MUSIC
SPIRIT WORKSHOPS
Velma
Frye offers a variety of programs which teach people how
vocal music can be used to heighten our awareness, and help
us connect with our bodies and our emotions, with the
natural world, and with the unique spirit in each of us.
You will learn firsthand how, by singing together, we
relax, we find our true voices, we express ourselves, we
have fun, we feel more alive, and we enjoy a greater sense
of community. No knowledge of music notation or any
professional experience is required, only a desire to
explore and sing. Always in a non-judgmental and
encouraging environment, workshops can be tailored to fit
almost any group or to focus on any special topic.
MUSIC
FOR THE RHYTHM OF LIFE
Songs for the hour, day, month, season, year, event
The
simple act of singing awakens us to the beauty of the
present moment. Honoring the time and the season deepens
our experience of the rhythm of the year and of life's
events. You will learn how rhythm, tempo, and melody in
music can bring meaning and fun to your daily life.
EDUCATIONAL
EVENTS
With
a Master's Degree in Music Education and 35 years'
experience, Velma teaches children's and adult choruses,
classical and popular piano, music theory, ear training,
and popular song arranging.
SACRED
SINGING CIRCLES
Songs From Around The World
This workshop teaches songs, rounds, and chants from
traditions around the world. Sacred songs can be slow and
contemplative or fast and inspiring, so singing this
repertoire expresses a broad range of feelings.
WOMENSPIRIT
CIRCLES
Songs
about life, love, and nature from the feminine perspective
To sing in a circle of women is sweet and powerful. We
recreate this ancient practice, sing our stories, and sing
our blessings for the world.
EXPLORING
OUR LIFE STORIES
Through Music, Meditation, and Free-Writing
Here one activity inspires the next. Breathwork, movement,
and singing open the body's energy centers, connecting us
with much to write about and/or contemplate in silence.
This individual focus followed by group singing balances
our inner and outer worlds and keeps the door open between
the two. Sacred and secular sources are used, as well as
Velma's original songs ("I'm Pulling Back In My Spirit," "I
Walk My Talk").
All workshops begin with brief physical and vocal warm-up
exercises, including breathing, stretching, toning, and
centering. Activities can include singing songs and rounds,
gentle movement and yoga, chanting, guided visualizations,
meditation, storytelling, free writing, and playing
percussion instruments.