Musical Improv Drop-In: Sound-Play Circle

Discover the Power of Your Voice—Together

Sundays (bi-weekly) | 6:00–8:00pm | Just $20 | Adults Only (18+)

No experience required. Just show up and sing!

SIGN UP NOW! (limited spots)

Welcome to Leela’s Sound-Play Circle, A joyful, drop-in musical improv class where adults come together to co-create spontaneous music using nothing but the human voice.  You’ll explore:

• Improvised ensemble singing

• Call and response

• Add-a-part/change-a-part harmony building

• Body percussion and vocal rhythm circles

• Freestyle lyricism and vocal embodiment techniques

• Musical experimentation across styles and genres

Whether you’re classically trained, self-taught in the shower, a songwriter, educator, composer, or simply someone who loves to sing—Sound-Play invites you into a space where every voice has a place in the circle.

Why It Works: The Science and Art of Group Singing

Research consistently shows that group singing:

•  Boosts cognitive function and enhances musical memory

• Reduces stress and improves mood by lowering cortisol and releasing endorphins

• Builds vocal confidence, musical sensitivity, and rhythmic precision

• Strengthens social bonds and collective creativity

• Deepens artistic intuition and promotes holistic well-being

But beyond the research, Sound-Play is profoundly transformational. When people gather in community to sing—even briefly—they leave feeling more energized, clear, and connected to themselves and others.

What Makes Sound-Play Unique?

Sound-Play builds confidence and trust while nurturing creativity and deepening both individual and communal musical expression. The class offers rich opportunities for improvisation that might include:

• Harmonizing and counterpoint

• Rhythm through vocal percussion

• Applied music theory in real-time

• Freestyle language and vocal storytelling

• Ensemble techniques like blend, tuning, balance, and responsiveness

• Exploration of musical genres and cultures

You’ll learn practical tools for improvisation and ensemble singing—but just as importantly, you’ll develop fundamental musicianship: active listening, intuitive phrasing, rhythmic fluency, and harmonic awareness.

And above all, Sound-Play is radically inclusive. It’s designed to welcome and empower every singer, regardless of experience level. The creative goal is to invent musical structures that give each participant a place in the circle, ensuring every voice is seen, heard, and celebrated.

What You’ll Walk Away With:

• A noticeable boost in mood, energy, and creative vitality

• Stronger listening, timing, and ensemble skills

• Greater vocal confidence and musical curiosity

• Meaningful social connection with a warm, welcoming community

• Renewed inspiration—whether you’re a singer, teacher, instrumentalist, or just starting your creative journey

Who It’s For:

• Adults 18+ seeking more joy, connection, and creative freedom

• Beginners, improvisers, classically trained vocalists, instrumentalists, educators, and anyone in between

• People looking for an accessible, low-pressure, high-impact creative practice

More Than a Class – Join a Welcoming Community

At Leela, you’re not just taking a class—you’re joining a community where everyone belongs. No matter your age (18+), race, gender, orientation, or background, you’ll be met with warmth and open arms.

After class, we often head to a nearby spot for an informal post-class hangout. It’s an easy, informal way to wind down, share a few laughs, and get to know the people you just sang with—no pressure, just good company.

With over 20 years of experience and more than 15,000 students served in San Francisco, Leela Improv Theatre is known for creating welcoming, community-centered spaces where people of all backgrounds can explore their creativity. Now in Raleigh, we’re proud to offer The Sound-Play Circle—a musical improv class that invites you to find your voice, express yourself freely, and experience the joy of making music together in real time.

Whether you’re a lifelong musician or trying this for the first time, you’ll be met with encouragement, curiosity, and care. Just walk through the door—we’ll take it from there.

Reserve your spot today—and come see what happens when voices come together.