circle singing
Circle singing is an improvised type of community singing, where the leader divides the group into smaller sections, comes up with vocal motifs for each section on the spot and in that way creates organic vocal arrangements that never sound the same.
My experience with circle singing began at The Academy of Music in Gdansk, where I studied choir conducting and jazz vocal performance. I wrote a master thesis about Bobby McFerrin, a genius artist, who is a huge propagator of the circle singing concept.
I have since practised circle singing with many groups, choirs and audiences.
workshops
The workshops that I am offering can, but don’t have to include elements of collective improvisation.
We can either focus only on singing together or/and also on learning how to become a leader of a circle song.
The leader’s role is to set the stage for the collective creativity, ensuring that participants can follow the musical path while still adding their unique voices to the ever-evolving piece.
I am offering workshops tailored for the specific needs of your group, regarding duration, frequency and amount of improvisation included.
- groups of complete beginners
- groups that are open to try improvisation
- groups that want to create circle song together
- groups with individuals that would like to learn more about how to become a leader of your own circle song
- * extra: audiences during a concert
- Circle singing, where I am the leader on inventing the motives. It includes only singing, no improvisation (15-120 minutes)
- Extended version, where I am still the leader, but some individuals try to improvise on top of the invented song (15-120 minutes)
- We create circle song together, where everyone can come up with a motive (30-120 minutes)
- I teach you step by step how to make your own circle song and become the leader (60-120 minutes)
- *extra: I show up at a concert and conduct circle singing for an audience (5-10 minutes)
CircleSong is an improvised, multi-voice musical piece, based on repetitive sound motifs, which – without limitations of conventions of style and form – draws inspiration from various traditions: classical, ethnic, pop music.
It is spontaneous music of the moment which, depending on the inventiveness of the leader, may develop in an unpredictable direction and take unexpected forms. This dynamic process encourages participants to tap into their creativity, connect with others, and explore the depths of their vocal expression.
What is the difference between CircleSong and a regular music piece?
The difference between CircleSong and a piece performed from a score can be compared to the difference between a free conversation and a role-playing dialogue. The simple rules of creating CircleSong conceal enormous potential for the participants’ musical development: performance discipline, vocal skills and creativity.
In one moment, a group of individualists becomes an unified group, connected by the bonds of musical rhythm, harmony and common action. Performers abandon the role of imitators of musical notation and become co-creators of the resulting musical work.
Key principle 1: Inclusivity and Accessibility
Circle singing workshops welcome individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and singing abilities. There is no need for prior musical experience, as the focus is on collective participation and individual growth.
Key principle 2: Spontaneity
Participants are encouraged to embrace the present moment, allowing their voices to flow naturally without preconceived notions or expectations. This fosters a sense of freedom and spontaneity in musical expression.
Key principle 3: Collaberative creativity
The circle acts as a musical container, where each person contributes their voice, melodies, and rhythms to create a collective, ever-evolving sonic tapestry.
Key principle 4: Mind-body connection
Circle singing is not just about vocalisation but also about connecting the mind and body. It encourages participants to be present, centred, and in tune with their emotions and physical sensations.
CVR number: 44468441
contact@alravocals.dk
Guldbergsgade 4, 2. sal, 1
2200 København
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