Social Singing at The New Cross House

An open singalong is a relaxed and engaging musical gathering where everyone is encouraged to participate in singing, regardless of skill level. Key features of the concept include:

• Lyrics Provided – Lyrics are projected on a large screen, for everyone's convenience.
• Live or Recorded Music – Accompaniment can be from instrumentalists or backing tracks.
• No Solo Pressure – The focus is on group singing rather than individual performances, making it comfortable for those who may not wish to be singing alone.
• Varied Song Choices – The song selection includes well-known songs that are easy to follow, spanning genres such as pop, folk, holiday classics, and themed selections (e.g., musicals or decade-specific hits).
• Community Vibe – The event fosters a welcoming and social environment where people can connect through music, making it ideal for families, friends, and everyone looking to share a fun and uplifting experience.

Vocal improvisation and experimenting with free harmony means exploring melodies, rhythms, and harmonies in real time without strict rules. This can involve:

• Simple Harmonization – Singing a third or fifth above/below the melody.
• Reharmonization on the Spot – Changing underlying chords while keeping the melody.
• Harmonic Exploration – Moving harmonies independently (e.g., while the melody stays on one note, the harmony shifts chromatically).
• Call and Response – Practicing short harmonic echoes to a main vocal line.
• Counterpoint – Each voice moves in its own direction (contrary motion) rather than following the lead exactly.
• Scat Singing – Using nonsensical syllables (doo-bah, da-da, bop) to create spontaneous melodies.
• Drone Singing – Holding a single note while another voice moves melodically.
• Parallel Motion – Moving in the same direction as the melody but on a different scale degree.
• Layering Voices – Singing sustained notes while another voice moves freely.
• Triadic Harmony – Practicing major and minor triads as vocal harmony exercises.

A hobby singer is someone who enjoys singing as a leisure activity or pastime, rather than as a profession or career. They sing for the love of it, and for personal enjoyment and expression. Some key characteristics of a hobby singer include:

• Motivation – They sing primarily for fun, relaxation, and personal satisfaction.
• Time commitment – They dedicate their free time to singing, but it's not their main occupation.
• Skill level – Their skill level can vary widely, from beginners to those with more advanced training.
• Performance – They might sing in informal settings like karaoke nights, community choirs, or open mic nights. They might also record themselves or share their singing with friends and family.
• Financial aspect – They don't rely on singing for income, though they might occasionally perform for small fees or tips.

Here are some examples of how hobby singers engage with singing:

• Singing along to their favorite songs in the car or at home.
• Joining a community choir or singing group for social interaction and musical expression.
• Participating in karaoke nights for fun and entertainment.
• Taking singing lessons to improve their skills and technique.
• Recording covers of songs and sharing them online.
• Performing at local events or open mic nights.

Benefits of being a hobby singer:

• Stress relief and emotional expression – singing can be a great way to relax, unwind, and express emotions.
• Improved vocal skills and confidence – regular singing can strengthen vocal muscles and improve technique.
• Social connection – singing with others can create a sense of community and belonging.
• Creative outlet – singing allows for personal expression and creativity.
• Fun and enjoyment – singing is simply a joyful and fulfilling activity for many people.

"Working on vocal improvisation skills" means practicing and improving the ability to spontaneously create or modify melodies, harmonies, or lyrics while singing, without prior preparation or a set script. It involves enhancing creativity, flexibility, and confidence in free-form singing, often used in genres like jazz, gospel, and some pop or rock performances.