A Weekly Sanctuary of Song!
Do you love to sing?
Would you like to develop your confidence as a singer?
Do you yearn for a greater sense of connection?
If so, then come join us for Mothersong Chorus!
Mothersong Chorus is a weekly singing gathering, led by Noe Venable. We sing in honor of the Great Mother – the feminine principle in the world, and to give voice to the song of the earth in these times of great change. Our repertoire draws on folk singing traditions from around the world.
We warmly welcome women and children, transwomen, non-binary and queer folks, and people of color. We are committed to being a singing sanctuary for all who would like to tap into, and help to midwife, the rising power of the feminine in these times.
Some of the traditions we explore are hypnotic sacred rounds and chants, world folk songs with easy to learn three part harmonies, and uplifting modern circle songs.
We also dip our toes into group improvisation – don’t worry – I make improvisation accessible and fun even for beginners.
We are a singing group, a talking and listening group, a place to get closer to spirit together. You don’t need know how to read music — songs are taught the old-fashioned way, by ear. Nor do you need to be a confident singer. Together, we create a safe space for singers at all levels of comfort and ability.
Our season ends with a sharing for friends and family. However, this is not primarily a performance-oriented group, and our meetings are not rehearsals. Mothersong Chorus is a place to take refuge in community and find strength in the uplift of shared song.
Our Approach
As a leader, I strive to foster natural singing. When we sing in this way, we are “in the flow”. Song seems to pour through us out into the world. It’s a mystical experience, a loss of self. When we experience it, we feel joy and release.
All of us have the potential to experience singing in this way. As a long time professional singer-songwriter and teacher, I’ve observed that usually, the main barrier to natural singing is tension in the body. The root causes of this tension are rarely physical– often, it is rooted in our thinking.
In this group, toning exercises help us overcome negative thought patterns so song can flow through us, pure and unobstructed. A supportive group culture helps us feel safe enough to bring our whole, authentic selves. What we bring is enough, and this group is a place to celebrate that.
Talking and Listening
Each Mothersong meeting also includes a brief period of small group discussion, using a format called World Cafe. In this framework, we take turns talking and practicing active listening. Everyone has a chance to speak and be heard. Each time, we learn a little more about each other, so that we can honor not only our voices, but also our truths.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to be a mother to join this group?
A: No, our group is open to ALL persons whose identity includes some identification with the feminine including transwomen, queer and non binary folks. (And we love men and the masculine, too! We just also believe, given centuries of oppression of the feminine, in the value of spaces that are specifically oriented towards honoring this dimension of experience.)
Q: Do I need to commit to the entire session?
A: Yes. This level of commitment helps us establish a warmly supportive culture where everyone feels safe.
Q: Can I try the group before I commit?
A: Yes. You are welcome to attend one meeting to try it out for free.
Q: Are auditions required for this group?
A: No. We are open to singers at all levels of comfort and ability.
Q: Can I join you after the season starts?
A: You may definitely join us any time in the first month and a half. You may also join us later in the season, with the permission of the director.
Q: Can I bring my child?
A: Yes. Children are welcome in our circle. However, for some children it works better than others. I encourage you to try it out and see how it feels. Note that if you have a child who is 0 – 5, I also offer a music class that is child-focused. You can learn more about it here.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Payment
Financial contribution is approximately $20 per 90 minute meeting, payable in one lump sum, or in monthly payments, as you prefer.
Additionally, we have scholarships available for those in need. ❤️
Our Schedule
Fall Season runs September through December.
Details coming soon!
We meet on Sunday afternoons, 3:30 – 5PM at a serene home overlooking the sea in Pacifica, California.
About the Director
Noe Venable is a singer and holistic music educator. As a singer-songwriter, Noe has released six albums of original music, which have earned her a loyal following throughout the world. Noe’s songs have appeared in film, and Noe has toured nationally with some of the greats, including Ani DiFranco.
As a teacher, Noe’s approach is grounded in the belief that everyone is musical. Her classes provide a safe space for beginners and experienced singers alike to explore the joy of making music together. Noe teaches people of all ages. For little ones, Noe leads Noe’s Garden Music Class, a nature inspired music class that children attend with a caregiver. For women and girls, she leads the intergenerational weekly singing circle, Mothersong Chorus.
Noe holds a masters degree from Harvard Divinity School, and a Waldorf teaching certificate from Antioch, New England. Noe’s work is grounded in her spiritual practice, which she continues to deepen through ongoing study with Isa Gucciardi of The Sacred Stream.
