Ensemble Event Descriptions
Roots and Wings Tour 2026

Sound Journey Offerings

Workshop Offerings

 The Rhythm of Life

Explore embodied rhythm to deepen musical connection and expressive flow.

Time: 2 Hours
Instrument Focus: Rhythm and Percussion
Musical Concepts: Timing, Rhythmic Concepts and Patterns

This workshop is for students who are interested in exploring rhythm as a living, embodied experience. We will dive into concepts of rhythm, timing, and flow, learning how to bring rhythm fully into the body and integrate it into your musical offerings. This workshop draws on a lifetime of musical study and practical experience with rhythmic exercises and patterns, providing tools to deepen your sense of timing, connection, and musical presence.

Students will engage in interactive exercises that encourage feeling rhythm in new ways, both individually and collectively. These exercises can enhance your ability to lead Sound Journeys, Sound Baths, or other musical experiences, as well as support your personal musical practice. No prior experience with percussion or formal training is necessary, and students of all levels are welcome.

Participants are encouraged to bring instruments they enjoy playing, as well as an openness to moving, clapping, or exploring rhythm through the body. By the end of the workshop, students will have practical techniques to weave rhythmic awareness into their music and everyday life.

Collective Resonance

Experience playful group music-making through melody, improvisation, and handpan.

Time: 2 Hours
Instrument Focus: Handpan
Musical Concepts: Improvisation, Listening, Group Play

This workshop is for students who are interested in exploring melody, improvisation, and the joy of making music together. Led by the Settle Into Stillness Ensemble, students will dive into the handpan and other instruments, learning to connect with the music, the group, and their own musical intuition.

We will focus on hands-on group exercises that encourage improvisation, listening, and playful exploration of sound. Topics include melodic phrasing, rhythmic interplay, and creating spontaneous musical conversation in a group setting. This workshop is suitable for all levels, whether you are new to handpan or have some experience, and applicable to any instruments you bring.

Students are encouraged to bring instruments they enjoy playing, as well as an openness to experimentation and group interaction. By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with practical tools for leading playful, melodic, and collaborative musical experiences, both in Sound Journeys and personal practice.

Crystal Harmony

Learn crystal bowl techniques and musical fundamentals through interactive exploration.

Time: 2 Hours
Instrument Focus: Crystal Singing Bowls
Musical Concepts: Musical Scales, Intervals, and Harmony

This workshop is for students who are interested in learning the art of playing crystal singing bowls in a fun, interactive group setting. Led by the Settle Into Stillness Ensemble, students will explore techniques for playing, musical scales, intervals, and the foundations of harmony—all while engaging in playful group exercises that bring music to life.

This workshop is suitable for complete beginners and also suitable for those with experience who want to deepen their understanding of melody, harmony, and ensemble playing. Students are encouraged to bring instruments they enjoy, and will have hands-on opportunities with our high-quality crystal singing bowls.

By the end of the workshop, participants will have practical tools for creating harmonious Sound Journeys, Sound Baths, or personal musical explorations, as well as a deeper connection to the joyful, collaborative nature of music.

Vibrational Dynamics

Discover gong techniques, textures, and deep-listening skills for dynamic expression.

2 Hours
Instrument Focus: Gong
Musical Concepts: Deep Listening, Dynamics, Sequencing, and Composition

This workshop is for students who are interested in exploring the gong and the art of creating immersive musical experiences. Led by the Settle Into Stillness Ensemble, students will dive into techniques for playing the gong, connecting deeply with their instrument, and developing musical awareness through dynamics, sequencing, and textural composition.

We will explore musical concepts such as deep listening, sequencing, and layering sound to craft engaging and emotive musical soundscapes. This workshop is suitable for students of all levels, whether you are new to the gong or have some experience. Students are encouraged to bring gongs they are comfortable working with, and will have an opportunity to be hands-on with up to 17 of our gongs and other metallic instruments, ranging from 19 inches to 60 inches from some of the world’s top gong makers, including Shawn Aceto, Ryan Shelledy,  Paiste Symphonic and Planetary Gongs, Grotto Sonora, Traditional Chinese Gongs, antique Himalayan Gong, and more!

By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with practical tools for composing, improvising, and leading gong-based Sound Journeys or performances, as well as a deeper connection to the resonant and transformative power of the gong.

The Universal Heart

Integrate your musical skills through collaboration, composition, and shared creativity.

Time: 2 Hours
Instrument Focus:
Musical Concepts: Group jamming, composition, improvisation

Pre-requisite: 1-2 other workshops completed or some experience with music and/or facilitation. 

This workshop is for students who want to integrate all they have learned into practical, real-world application. Led by our ensemble, participants will explore the transformative power of music and sound in human experience, the concept of music as a language for connection, and composition as a form of self-expression. Through hands-on exercises, sound circles, and group activities, students will put sound into action, learning to create, lead, and share meaningful musical experiences.

The workshop will also feature a panel discussion on applying your passion and knowledge of sound in life, career, and creative practice. Students are encouraged to bring instruments they enjoy playing, as well as openness to improvisation, group collaboration, and exploration. By the end of the session, participants will leave with tools for composing, facilitating, and integrating sound into their personal and professional journeys.