If you'd like to make it, please ring yourself up at the ticket link. We no longer accept RSVPs. Everyone has to physically buy a ticket. We limit tickets so that we can plan accordingly, purchase the right amount of food, and allocate plenty of time per artist. Because of this, we can not accept walk-ups to our song circles. You'll know if seats are available when you ring yourself up at the ticket link.
We have two types of song circles. One circle is open for both cover songs and originals, and the other is for songwriters who play original music only. This ticket link is marked accordingly. Thank you, and we hope to see you.
OYOU Song Circles are suitable for ages 12 and up. Minors can participate if their parents or legal guardians accompany them. Please note that we're all about the music, so we don't have space for spectators. Sometimes, we make exceptions (please email us for information).
These events are inclusive, and we celebrate all skill levels. Some folks like to jam and practice solos, while others just want to sing. Our songbooks are chock-full of cover tunes to choose from. No one has to sing solo, unless they want to. We usually all just sing together — unabashedly loud. That said, original songs are welcome, too. We also have hand drums, various instruments, and amps ready for musical exploration.
Some of our song circles feature original music only. Songwriters play complete songs, work through half-written songs, get valuable feedback, and hone their songwriting chops and performance skills. Some folks that attend have yet to complete a song, and some are full-time touring singer-songwriters: All are welcome.
Our song circles are a judgment-free zone, making them a safe space to practice, experiment, and grow as a musician.
When people work together to support, network, and enjoy the song circle, these music gatherings can uplift the human spirit for days. Let's all do our part to make the experience uplifting for everyone! Please review the following information prior to attending an OYOU song circle.
1. The music will go around in a circle, and each person will take a turn leading a song. The group leader will help move the circle along. Please do not start a song ahead of the group leader.
2. When it comes to your turn, do an original song or a cover tune. We have a songbook of popular cover tunes and we all sing along on them. If it's a song circle for original music only, please try to stick to your original material.
3. When not leading a song, your involvement on both original and cover songs should not overshadow the person performing their song choice. If the song leader wants you to take a solo break, they will “nod you in” at the appropriate time.
4. Please keep your intro within reason. Rule of thumb: if the intro is longer than the song, it is too long.
5. If you have a new song to share, and want the group to help, please refrain from spending too much time attempting to teach your new song to the group. Group participation works best when it’s kept simple. It's not the format to teach parts, teach verses, try to incorporate multiple harmony parts ect,. again please just keep it simple.
6. If you have a cover song you'd like someone else to sing, it's important that you send the song into Team OYOU in advance, so we are able to learn the piece or pass it onto to someone else to lead it.
7. We have limited time and seating space for song circles. If you attend our song circle, please participate by taking your turn and listening to others as they take theirs. Keep discussions to a minimum, to allow time for everyone to get a turn.
8. Talking while someone's playing, or using your cell phone, is disrespectful in song circles.
9. Please refrain from using your cell phone unless you are taking photos or video specific to our song circle.
10. And most important, you matter. Having you with us is a gift.
These song circles are for improving musicianship and embracing the opportunity to play music. When we follow these guidelines, the OYOU can host its song circles in a professional manner conducive for artistic and personal growth.