Join us for a transformative program to reawaken the ancient tradition of singing in community. Led by renowned facilitators Heather Houston and Maggie Wheeler, and accompanied by percussionist Diana Lynn, we will immerse ourselves in the oral tradition of call and response, teaching songs of joy and healing that are accessible to all skill levels. Through the creation of harmonies and rhythms, participants will be inspired, energized, and connected to one another. Singing together in this way creates a powerful co-operative experience that fosters a true sense of inter-connectedness and joy.
Expect to be surprised by your own abilities, to experience a deep sense of satisfaction and joy, and to be moved by the beauty of music. Our goal is to not only expand your vocabulary of song, but to reawaken the healing power of using your own voice. From chants and spirituals to songs of protest and original music, we will explore the vibrational power of song throughout history. By the end of the program, participants will have a new found access to the music within and a renewed sense of permission to create their own songs. Join us in this vocal journey, where healing, courage, and deep connections are possible when we join our voices in a shared communal experience.
Offered as 2 satsangs and 3 workshops (subject to change).
The presentations associated with this Yoga Vacation Program begin with an 8pm satsang on the first day of the program and conclude with a 90-minute noon workshop on the last day of the program. Click here to read more about the Yoga Vacation Program details and view the ashram schedule for yoga classes and meals during your stay. We suggest you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your program for the optimal experience.
Maggie Wheeler is best known in the U.S and internationally for her work as an actress in film, television and voice-over and most notably as the character of Janice on NBC’s hit series Friends.
Maggie is a passionate singer, songwriter, choir director and workshop facilitator. She has been teaching her vocal workshop for over 30 years at retreat centers, universities, communities and schools to provide the experience of creating interpersonal harmony and internal harmony through the powerful act of creating vocal harmony.
Maggie directed the 100-voice Golden Bridge Community Choir in Hollywood for 17 years and during recent years continued the Golden Bridge Choir online producing virtual concerts and videos as well as hosting the weekly online community gathering, “Together In Song”,
bringing together over 4000 people from around the world to join in the healing power of singing. It is her belief that through the creation of song, harmony and rhythm communities are formed and participants become inspired, energized and connected to one another.
Santa Cruz Californian, Heather Houston, inspires healing, empowerment, and the
weaving of strong, loving communities through the power of singing! She is a
community choir directing virtuoso and vocal coach extraordinaire with over 30-years experience writing and producing music, leading song circles, and offering life transforming events at venues like Esalen and 1440 Multiversity. In these trying times, Heather continues to spread her magic through her multiple offerings – Sisters in Harmony Retreats, The Art of Mindful Singing, Singing as Sanctuary, Song and Chant Leader Trainings, and her Sisters in Harmony Global drop-in series with guest artists and song leaders. Her recorded music can be found on all of the streaming platforms.
Diana Lynn Lynn is a singer songwriter and percussionist based in Los
Angeles. Growing up the daughter of a preacher, she has strong roots in
gospel and choir however she draws inspiration from world rhythms and indigenous music. She plays a variety of percussion instruments from around the world and facilitates drum circles for young and old taking them on a journey of communal rhythm and song. Diana brings a commitment to further raising the strength and emotional well- being of the communities she serves by sharing her passion for drumming in numerous community settings.
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