Welcome to Singing Roots

Whether you are looking to join a singing circle straight away or just dipping your toe in the waters, I am glad you have landed in these pages. Take a breath and linger for a moment; you never know, something might just call to you if you listen carefully…

Nurturing singing circles in and around Sussex

Singing roots us; it connects us to ourselves and is never the same twice. When we do it in a group, it can connect us to others and when we do it in nature it can connect us to so much more.

My circles aren't about judging yourself, or being perfectly in time or in tune. They are about turning up just as you are and trusting yourself just enough to give it a go, for the pure enjoyment of it.

Numbers for my circles are kept small to allow for a fully immersive, connected, nurturing and therapeutic experience. As a psychotherapist I hold all my circles in a way that is informed by my training, knowledge and many years of experience and there is always a therapeutic element that you can lean into should you wish.

I currently run the following regular singing circles:

Woodland Circle - Nurturing Singing Circle:

The 2nd Saturday of the month, 10am-12.30pm, all welcome. A small, nurturing singing circle in the woods, in which we can sing, share, and drop into connection with ourselves and each other.

The Wolf Pack Women’s Circle:

A monthly women’s circle held on the last Friday evening of each month. (Occasional changes are necessary towards the end of the year, please check dates before buying a ticket). Come and be part of the pack - connect, reflect and sing.

Please note that by coming to one of my singing circles you agree to the terms and conditions.

Woodland Circle - Nurturing Singing Circle:

The 2nd Saturday of each month, 10am-12.30pm in private woodlands near Barcombe

£20/£16 (concs).

Held in the woods around the fire - connect with yourself, the land and each other. This group is a bit longer to really allow time for quiet at the end to let the songs and harmonies sink in and a moment for ourselves before heading back to life! The circle is held in beautiful woodland and goes ahead whatever the weather so be sure to bring whatever you may need to keep yourselves comfortable.

The Wolf Pack Women’s Circle:

The last Friday of each month, 7-9pm, in private woodlands near Barcombe (and indoors when needed)

£20/£16 (concs)

The Wolf Pack is a nurturing women's circle that offers a moment in your month where the pace can slow down and you can be the one being held. With a more therapeutic element and set around a different theme each month, each circle will be a bit different, but will always involve some gentle movement, some singing and some time in ritual or quiet with blankets and relaxing oils for your hands.

Upcoming events:

Oak Time: therapeutic singing day retreat. 

19th January 2025 - 10am-3pm - The Nest, Heaven Farm, Dane Hill - £50 (£44 Concs).

Gift yourself Oak Time…..

We can find ourselves holding a lot in life and it can be easy to forget to fill our own cups. In contrast to the fast moving, capable parts of us that can end up carrying a lot, 'Oak Time' is a phrase I use to describe that slower, deeper rhythm that our souls know. This Oak Time singing retreat is an invitation to arrive completely as you are and slide into a slower pace, where you can connect with yourself and you can be the one being held.

We always start our circles with an internal check in and the invitation to check in with the circle too, before moving into some singing. The songs will be offered like medicine, to sit with, digest and sing either for yourselves or holding a part of yourself in mind. There will also be an exercise for contemplation - a chance to meet yourself exactly where you are and spend time with an intention, a wish or a process you might be holding at the time. If you wish, you can speak this to the group, or you can just name it to yourself. At the end of our day, we come back together for some more singing and a closing circle. The day will also involve some gentle movement and some time in ritual or silence with blankets and relaxing oil for your hands, hopefully leaving you feeling peaceful, nourished and really present with yourself.

Numbers for my circles are kept small to allow for a fully immersive, connected, nurturing and therapeutic experience. As a psychotherapist I hold all my circles in a way that is informed by my training, knowledge and many years of experience and there is always a therapeutic element that you can lean into should you wish.

I will teach everything by ear - no previous singing experience required and all abilities are welcome.

Please be aware that the space we will be in is up a steep flight of stairs which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. We will also spend time outside in the woods - if this causes concerns around accessibility or any questions at all, please get in touch and I will try my best to answer them.

Please contact me for more details and to book tickets.

  • Singing in the woods is the highlight of my month! Not only is it grounding, but Jody is an absolute joy. However or whoever you feel on the day is welcome. I have shed tears, laughed and smiled a lot too. There is never any judgement, you just feel held. It really is a magical experience and one I highly recommend.

    Anneliese

  • I really look forward to the monthly woodland singing circles. For me, they are an opportunity to leave my head and connect with my breath, my body, and the environment. The woodland is so beautiful, and to be there singing in harmony with a group of people you have just met - it feels very magical and special. I always leave feeling invigorated, calm and uplifted.

    Clara

  • I'm only a recent participant in the Singing Roots group but have very much enjoyed the sessions I've attended: it's so nourishing to have time out in nature and to have some space for myself. Jody teaches the simple songs in a very accessible way and the harmonies work really well. Everyone is very friendly and I especially like the relaxing time at the end when we lie down - and just breathe!

    Sheila

  • My 13 year old daughter and I have been attending the singing circle for home educated children at Chelwood Gate. It's a lovely small group of really friendly people, and we have a wonderful time. My daughter loves that even though all the songs are new to her, they are easy to learn as most only have a small number of words. The session is lovely and calming, and we always feel happy and relaxed on our journey home afterwards.

    Participant

  • We attend the Singing Roots monthly singing circle. It's a truly magical experience, the sound of harmonies touches the soul. Jody is a really calm, beautiful teacher who makes everyone feel welcome. Myself and my 13 year old daughter love it! The earth songs Jody teaches are almost chant-like and afterwards you feel as if you've been through a guided meditation. Can't recommend it highly enough. Disclaimer - I can't sing so don't be put off by any inhibitions!

    Juliet