Have you always wanted to sing but were told that you can't carry a tune? Or do you already like to sing but aren't interested in performing? We have a group for you. Shasta Martinuk and Brian Hoover (Village RhythmKeepers) are pleased to announce that on Sunday, January 29, we are launching the Island Village SongCircle, a weekly gathering for the purpose of sharing easy-to-learn and fun-to-sing music from many different cultures and traditions. All adults and older youth are invited to join. No musical or vocal experience required, in fact, new and scared singers are especially welcome!
This song circle is based on the principles of the Ubuntu Choir Network, founded by Shivon Robinsong and Denis Donnelly, co-leaders of Victoria's 340-voice Gettin' Higher Choir. Ubuntu is a Zulu word meaning: I am because we are. On the ubuntuchoirs.net website, ubuntu is described as being "about empathy and compassion for others, building community, appreciating diversity and knowing that our highest potential is ripened through our relationships. New kinds of choirs are springing up in many corners of the world, embodying the principles of ubuntu. And so we call this emerging network of singing communities the Ubuntu Choirs Network." Shasta recently completed the Community Choir Leadership Training program with Denis and Shivon, and is excited to offer an opportunity for ubuntu-style singing on Bowen.
We will meet Sundays from 7to 9 p.m. at Bowen Court from January 29 to April 22. Come at no cost for the first two weeks to check it out. If you decide to sign up, the fee is on a sliding scale from $75 to $150 for the 12-week session. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Bowen Court. Bursaries are available if you need financial assistance. Call Shasta or Brian at 604-947-2283 for more information, or email [email protected].
SHASTA MARTINIUK
ISLAND VILLAGE SONGCIRCLE
