Singing Circles
“My Heart Sings” singing circles
Some theories of human evolution suggest that our ancestors sang together before they learnt to talk. Music can connect us at a deeper level than words. Inspired by the orcas, who sing to each other, I love bringing people together in a circle to sing. I lead simple songs, from all around the world, mostly by ear. Songs with feeling. Songs with joyful harmonies or fun rhythms or meaningful lyrics.
Since 2008, I’ve led ‘My Heart Sings’ circles and brought joy to many different places; local community centres, mental health groups, prisons, offices, hospitals, immigration detention centres, huge conferences, weddings and funerals. I also ran singing groups for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder and other serious breathing problems, as singing together can help improve lung function and improve mental health.
I nurtured a “My Heart Sings’ community singing circle in central London for five years. We welcomed women and children from all different backgrounds for a weekly sing and shared meal. We sang loudly at protests, organised parties and flashmobs to spread our joy across London. We carefully discussed conflict that arose between us on topics such as racism, homophobia and gender identity. ‘Every Tuesday night we experience a taste of the world I want to create’ said one singer.
The My Heart Sings model I’ve developed aims to help people meet the present moment, their body and each other with gentleness and courage. I adapt breathing, gentle yoga movement and voice exercises and choose songs which are joyful, soothing and empowering. I also support singers to express themselves by sharing songs which are meaningful for them. I particularly work with groups of people whose voices are usually marginalised. I work continuously to learn and to make my approach decolonial and trauma-informed. Every event is accessible to people without any experience of group singing. Please contact me if you would like to hire me to lead a singing workshop for your organisation or group.
Testimonial
“My Heart Sings” literally says what it means. It wasn’t only my heart, but my body, mind and spirit were all singing and vibrating on a higher frequency during and after the magical session’
-–Michelle Springer-Benjamin, Training Manager, Women and Girls Network, after a self-care session for staff and volunteers