience.The Speeches are are also short, from 10 seconds to 1 minute. You are under no pressure to do anything, all exercises are voluntary, no one will ever be put on the spot. I want people to view this class in the same light as a weight lifting class, if there was a weight to heavy for you , you would just say "I can't lift that yet" and there would be no shame nor embarrassment around it, so If something is abit to outside of your comfort zone, just sit it out and don't feel that you have to be embarrassed or have to explain yourself. We'll be in studio 12, at the theatre deli which is 107 Leadenhall street, it can be a bit confusing as is look a bit life and office building but it's actually studio and rehearsal spaces. I hope to see you there, if youre still worried feel free to send me a message and hopefully I can put your mind at ease 
Take care 
James. 
Gentle speaking

**Bookable via our website ➡️** https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodwork-wood-stool-weekend-10/ ⋆⋆⋆ Suitable for absolute beginners. Enjoyable for everyone. One weekend workshop. 10am – 5pm. By popular demand – a content-packed two-day basic carpentry woodwork course spread over one weekend. Beginners will be given plenty of help and more experienced students may work at their own pace. Make your own pine wood stool and take it home with you to be admired by friends and family. This is a great starter workshop that introduces the skills of how to measure accurately, cut precisely, and join planks together using dowels. In addition to this, the legs- made from class broomsticks – are connected to the base using a ‘wedged through tenon’ which is a classic woodworking joint and produces a very strong and pleasing result. The tools used include handsaws, chisels, planes, and spokeshaves and you can even get a chance to try an old-fashioned ‘bit and brace’ drill if you choose. If you are contemplating our longer ‘[Carpentry for Beginners](http://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/beginners-carpentry/)’ course, this can be a great way to gain confidence. Beginners will be given plenty of help and more experienced students may work at their own pace. If your knowledge of woodwork is a feint but a fond memory of CDT or carpentry at school, you are in the right place. Our experienced tutor will guide a small group through the design and making of an elegant pine stool using traditional hand tools. The workshop focuses on jointing wood with dowels, using and caring for a plane and chisel, using spokeshaves, and drilling with an auger. Intrigued? Come and find out more. All personal protection and the use of tools and materials are included. This workshop takes place over one weekend: 10am – 5pm.

Come and get the chance to speak in a supportive and friendly environment. Public Speaking will boost your confidence and give you more power to speak and to be listened to in both your personal and professional life. **What makes this public speaking session different from others you ask?** There is a strong emphasis on self-expression, creativity, trial and error, and most importantly, speaking practice! **What will you gain from this event?** * Gain confidence by overcoming your fear of public speaking * Learn to think on your feet with our Impromptu speaking format * Get feedback and improve your public speaking with a real audience * Tips and opportunities to practice: body language, voice, tone, pitch, uses of stories, use of pauses, humour, etc... **Here's how it works:** \*I may choose to change the format from time to time based on numbers, and to practice different aspects of public speaking in order to keep it challenging\* You will put your name in a hat/bowl and when your name is chosen, you will be asked to perform. You will speak for 2 minutes on a random topic given by the audience. This is called an impromptu speech. We will do 2-3 rounds of speaking followed by a feedback session at the end of the workshop. **Public Speaking suggestions:** TIP: Give your impromptu speech the following 3 sections below. 1. Introduction ("Today, I'm going to talk about....") 2. Body ("Here is my personal experience....") 3. Conclusion ("So, my key message is ....") Each speech is to be 2 minutes long. Audience size 10-15 people. You're not obligated to speak, although I may strongly encourage you to do so. **What to bring:** Yourself only- There are no mandatory necessities which you must bring. **Dress Code:** There is no dress code. It is best practice however, that you wear the attire for the occasion which you are practicing for. **Where to find us:** **Closest underground stations:** Bank, Monument, Liverpool Street, Aldgate - All 5 minutes walk away **Theatre Delicatessen** **107 Leadenhall Street** **EC3A 4AF** Should you have any problems locating the venue, please feel free to contact me before the start of the event. The event is wheelchair accessible. **\*Please note we start and end strictly on time\*** \*You will be refused entry beyond 7:10pm, so please reschedule if you should not make it\* **EVENT DURATION:** 3:45pm - Registration :: 4:00pm - Event start - 6:00pm - End **\*This event is FREE - for first timers only\* -** **FIRST TIMERS PLEASE NOTE:** You MUST book a free "First timer" ticket through Eventbrite and present this on attendance. Failure to do so means that you will need to pay £15. This is a measure intended to keep control of the number of students attending the event. **Cost: £15 per session** **First-timers only discount: £35 for 5 sessions**. Please speak to the organiser for registration. (These can be used within 60 days and you can attend any of our public speaking practice sessions on any day.) **Payment methods:** Cash in hand, Card reader, Pay on www.veespeak.co.uk ***Marketing and email subscription disclaimer:*** *We value your privacy, and would never we will never share or sell your details to a 3rd Party.* ***Email Subscription:*** *By signing up and attending our events you explicitly agree to be contacted by email from Veespeak's marketing team regarding our newest courses, discounts, and upcoming events. You can always opt-out if you feel the information shared is no longer relevant to you.* We may take pictures or record sections of the workshops for training and quality purposes. We will never use this information without your prior consent. **Website & Social Media:** *Website: [www.veespeak.co.uk](http://www.veespeak.co.uk/)* *Instagram: @veespeak - [https://www.instagram.com/veespeakps/](https://www.instagram.com/veespeak/)* *Facebook: @veespeak - [https://www.facebook.com/veespeakps/](https://www.facebook.com/veespeak/)* *Linkedin: @veespeak - [https://www.linkedin.com/company/veespeakps](https://www.linkedin.com/company/veespeak)* *Meetup Group: [https://www.meetup.com/veespeak](https://www.meetup.com/veespeak)* **Contact Information:** Email: hello@veespeak.co.uk Contact No: 07713 123321 Valentin Todorov - Organiser

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

Come and get the chance to speak in a supportive and friendly environment. Public Speaking will boost your confidence and give you more power to speak and to be listened to in both your personal and professional life. **What makes this public speaking session different from others you ask?** There is a strong emphasis on self-expression, creativity, trial and error, and most importantly, speaking practice! **What will you gain from this event?** * Gain confidence by overcoming your fear of public speaking * Learn to think on your feet with our Impromptu speaking format * Get feedback and improve your public speaking with a real audience * Tips and opportunities to practice: body language, voice, tone, pitch, uses of stories, use of pauses, humour, etc... **Here's how it works:** \*I may choose to change the format from time to time based on numbers, and to practice different aspects of public speaking in order to keep it challenging\* You will put your name in a hat/bowl and when your name is chosen, you will be asked to perform. You will speak for 2 minutes on a random topic given by the audience. This is called an impromptu speech. We will do 2-3 rounds of speaking followed by a feedback session at the end of the workshop. **Public Speaking suggestions:** TIP: Give your impromptu speech the following 3 sections below. 1. Introduction ("Today, I'm going to talk about....") 2. Body ("Here is my personal experience....") 3. Conclusion ("So, my key message is ....") Each speech is to be 2 minutes long. Audience size 10-15 people. You're not obligated to speak, although I may strongly encourage you to do so. **What to bring:** Yourself only- There are no mandatory necessities which you must bring. **Dress Code:** There is no dress code. It is best practice however, that you wear the attire for the occasion which you are practicing for. **Where to find us:** **Closest underground stations:** Bank, Monument, Liverpool Street, Aldgate - All 5 minutes walk away **Theatre Delicatessen** **107 Leadenhall Street** **EC3A 4AF** Should you have any problems locating the venue, please feel free to contact me before the start of the event. The event is wheelchair accessible. **\*Please note we start and end strictly on time\*** \*You will be refused entry beyond 7:10pm, so please reschedule if you should not make it\* **EVENT DURATION:** 3:45pm - Registration :: 4:00pm - Event start - 6:00pm - End **\*This event is FREE - for first timers only\* -** **FIRST TIMERS PLEASE NOTE:** You MUST book a free "First timer" ticket through Eventbrite and present this on attendance. Failure to do so means that you will need to pay £15. This is a measure intended to keep control of the number of students attending the event. **Cost: £15 per session** **First-timers only discount: £35 for 5 sessions**. Please speak to the organiser for registration. (These can be used within 60 days and you can attend any of our public speaking practice sessions on any day.) **Payment methods:** Cash in hand, Card reader, Pay on www.veespeak.co.uk ***Marketing and email subscription disclaimer:*** *We value your privacy, and would never we will never share or sell your details to a 3rd Party.* ***Email Subscription:*** *By signing up and attending our events you explicitly agree to be contacted by email from Veespeak's marketing team regarding our newest courses, discounts, and upcoming events. You can always opt-out if you feel the information shared is no longer relevant to you.* We may take pictures or record sections of the workshops for training and quality purposes. We will never use this information without your prior consent. **Website & Social Media:** *Website: [www.veespeak.co.uk](http://www.veespeak.co.uk/)* *Instagram: @veespeak - [https://www.instagram.com/veespeakps/](https://www.instagram.com/veespeak/)* *Facebook: @veespeak - [https://www.facebook.com/veespeakps/](https://www.facebook.com/veespeak/)* *Linkedin: @veespeak - [https://www.linkedin.com/company/veespeakps](https://www.linkedin.com/company/veespeak)* *Meetup Group: [https://www.meetup.com/veespeak](https://www.meetup.com/veespeak)* **Contact Information:** Email: hello@veespeak.co.uk Contact No: 07713 123321 Valentin Todorov - Organiser

# Safo Music's – Songwriting workshop **Sunday 8th March** **11:00am – 6:00pm** **Safo Studios, 23–27 Crouch Hill, London N4 4AP** **£40.00** **Led by Laurence Hobbs – gold & platinum-selling songwriter, producer, and owner of Safo Music.** *** After our sold out workshop last month we'd love you to join us for a full-day **Songwriting workshop** at Safo Studios – a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the joy of writing songs. Whether you’re just starting out or already experienced, this is your chance to connect with others and explore the craft of songwriting in a supportive, inspiring environment. ### What to Expect: Small group co-writing sessions in professional studios A relaxed space to share ideas and build confidence Meet like-minded musicians and discover new collaborators Personal mentoring and guidance from Laurence Hobbs throughout the day Working in teams, you’ll co-create original songs from scratch – blending lyrics, melodies, and experiences into something fresh and exciting. It’s all about enjoying the process, learning from each other, and celebrating the art of songwriting. Bring your instrument, your notebook, or just yourself – and spend the day writing with us. [ ](https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/JHMW8VKCW57Y4)**[Tickets: £40.00](https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/JHMW8VKCW57Y4)** Spaces are limited to keep sessions intimate – book now to secure your place. See you on the 8th March

**FREE FOR MEMBERS OR SIGN UP WHEN YOU ARRIVE** Hello music enthusiast, We're excited to invite you to our Songwriting Class held right here in the heart of musical Camden every Saturday at 2 p.m! Whether you're a budding songwriter or just looking to explore your creative side, this class is designed **for people under 30s and all skill levels.** Come be a part of our community!!! No matter your background or experience, all are welcome. Let's turn your musical ideas into real songs! If you want to know more information, text or call Thomas: 07310801741

Three hours of mid to long form improvisation, exercises and games focused around building original characters and narrative from scratch. No rules, no structure, just pure flow. Confident improvisers preferred but I am happy to show you the ropes if your quick :)

\*\*Please note, spaces are limited - Please book via Eventbrite page below\*\* [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/free-public-speaking-class-in-london-tickets-151793471359](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/free-public-speaking-class-in-london-tickets-151793471359) **Location** Old Diorama Arts Centre, 201 Drummond Street Regent's Place, NW1 3FE **FREE PUBLIC SPEAKING TASTER WORKSHOP** (Limited number of places available, please note that to guarantee a place in this event you have to book a place) **Workshop overview:** This session is a free taster for our full Public Speaking Course. You’ll get to experience the style, exercises and atmosphere firsthand before deciding whether deeper training is right for you. The workshop stands alone - you’ll still leave with practical tools, insights and the option to practice doing some speaking (if you wish) - and if you feel drawn to continue, attendees receive an exclusive discount towards the full programme (normally £498). We always with fun, ice breaker warm-up games to ease you into the session, followed by learning some simple public speaking technique exercises and finishing with some (optional) opportunities to practice doing some impromptu speaking in front of the group. The class will also include some group discussions to learn more about why we struggle with public speaking, and what solutions we can use to help us. Our principles are grounded in authenticity. Our approach to helping people overcome their fears is done through encouraging participants to drop the personas they wear in their day-to-day lives in order to express themselves with honesty, and discover their natural speaking style. We’re big fans of embracing vulnerability and strongly believe it’s a strength, not a weakness. Only through vulnerability do we drop our guard and communicate in a way that truly connects to others. **The Session will include:** \- Why we struggle with nervousness when speaking in public \- Our approach for embracing and overcoming these feelings \- Practical techniques to help you come out of your head and speak using your intuition \- A chance to practice delivering a short impromptu speech \- And much more\! \*\*Secure tickets HERE by [signing up on our Eventbrite page](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/free-public-speaking-class-in-london-tickets-151793471359)\*\* **About our teachers:** We have been running workshops since 2014. We have trained 10,000+ people. Our teachers compete in public speaking tournaments, have a mixture of traditional and improv acting training, studied various meditation and mindfulness techniques and are passionate about human psychology and behaviour. **Testimonials from past students:** "Definitely the best public speaking workshop I have been on! It’s much more than just improving your public speaking skills, it takes a deeper look into the subject, in terms of fears, and humanity. Mike’s approach and techniques is really about to gain a deep understanding to unlock your authentic self. It was transformative! Highly recommended!" - Kristīne Šica "Highly recommend this ! The teaching and approach is incredible and it works! I come so far in so many ways during the course of these workshops and been an incredible investment. Cheers Mike & Team" - Jez Williams Check out our [Google Reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=School+of+Connection&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAA_-NgU1I1qDCxMDczMDUxNU5JNTBLs0izMqgwTTUxNwaiJONEUwMjC4tFrCLByRn5-TkK-WkKzvl5eanJJZn5eQCGm1T4QAAAAA&hl=en&mat=CeauyV6l-fEkElYBpsFAC8HrnCPUPL5X21SFnV76ZHgJT6CYryblg9XcRxlZIopmomk7pa9VjBtQnKp2gHTa0ojvHwwS4or4aELTqJYZw7I0KHBSgX9ijR0oYgBFylK3ow&authuser=1#lrd=0x487605453de06f8f:0x5e473473b3a50288,1,,,,1 "https://www.google.com/search?q=School+of+Connection&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAA_-NgU1I1qDCxMDczMDUxNU5JNTBLs0izMqgwTTUxNwaiJONEUwMjC4tFrCLByRn5-TkK-WkKzvl5eanJJZn5eQCGm1T4QAAAAA&hl=en&mat=CeauyV6l-fEkElYBpsFAC8HrnCPUPL5X21SFnV76ZHgJT6CYryblg9XcRxlZIopmomk7pa9VjBtQnKp2gHTa0ojvHwwS4or4aELTqJYZw7I0KHBSgX9ijR0oYgBFylK3ow&authuser=1#lrd=0x487605453de06f8f:0x5e473473b3a50288,1,,,,1") for more. **More on Our Philosophy:** Our mission is bigger than just helping people become better at public speaking, our mission is to help create a more transparent and connected society. Our society celebrates extrinsic success; confidence is presented to be smooth, slick, suave and charismatic. Because of this we neglect parts of our personality, our feelings, our idiosyncrasies, our uniqueness, our quirkiness and ultimately our vulnerability in pursuit of becoming confident, according to what society deems as confidence. However, we risk becoming ‘well-rehearsed robots’ and not sincere individuals, who aren’t afraid of expressing their humanness. Our approach offers a very non-conventional way of become an empowering and inspiring communicator. **Our Previous Brand (Public Speaking London):** **[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rl7dAKFp1qs&t=98s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rl7dAKFp1qs&t=98s "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rl7dAKFp1qs&t=98s")** **Contact details:** **[https://schoolofconnection.org/](https://schoolofconnection.org/ "https://schoolofconnection.org/")** Email: hello@schoolofconnection.org Phone: 020 3151 9908

**Update: full for all instruments** *Please only sign up if your instrument (or vocals) is not indicated above as full for this session.* 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. Always use the top of the description to see if there is an available slot for your instrument - please do not try to work this out yourself by looking at the other attendees' instruments. **Tunes this week (Sat Mar 7)** * Blue Monk in Bb (warm up) (Chad LB) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMMV08xo43U * Meditation in C (Dexter Gordon) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mz2nNNj7O8o * Someday my prince will come in Bb (Miles Davis) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWN9UfUV9eE * Afternoon in Paris in C (Benny Golson) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiaTpTNoPa0multi (attempt the harmonising lines) 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. **Tune preview - next novice session (Sat Mar 14)** * Fly me to the moon in C (warm up) (Scott Hamilton) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhIapeq7GBU * On Green Dolphin Street in Eb (Miles Davis) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGVdAlxlp18 * Moanin' in Fm (Chad LB) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyQm1kE41os * Doxy in Bb (Davis, Rollins) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWreJOSbIQQ **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 **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!

**Update: full for drums, bass, guitar, piano, 2 of 3 spots taken for lead instruments (sax, trumpet, violin, flute)** *Please only sign up if your instrument (or vocals) is not indicated above as full for this session.* 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. Always use the top of the description to see if there is an available slot for your instrument - please do not try to work this out yourself by looking at the other attendees' instruments. **Tunes this week (Sat Mar 7)** * Blue Monk in Bb (warm up) (Chad LB) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMMV08xo43U * Meditation in C (Dexter Gordon) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mz2nNNj7O8o * Someday my prince will come in Bb (Miles Davis) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWN9UfUV9eE * Afternoon in Paris in C (Benny Golson) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiaTpTNoPa0multi (attempt the harmonising lines) 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. **Tune preview - next novice session (Sat Mar 14)** * Fly me to the moon in C (warm up) (Scott Hamilton) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhIapeq7GBU * On Green Dolphin Street in Eb (Miles Davis) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGVdAlxlp18 * Moanin' in Fm (Chad LB) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyQm1kE41os * Doxy in Bb (Davis, Rollins) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWreJOSbIQQ **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 **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!

**Update: full for drums, bass, guitar, piano, 2 of 3 spots taken for lead instruments** Note: please sign up for the session here directly - I will keep the instrument availability up to date. This is a novice session with some of the songs swapped out for more tricky standards. There is also a single slot each for piano and guitar, as part of progression from playing as individuals toward paying more attention to the collective sound of group. The additional time will also allow ballads to be sometimes included. The group is also encouraged to use some of the additional time to listen to parts of well known recordings together and pick up on features and ideas beyond what's on the real book. Attendees would be expected to be comfortable playing at a novice session first before signing up. Sometimes the group gets through the setlist, with multiple renditions, with time still to spare. If everyone is happy to move on, feel free to use the remaining time to call and jam over a few tunes. full list of scheduled sessions: [https://www.meetup.com/Practice-Jazz-Jam-Sessions/events/](https://www.meetup.com/Practice-Jazz-Jam-Sessions/events/) **What is it** a pre-selected set of jazz standards for each session that you can prepare for in advance, and rehearse live with others in a friendly and welcoming environment. See below for this week's setlist. please message Xie to find out more about signing up to attend. Location: Vortex upstairs This novice+ session is limited to up to: 1 drummer, 1 bass, **1 keys, 1 guitar**, 3 lead instruments. The top of the description will indicate if there is an available slot for your instrument. Playing the melody, or "head" - the responbility is shared between horns players (e.g. sax, trumpet), 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 **Tunes this week (Sat March 7)** * If I were a bell in F (medium-up tempo swing) (Miles Davis) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36wafFjFdYs * Groovin' High in Eb (up tempo swing) (Parker, Gillespie) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oslMFOeFoLI * Moon River in C (ballad) (Chad LB) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgGX6a8ept8 * There will never be another you in Eb (Chet Baker) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjI5IjsUcSs 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. **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](https://www.seventhstring.com/fbindex.html) [http://therealbook.info/](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 **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 **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!

Join Voice Over Pros Of Ohio for an exciting morning of networking, and exploring opportunities in the world of voice acting. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this event is perfect for expanding your network, learning how to start a VO business, and for honing your skills. Connect with fellow voice actors and VO experts, that will help you succeed in your voice over business. This event will feature discussions on professional development, entrepreneurship in the voice over industry, with tips for navigating the world of voice acting. Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn from others, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and take your voice over career to the next level. Join us Saturday, March 28, from 10am - 12pm and learn how to start or grow your voice over business. Let your voice be heard! The $10 fee covers refreshments and door prizes.

The topic for March is "Our Bodies, Ourselves" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

Welcome, readers! Our March read is **_The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver._** The story follows Taylor Greer, a young woman from rural Kentucky who leaves home for the West, only to find herself unexpectedly becoming the guardian of an abused Native American toddler named Turtle. In Tucson, Arizona, they form a makeshift family with a diverse group of people, including Guatemalan refugees and a single mother, exploring themes of motherhood, community, belonging, and finding hope in hardship. The story blends humor with serious issues, creating a story about finding family in unexpected places. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!