Spirit Jam

*a group vocal improv workshop for healing & transformation

*Mondays & Thursdays in Chicago during May ‘24

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Leah’s signature workshop. Spirit Jam is a container for group vocal improv singing. It’s an opportunity to join our Spirits together with song/breath and experience connection, healing & transformation with the whole body.

The name comes from the mystical connection between breath and the spirit. In Hebrew, the word for spirit/soul is נְשָׁמָה (N’shama). The word for breath is נְשִׁימָה (N’sheema). They share the same root. In Sanskrit, the word for breath and Spirit is प्राण (Prana). I’ve read that the connection between Spirit & Breath is also prominent in other languages.

Spirit Jam combines Leah’s experience as a vocalist, music educator, theatrical improviser and spiritual leader. She divides the offering into two parts. The first half of the evening is a facilitated learning/exploration/play. The second half is a group vocal improv based on the vocal technique and musical concept explorations during the first half of the workshop.

Holistic Music Lessons

Utilizing songwriting and improvisation to teach voice and instrumental accompaniment skills, all with an emphasis on developing a relationship with Creativity & developing the Imagination.

  • Students will learn techniques for singing without tension. They will be mentored in developing a spiritual practice of listening and presence with their instrument, “playing” from day one through improvisation and writing. We will explore the emotional landscape of sound and follow the stories that arise to write songs. We will also explore cover songs as guides to expand the musical toolkit.

  • Our creativity defines the boundaries of our imagination. And, the boundaries of our imagination define what is possible. I believe that the duality of our world that has caused so much harm is a result of lack of imagination. Here are the dualities I’ve talking about - a two party political system, lack of solutions for violence in the Middle East, defining people in two genders, having a “conventional” vs a “non-conventional” lifestyle.

    When I teach music, I am really teaching creativity and the practice of imagination.

    Another reason why studying music holistically is important is because singing can literally help you stay healthy and regulate you nervous system. Singing helps with breathing and keeping the diaphragm toned and open. Creating songs helps you process the ways that life is impacting you. Creativity is a response to life. We need to be creative, that is our nature as human beings.

  • Lessons are 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Lessons can be once a week, twice a month or once a month. It is recommended that new students have lessons once a week.

  • 1 hour in-person and Zoom lessons are sold in packs of 4 for $222.

    The first lesson is $36.

    In-person lessons are available at my home studio in Roger’s Park, Chicago.