Frequently Asked Questions
What are Song Circles?
All Song Circles have a designated facilitator. The facilitator usually brings a repertoire of songs that are familiar or easy to learn. As the singers learn each song they can begin to add harmonies and possibly add new verses.
Some Song Circles are organized as Round Robins. In a Round Robin each person has a chance to lead a song if they choose. Round Robin song circles usually have a particular theme.
A few song circles teach more complicated songs for those who want to go more in depth in a particular genre.
What happens at the Community Gatherings?
The Community Gatherings are a chance for us all to connect with one another and deepen our experience of being in community. The gatherings are lead by facilitators who have extensive experience in convening groups and fostering interpersonal connections. Our facilitation is relaxed, and always leaves a lot of room for personal choice. Connecting is never forced or overly orchestrated. In easy, fun ways we give each other a chance to be seen and heard.
Is there Work Exchange?
Yes. Please see the registration page for details.
Who are the Song Village Collaborators?
The overall organizers of Song Village are Sarah MacEwan and Tim Hartnett. But it takes many collaborators to bring Song Village into being. Collaborators help shape the gathering, set the tone, and spread the word. Most, but not all, collaborators lead Song Circles. We are open to proposals from skilled songleaders who would like to lead a song circle. Leading a song circle does not earn you you credit on the registration fee, but it is a fun way to be a part of the community. To propose a Song Circle, please fill out this form.
How are Song Circle Facilitators chosen?
Anyone can apply to facilitate a song circle. We expect to have multiple facilitators with a lot of experience leading and teaching songs. To be chosen as a facilitator you would need to demonstrate that you have a strong repertoire of songs you can lead, and a clear teaching style that can keep the group engaged and actively participating. It is also helpful to have solid skills with instrumental accompaniment, unless your genre is primarily acapella. Even if you do not lead a song circle, however, there will be multiple opportunities for you to teach or lead individual songs. To apply to be a song circle facilitator fill out this form.
Are there any cabins available?
There are no cabins at this site. So everyone will be in their own tent (or van). There are bath houses with flush toilets and showers.
Are children and teens welcome?
Yes, but we only have a minimal program for children. Teens and children are welcome to participate in Song Circles if they are mature enough to participate respectfully. If they become distracting to the group’s attention, we ask that they be quickly led away to a separate, engaging adventure.
Can I bring my pet? He’s really cute.
Sorry, no pets. No exceptions.
Where is the site?
Song Village will take place at a youth camp in the Santa Cruz mountains. We will send you directions after you register. Driving times from the bay area are: 90 minutes from SF or Berkeley/Oakland, 110 minutes for Marin county, 40 minutes from San Jose or Santa Cruz.
Can I get a discount for commuting?
Our preference is for everyone to stay on-site. This helps up develop a contained sense of community. But if you have a strong preference for driving home each night, we are not going to try to stop you. There is no discount, however, for people who exercise this option.
What if I can only come for the weekend?
If you have to work on Friday, you can join us Friday evening. Unfortunately, we have to pay the camp and caterer for you to stay three nights, even though you will only be staying two. So the price is the same. Maybe you could tell your boss how important this event is to you. If you can get here on Thursday you will miss the Friday traffic and be able to drop into the gathering more. But if you really can’t make it until Friday, we welcome you then.
Will there be amplified music?
No. All instrumentation will be acoustic, and at levels that support our voices, not overwhelming them.
What about drugs or alcohol?
Song Village is a mostly drug and alcohol free space. At this event we want everyone to stay tuned into each other and the music, not mind-altering substances. Discreet imbibing in the evenings is tolerated as long as you are able to stay consciously aware of your fellow singers and the group dynamics.
What if it rains?
Our gathering is mostly outdoors. Thus, in the possible but unlikely event of rain, the gathering may be cancelled. This is likely to be disappointing, but better than being cold and wet for three days. We have some fixed costs for the venue and caterer that we will not be able to recover if the event is cancelled due to rain. All registrants will thus receive a full refund, minus $50, if the event is cancelled due to rain. That way we will all share the risk.
