Jun 13-15, 2008
An Invitation from Paul Winter for Beginners, Amateurs, & Professionals
I’m committed to exploring a way of life that’s continually nourished and transformed by sound-play, and I invite you to join me in these explorations. It’s accessible to those with no musical background at all to the most highly trained professional. Sound-making is as natural as breathing – it’s our birthright.
“Our sound-play is done collectively, in small groups of diverse combinations of instruments. If you can make one sound, on any instrument, you can be part of making free sound-textures, which are the essence of this ‘field of play,’ in a kind of musical volleyball that’s totally engaging for those playing and those listening.
“We soon realize these sound-collages have a natural beauty. We venture into the unknown together and find there’s really nothing to fear. The process is full of discovery, joy, humor, and fun. We rediscover what we loved as children: being spontaneous together. This isn’t a `master class’; it’s a place to awaken and nurture our instincts for spontaneous and authentic expression. All your life you’ve responded spontaneously to others in conversation. We simply use this highly developed ability in sound-play — together, rather than one at a time.
“The experience of making music and of communing with others, and with the Earth, can be one of the most deeply satisfying rewards of human life. My intent is that the process be welcoming and gratifying for the shyest individuals, while at the same time offering new adventures for those who have musical experience. Typically we have a great diversity of participants from beginners to educators to professional musicians. Having two young daughters, I’m also fascinated with how we can get sound-play into the lives of our children.
“We ask you to bring an instrument (or a few), whether you can play it or not, along with the ultimate instrument, your voice. I’m continually amazed at the revelations and the echoes of possibilities that people experience in these sound-play adventures. I’m fascinated by the process of discovering the wisdoms we already have, deep in our being, that are awakened by the resonances of vibrations from our sound-making and deep listening.
“Expression can be the gateway to a fulfilling life, an adventure in aliveness. It is about weaving whole the puzzle of your life, hopefully catching glimpses of the ‘song’ of your unique life-journey. Between our rounds of sound-play, we will discuss the impressions, discoveries, and quandaries that arise from our sound-making and listening experiences. We’ll also touch on exercise, breathing, diet, daily rituals, relationships, the story of the universe, and the question of how we find livelihoods that come from and celebrate our deepest song.”
This playground costs an additional $20 and will take place in our chapel, which has excellent acoustics.
Paul Winter’s musical realm has long embraced the traditions of many cultures, interweaving a great diversity of instruments with voices of whales, wolves, eagles, and members of what he refers to as “the greater symphony of Earth.“ Paul’s 40-year musical odyssey has taken him to the concert halls of 37 countries and on recording expeditions to wilderness areas on six continents. He’s played his music in the Grand Canyon, the White House, Siberia’s Lake Baikal, and New York’s Cathedral of St. John the Divine, where he and his Consort colleagues have been artists-in-residence since 1980. Among his 35 albums, 5 have won Grammys and 13 have received Grammy nominations. Beyond these accomplishments, Paul is an extraordinarily kind and loving being. Find out more at www.livingmusic.com