We are a community based, improvisational singing gathering for anyone and everyone who loves to sing.
Guided by the principles of improvisation championed by luminaries like Bobby McFerrin and Rhiannon, you will be expertly led through a series of engaging games and exercises designed to deepen your connection with both yourself and the collective. Once the group is warmed up, the magic of circle singing will unfold, sparking spontaneous and delightful songs and harmonies.
You don’t have to be “good at singing” to join us.
We are welcoming to both skillful and beginning singers alike. No matter your talent, skill or ability you will walk away feeling alive and more deeply connected to yourself and others.
Join us each month in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood where we create spontaneous music using just our voices!
Upcoming Gatherings
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May
May 8, 7 - 8:30pm
Grace Place, 637 South Dearborn
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June
June 12, 7 - 8:30pm
Grace lace 637 South Dearborn
Davin Youngs
Singer, sound healing artist and voice coach, Davin Youngs founded Chicago Circle Singing in 2015 (watch the origin video). While throughout the years, the gathering has taken on different shapes and forms (with a pandemic long hiatus,) he is thrilled to see this community blossoming now, more than ever.
Davin is also the creator of VOXUS, an experience that bring teams, corporate professional and executives into the transformative experience of improvisational singing. He has had the privilege of bringing this work to Google, Coca-Cola, Chicago Public Schools, and the Federal Reserve Bank.
The RESET is Davin’s signature immersive sound healing experience that centers his voice, utilizing improvisational singing through looping devices in concert with sound healing instruments. Davin has brought The RESET to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Nashville Symphony Orchestra, Ravinia and the roof of Ace Hotel.
Finally, Davin maintains a vibrant voice coaching practice which focuses on the voice as a tool for healing and transformation. At the crossroads of voice lessons and life coaching, Davin is passionate about helping others use their voice as a tool for change. He captures this weekly in his highly acclaimed podcast, Free Your Voice, Free Your Life.
For Davin, Circle Singing is first and foremost about community. Understanding singing for what it does best, connecting people more deeply to themselves and each other.
Follow Davin on Instagram @davinyoungs
Meet Your Song Leaders
Emmy Bean
Emmy Bean is a singer, mover and performer. Her interdisciplinary work combines improvisation, conversation, folk tunes, narrative wandering, poetic inquiry, political awareness and embodied expression.
She writes songs and performs with the trio 80 Foots, the Monthly Music Club, and Escargatoire, and has collaborated with Stacy Rene Erenberg, Ami Saraiya, Jace William, Erica Mott, Opera-Matic, Ronnie Kuller, Theater Oobleck, the Neo-Futurists, John Szymanski, Beyond This Point, and Facility Theater.
Her solo show, You’re His Child has been seen at the Pivot Arts Festival and Rhino Fest in Chicago. She holds a masters degree in Interdisciplinary Art from Columbia College Chicago.
Stacy Rene Erenberg
Stacy Rene Erenberg is passionate about singing, a passion she's nurtured since she first learned to talk. For her, vocal expression through music is akin to a spiritual experience. Since her debut in 2006 as the frontwoman of the 10-piece Neo-Soul band Vertikal, she has graced the stages of iconic Chicago venues including The Jazz Showcase, The Metro, and Park West. Stacy's musical style seamlessly blends improvisational and traditional genres, showcasing her sultry vocals and offering an innovative take on Jazz, Blues, and Folkloric music.
Currently, Stacy is pursuing a music education program at Chicago State University, deepening her understanding and mastery of music. Notably, she recently completed a two-week residency in Montreal, studying and performing vocal improvisation and movement under the guidance of world-renowned improvisers Rhiannon and Margie Gillis.
Furthermore, as a trained Somatic Voice Work Practitioner, Stacy delves into the connections between sound, vibration, breath, and their profound impact on the human spirit. Her journey is one of continuous exploration and growth, both as a vocalist and as a student of the transformative power of music.
Follow Stacy on Instagram @erenbergstacy
Jake Rosner
Jake is a singer, beatboxer, looper, and lover of all weird and authentic sounds. With a background in teaching beatbox and vocal percussion in Chicago, he has also collaborated with improvisers both locally and internationally, including performances in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Jake's passion lies in cultivating a vibrant community of vocal explorers in Chicago, encouraging them to embrace new and unpolished vocal expressions through circle singing. For him, improvised singing serves as a gateway to reconnecting with music as pure play, rather than a mere skill to refine.
Outside of the studio and stage, you'll often find Jake lending his voice to various picket lines across Chicago's hospitality industry, advocating for workers' rights.
Follow Jake on Instagram @dj_to_the_a_k_e.
FAQ's
FAQ's
Where does Circle Singing happen?
We meet monthly at Grace Episcopal Church or “Grace Place” located at 637 South Dearborn in the South Loop, or Printer’s Row neighborhood of Chicago. We are not affiliated with Grace Place, but incredibly grateful to them for hosting us so generously.
Is parking available?
Paid parking is available on the street or in nearby lots. We are also in close proximity to the Red, Brown, Red, Purple, Orange and Green line CTA trains. It’s easy to get to us, no matter where you’re coming from!
I’m not very good at singing… will this be too hard for me?
No! Truly anyone at any skill level will find their way in easily. You’ll have to trust and give it a try to find out, but we are very confident that you’ll walk away feeling like you’ve been quite successful in your participation.
I’m an experienced musician… is it mostly beginners that attend?
No! You’ll be shocked a the diversity of talent and experience that shows up to each gathering. In fact, sometimes improvisation can be especially difficult for “trained musicians” as it requires a real freedom of spirit that can be tricky if you haven’t navigated it before in a space like this. Just come! Give it a try. We promise you’ll walk away deeply inspired.
How much does it cost to attend?
We ask a suggested donation of $10. You are welcome to give that much, more or less! Whatever will get you in the door, we want you there. All monies received are put back into maintaining our community through space rental, advertising and supplies. This is not a for-profit endeavor, but there are costs associated with each gathering and your donations are greatly appreciated.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothing. You will be moving your body as you are able.
Can I wear a mask?
Yes. You are welcome to do whatever it is that would make you most comfortable in attendance. If you’re sick… don’t come. Wait until our next gathering, but if you’re healthy and want to protect yourself from sickness by wearing a mask, we have them available at each gathering.
Do I have to RSVP?
No, but we REALLY like it if you do. This helps us plan accordingly for how many people will be in attendance.
Can I come late or leave early?
Well, first off, you’re not going to want to miss the beginning or the end of each gathering, but if you are running late or need to leave early… please come! We want your voice in the mix whatever way we can get it.
Can kids come?
This gathering is for adults and teens who are highly motivated to sing. It is not best suited for children.
Anything else?
Bring a bottle of water for yourself. It is important to stay hydrated while singing.
