Vocal Flow | Collaborative Vocal Improv

In Vocal Flow, we take a deeper dive into the waters of collaborative vocal improvisation and circlesinging in an intimate, small circle setting. This session is limited to 20 experienced singers ~ singers with solid musical skills who are seeking to deepen their relationship to improvisational flow, connect with new friends through musical play, and co-create vocal magic out of thin air. We will begin by crafting a space of trust and safety, of playfulness and discovery, of curiosity and vulnerability. Then, with our new friends by our side, we will take the leap and jump into singing games that explore:

• rhythm
• melody
• harmony
• movement
• song form
• duet
• small ensemble composition

These music games, inspired by Rhiannon’s Vocal River curriculum, the Musica do Circulo practice, Bobby McFerrin’s Circle Song School, and our own improvisational ideations, give us the tools to craft spontaneous compositions that center deep listening, trust, flow, and self-surprise. Together, we will ask ourselves, “How can I listen more deeply to my inner creativity, to my singing partners, and to the music itself? What does the music want in this moment, and how might I serve the music?”

What a joy, to dip our toes into the flow of collaborative vocal improvisation. Come on in, the water’s fine!

Limited to 20 people.

What does “experienced” mean?

We would say this session is for singers that are confident holding their own part, who are comfortable holding rhythm and harmony, and who are willing to be brave and let themselves be heard and seen in their improvisational exploration. If you’re willing to be brave and want to grow, then this circle is for you! And, as always, this session is a judgment-free zone where mistakes are welcomed and encouraged. No need for perfection here. Just a space to play.

WHO IS LEADING THIS CIRCLESINGING SESSION?

This session will be facilitated by our amazing Founder and Artistic Director, Matt Goldstein.

Matt Goldstein (he/him) is an award-winning vocal arranger, music educator, singer/songwriter, and facilitator who cultivates community through collaborative creation. He has enjoyed a vibrant career as a professional in the a cappella world, performing with and music directing for The Vassar Devils and Hyannis Sound, and composing award-winning vocal arrangements for over 80 ensembles around the world. He has taught workshops & courses in circle singing, vocal improvisation, ensembleship, and arranging at programs and schools across the country, including A Cappella Academy, NACC, and V.I.P. (Vocal Intensive Program). He now teaches private coachings and lessons for creative flow, improvisation, and vocal arranging, directs a community pop/rock choir called Rock Voices, and pours so much love & creative energy into… you guessed it…. Gaia Music Collective!

COVID VACCINATION & BOOSTER RECOMMENDED (but masks not required)

CANCELLATION POLICY

We want as many people to be able to experience these gatherings as possible, and since capacity is limited, each spot is precious! If you RSVP but are no longer able to come, please let us know at least 24 hours before the event so that we may offer your spot to someone else. Tickets are non-transferable, as we need to be able to gather enough funds to rent the spaces and pay our lovely facilitator.

For more info, contact us at [email protected].

MEDIA CONSENT

Because we want to share what we’re up to with people who can’t join us in person, there may be photographers and videographers present — by attending, you consent to being a part of that media, some of which may be posted online! Please email us with any questions or concerns at [email protected]

PHYSICAL ACCESSIBILITY:

• 2 step walk up to lobby.
• Elevator available to the 3rd floor (reserved for those with physical disabilities).
• Seating available (narrow benches with no backs).
• Bathroom is not wheelchair accessible.
• Venue prefers shoes to be removed upon entering.

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GAIA MUSIC COLLECTIVE MISSION

Gaia Music Collective is a creative community based in Brooklyn, NYC. Our mission is to create connective, playful, accessible spaces for collaborative music-making. Spaces where we can seek expression, growth, freedom, & release in our music. Spaces where we can explore the healing potential of collective music-making and improvisation. Spaces where folks feel safe to express themselves free of judgment or expectation, and to make new friends as our weird, beautiful, authentic selves.

All are welcome in this community. Gaia celebrates humans of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientations, classes, religions, abilities, national origins, languages, and musical experiences. All we ask is that you bring an open mind, a desire to connect, and a willingness to leave judgment of self & others at the door.

Here at Gaia, we believe that music-making - and making that music in community & collaboration with other people - is a fundamental human practice, and this project seeks to build space for that in a day and age when it can so often be hard to find.

Gaia Music Collective seeks to break down divisions between performer & audience and craft experiences where we are ALL part of the music-making. We hope to offer a network & platform for local artists & creatives to connect with other artists, activate their creativity through play and collaboration, and engage their art with other musical minds.

In short - we're here to sing, to play, to connect, to grow, and to have a good time!

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Host or Publisher Gaia Music Collective