Song Circle for Refugee Aid
"By the end of April 2025, more than 122 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide as a result of persecution, conflict, violence or human rights violations."~ https://www.unrefugees.org/refugee-facts/statistics/
Singing is a way of healing, and singing with others while accompanied
by a celtic harp is a beautiful way to enjoy stories and songs together.
A celtic song circle with Amy includes singing many songs from a celtic background, but no previous knowledge of them is required, and no singing experience is necessary. Lyrics are provided, and all are welcome! Any songs you don't know you will learn easily by ear and be able to sing with everyone (all songs are in English, and lyrics are provided). Because celtic peoples immigrated to Canada, the songs tell stories of enjoyment and of struggles at home, and also of leaving, for unless we are members of a First Nation, the rest of us and our ancestors are immigrants and settlers. While often interesting historically, the songs have themes that are generally universal ~ about love and loss and living ~ themes common to all peoples.
"When I sing, trouble can sit right on my shoulder and I don't even notice." ~ Sarah Vaughan
* Admission for the Song Circle is by donation and all proceeds from a Celtic Song Circle are donated to local refugee support program Safe Haven (link below). Let Amy know if you'd like to find out more about when Song Circles happen.
Penny Whistle Workshop / Group Lessons
For those who would like to start learning the basics of Irish penny whistle. Simple Celtic tunes, ornaments and breathing and finger techniques will be covered. The penny whistle is affordable and easy to carry with you, but its a bit trickier to play than it looks. Amy will help you master some of the skills you'll need to truly enjoy this sweetest of instruments. Music provided ahead of time if requested, and provided at the workshop on the day. Amy can also provide a whistle if requested ahead of time.
Let Amy know if you'd like to join in or organize a few friends for a workshop.
Slow Session
Excellent for novice/intermediate players - you're not a pro yet, but you'd love to play in a session with other players. The tunes will be played at slower speeds, and you'll be allowed to use music if you like (but of course you are encouraged to learn off by heart!). Especially airs, waltzes, polkas and jigs - with a couple of slow reels and hornpipes. Build your Irish repertoire while learning in a no-stress atmosphere. Popular tunes will be chosen from Amy's list of popular session tunes and sent ahead of time to listen to, and so no one is sight-reading at the session.
Instruments for a session include: fiddles, accordions, penny whistles, flutes, uillean pipes & acoustic guitar. Players of all ages and abilities are welcome. (Approximately 2 hours, min. 4 participants to run)
Let Amy know if you'd like to join in or organize a few friends for a workshop..
Instruments for a session include: fiddles, accordions, penny whistles, flutes, uillean pipes & acoustic guitar. Players of all ages and abilities are welcome. (Approximately 2 hours, min. 4 participants to run)
Let Amy know if you'd like to join in or organize a few friends for a workshop..