Vocal Workshops

Following the 5 STAR REVIEWED sell out success of MACBETH and TWELFTH NIGHT - the Acting Gymnasium's acclaimed Saturday workshop returns with a new production of OTHELLO which will play at Network Theatre Waterloo in February 2026. Email: actinggymnasium@gmail.com - if you'd like to get involved.

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

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

**5 Elements Constellation workshop - London** Saturday 24 January 2026 10 to 17:30h 5 Issue holders: £140 Representatives: £70 Join us for this in person confidential and supportive constellation group experience. Constellation work allows us to work with the resonance field revealing hidden dynamics, entanglements and burdens that we unconsciously got involved in and make our journey forward in life less than it could be. The focus of the work is “Health” in the broadest sense of the word. I define this as a movement towards the true authentic self in a clear and objective way. For additional information and registration please send a message to: info@emersonbastos.co.uk **Future workshop dates:** Hastings 31 January 2026 5 Elements Constellation Workshop 10 to 530pm Bucharest - Romania 5 Elements Constellation Workshop 7 & 8 March 2026 Athens - Greece Giving the Here-and-Now a Chance Constellation Workshop Saturday 14 March 2026 5 Elements Constellation Workshop Sunday 15 March 2026 Agios Nikolaos - Crete - Greece Giving the Here-and-Now a Chance Constellation Workshop Saturday 21 March 2026 5 Elements Constellation Workshop Sunday 22 March 2026 London Giving the Here-and-Now a Chance Constellation Workshop Saturday 18 April 2026 10 to 5.30pm Sao Paulo (SP) Brazil Casa Ubuntu - Brooklin 5 Elements Constellation Workshop 2 & 3 May 2026 Sao Paulo (SP) Brazil Bairro Santana 5 Elements Constellation Workshop 16 & 17 May 2026 London 5 Elements Constellation Workshop Saturday 6 June 2026 Saturday 18 July 2026 For additional information and registration please send an email to: info@emersonbastos.co.uk You will find more information about the 5 elements constellation by scrolling down on the webpage below: www.emersonbastos.co.uk/workshops/ Emerson Bastos PGDip. Gestalt Psychotherapy MBACP Constellation Facilitator ISCA REgistered Shiatsu Practitioner/Teacher FwSS T

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

Check the end for terms and conditions, by booking you are agreeing to them. **What to expect for first-timers:** by now I have organised over 1000 photography workshops and you can see my work [here](https://vosa.photography/). My approach is allowing one-on-one time with the model in a small group with a laissez-faire style, not intruding on the creative process or micromanaging. I want to be helpful without choking your creativity. People with different experience levels mix in the group, so I will ask how I can help, where you are at in your photography and if there is anything you wish to improve or if there is anything you like to try. Perhaps you just want to get your camera out, get confidence, practice and shoot, and that's fine too! If you want to test or learn something, I will help you; if you need advice, I will help you too, and if you just want to shoot and have a good time, that's great too! We meet outside Bank Station infront of the Royal Exchange big stairs. Save on booking fees and get one on one tuition on our website at: [https://vosaphotographyworkshops.com/event/photography-workshop-with-aurora/](https://vosaphotographyworkshops.com/event/photography-workshop-with-aurora/) We are booked with Aurora We will assist each other, making it a great day to try and test. I will bring flash/reflector that you can use. Suitable for beginners and experienced photographers. Shoot for practice, fun or your portfolio. Any advice or help that you need please just ask on the day, I can set you up shooting in manual in no time. You can also use our flash and I can help you setting it up, even if it is your first time. Reflectors will also be at hand. We will shoot in a small group of max 4 in turns and helping each other. Film cameras and video recording are welcome. You can check what we have been up to lately on our Instagram [@shooting_with_models.](https://www.instagram.com/shooting_with_models/?hl=en) Looking forward to it! Virgilio [https://vosaphotographyworkshops.com/](https://vosaphotographyworkshops.com/) [@vosa.photography](https://www.instagram.com/vosa.photography/?hl=en) [https://vosa.photography/](https://vosa.photography/) Terms and conditions: By purchasing tickets to attend you are waiving any liability on my part for personal damage or accident to you or your personal belongings. You are responsible for your own person and belongings. Tickets are non transferable and non refundable except in case of event cancellation, please double check your schedule before signing up. You agree to follow the organizers instructions at all times and be respectful to all attending and members of the public. When shooting with a model strictly no physical contact with the model, you can instruct verbally or demonstrate asking to mirror your movement or position...Please keep comments tasteful. The booked model could be changed if the original model could not attend for any reason. The stated number of attendeed is a target rarely missed, most often could be lower if bookings are low or in rare occassions higher due to the different booking platforms not synchonising, arrangements will be made if it is deemend by the organiser to significantly impact the smooth running of the workshop. **Usage**: as the photographer you have the copyright, models sign a model release form that allows the photographers in the workshop to use the photos for personal, portfolio, social media, art, competitions, magazines... **Not allowed usage** : stock photography, associated with third party brands, demeaning and deep fake including adult content. You can take a screen shot of the release free of charge on the day of the shoot, if you need a copy afterwards there is a £10 admin fee. Occasionally you might be recorded in behind the scenes videos, like the instagram stories that we post or the like with an effort to preserve your privacy but if you mind it just make it known by sending me a direct message and you wont appear in any recording.

**SOLD OUT - The next workshop is on Sunday 8th March** **[https://tinyurl.com/yfhstksx](https://tinyurl.com/yfhstksx)** **Safo Music's – Songwriting workshop** **Sunday 25th January** **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 like 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/WJTRS3LACZ6CS)**[Tickets: £40.00](https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/WJTRS3LACZ6CS)** Spaces are limited to keep sessions intimate – book now to secure your place. See you on the 25th January

**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 :) STUDIO 2 - ' Old man Twister'

* Are you longing for more confidence to speak up for what's important to you? * Do you find that you know your needs and how to craft them into a language that others can hear, yet in the moment, or with certain people the words just don’t come out? * Perhaps you manage to voice your needs, but find yourself stuck, unable to find a way forward with the other person, leaving you questioning whether this approach to communication really works? **Here’s what you can look forward to learning in this training:** * Discover and express your authentic voice in the moments and relationships that matter most to you. * Recognise and work compassionately with your inner judgments, gaining clarity about your true needs. * Reframe your offering so that the other hears it as a gift and not a punishment. * Gain insights into how our nervous systems shape interactions, and learn how to work with this awareness to foster understanding. * Build confidence in advocating for your needs effectively and consistently. The session will involve reflection, discussion, practice and role play. **Pre-requirements:** Please ensure you have completed a Level 1, NVC Foundation Training before attending this session. **Venue:** The Bridge, 73-81 Southwark Bridge Road, London Bridge **Date & Time:** Saturday 24th of January, 10 am - 5pm **Registration Required** - [https://www.paulinedoohan.com/events/event-one-c8aad-d95ss](https://www.paulinedoohan.com/events/event-one-c8aad-d95ss?fbclid=IwYnJpZBEwWFRNbmVIOXdyT215eUpYYXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5CSlwudPfdoUwwIyKHQayaRr2g1J5D1KpHuKArdFrBwFgaBllRVrnXab_3xg&brid=ksFwOMMBxMdEhujFWxXAkA)

**Update: full for all instruments and vocals** 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 24 Jan)** * Bolivar Blues (aka Ba-Lue Bolivar Ba-Lues-Are) in Bb (warm up) (Thelonious Monk) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5cORjofgYk * Take Five in Ebm (tricky) (Dave Brubeck) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmDDOFXSgAs * Days of wine and roses in F (Dexter Gordon) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgVUGzrzJ20 * Nardis in Em (Joe Henderson) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsENJXvdz7M 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 31 Jan)** * Take the A train in C (warm up) (Vache, Allen) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8JJv13K3WU * Jordu in Cm (Brown, Roach) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GslhRUBgXNI * Hackensack in F (Thelonious Monk) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVDs_Nn-0a8 * Little Boat (O Barquinho) in Bb (Eric Alexander) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiMVlSVMMPw **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 **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, guitar, bass, piano, lead instruments (sax, trumpet, violin, flute)** 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 24 Jan)** * Bolivar Blues (aka Ba-Lue Bolivar Ba-Lues-Are) in Bb (warm up) (Thelonious Monk) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5cORjofgYk * Take Five in Ebm (tricky) (Dave Brubeck) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmDDOFXSgAs * Days of wine and roses in F (Dexter Gordon) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgVUGzrzJ20 * Nardis in Em (Joe Henderson) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsENJXvdz7M 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 31 Jan)** * Take the A train in C (warm up) (Vache, Allen) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8JJv13K3WU * Jordu in Cm (Brown, Roach) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GslhRUBgXNI * Hackensack in F (Thelonious Monk) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVDs_Nn-0a8 * Little Boat (O Barquinho) in Bb (Eric Alexander) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiMVlSVMMPw **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 **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!

Confidence can be cultivated in many ways—through reflection, conversation, creativity, and practice. In this Confidence Lab session, we’ll explore one powerful pathway: **building confidence from the inside out through physical expression and movement**. This experience is designed to help you reconnect with your body as a source of insight, self-trust, and presence. We’ll begin by grounding into what’s bringing you here, creating space to notice how your body is showing up and what it’s holding. From there, you’ll be guided through accessible movement exercises that invite awareness and choice—isolating different parts of the body, experimenting with movement, and practicing what it feels like to take up space intentionally. Next, you’ll participate in a small-group dance lesson led in a supportive, low-pressure environment. No dance experience is needed. The focus is not on performance or perfection, but on expression, curiosity, and allowing yourself to move with confidence as you are. We’ll close with a reflective group discussion, exploring what emerged during the experience and how these insights can be applied beyond the studio—how you inhabit your body, how you carry yourself, and how you show up in everyday life. **What to know:** * Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you feel good moving in * No dance experience required * Light snacks and beverages will be provided This session is for anyone interested in deepening their relationship with confidence by listening to their body, expanding their capacity for self-expression, and practicing self-love as an embodied experience. **Featured Speaker: Mary Grace** Mary Grace, the dynamic force behind MG Choreography & Boutique, has been transforming special occasions with her unique blend of artistry and passion for over seven years. As a proud Latina, with Venezuelan and Mexican heritage, Mary brings a rich cultural perspective to every choreography she creates. Her dedication to dance is matched only by her commitment to empowering others through the joy and elegance of movement. Mary’s journey began with a simple passion for dancing, which quickly grew into a thriving business. She specializes in crafting personalized choreography for weddings, quinceañeras, and sweet sixteens, ensuring each event is unforgettable. Determined to make a significant impact in Ohio, Mary established the first-of-its-kind brick-and-mortar location that not only offers a space to practice these beautiful dances but also provides a boutique experience for purchasing or renting exquisite dresses and tuxedos for these special moments. Mary Grace is more than just a business owner; she is a trailblazer for Latina women in the community, dedicated to bringing elegance, joy, and a touch of her vibrant heritage to every event she touches. **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

For January, we’re reading Migrations by Charlotte McConaghy. For fans of Flight Behavior and Station Eleven, a novel set on the brink of catastrophe, as a young woman chases the world's last birds--and her own final chance for redemption. Franny Stone has always been a wanderer. By following the ocean's tides and the birds that soar above, she can forget the losses that have haunted her life. But when the wild she loves begins to disappear, Franny can no longer wander without a destination. She arrives in remote Greenland with one purpose: to find the world's last flock of Arctic terns and track their final migration. She convinces Ennis Malone, captain of the Saghani, to take her onboard, winning over his eccentric crew with promises that the birds will lead them to fish. As the Saghani fights its way south, Franny's dark history begins to unspool. Battered by night terrors, accumulating a pile of unsent letters, and obsessed with pursuing the terns at any cost, Franny is full of secrets. When her quest threatens the safety of the entire crew, Franny must ask herself what she is really running toward--and running from. Propelled by a narrator as fierce and fragile as the terns she is following, Charlotte McConaghy's Migrations is both an ode to our threatened world and a breathtaking page-turner about the lengths we will go for the people we love.

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!

**TRY AN OLYMPIC SPORT IN A FUN, BEGINNER-FOCUSED CLINIC!** Enjoy 15 minutes of off-ice basics, 50 minutes learning to sweep and deliver stones, then play a couple of ends with your group. Afterward, join us in the warm room for broomstacking (socializing) with your teammates and opponents. Limited spots available. **What to wear:** Clean rubber soled tennis shoes (required), loose/stretchy clothing (no jeans), and warm layers - ice ranges 32-40 degrees F. ***\*\*\*\*\*Ski Club Membership required for this event!\*\*\*\*\**** [Home - Columbus Ski Club](https://www.columbusskiclub.org/) Once membership is established - follow below link to sign up for Curling: [Curling Clinic - Begin to Curl - Calendar - Columbus Ski Club](https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=4091&club_id=686961&item_id=2793520)