Thanks to one of our regular front desk volunteers at Jazz Fm , Jane I found out about this wonderful fun experience which happens bi-monthly at the Wychwood Barns. It's called Circle Collective and is led by the effervescent Nicole Andre or Niki as she is known.Isn't that a great enticement on the left? It's very true!!
It's also described as "mostly improvised, somes freestyle, always a capella".
There were about a dozen of us - most of us first timers with a range of ages and vocal experience - some admitted shower or even "stairwell" singers. Niki is a singer/songwriter who has studied with instructors from Berklee who in turn studied under the amazing Bobby McFerrin and were part of his original "Voicestra". If you've ever been to a Bobby McFerrin concert you know what an uplifting experience that can be!
We did some warm up and after determining our range were grouped with like individuals in a cozy circle. Niki started phrases and then gave each section their own phrase until we produced an amazing whole from interesting parts. Those who felt brave (not me this time) could step into the circle and "freestyle". I am not doing a great job on explaining it suffice to stay you have to come and experience this!
Niki said she realized after studying at Berklee that there wasn't anything like this going on in Toronto -so kudos to her for initiating this project.
Check out the website for upcoming collectives:
http://www.sheilluminatesit.com/circle/upcoming
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