What is Spirit Jam?

Spirit Jam is a container for collective vocal improvisation. Led by Leah Shoshanah, the workshop combines long-form theatrical improvisation techniques with music to build a framework for collaborative non-hierarchical music-making. The workshop builds “group mind” through musical games and structures, leading up to a free-form vocal improvisation… a “Spirit Jam”. This experience offers an opportunity to forge deep connection to community and to the Self.

Where did the workshop come from?

Leah’s journey with voice began at age 10 and has included jazz, classical, operatic, and energetic techniques. She’s learned from renowned teachers like Metropolitan Opera stars Julia Faulkner and Winnifred Brown, jazz vocalist Typhanie Monique, and her current teacher, Vince Lonergan, who explores the energetics of voice. Along the way, she also studied conscious body movement with Nana Shineflug and theatrical improvisation with Mike Abdelsayed, tying it all back to the power of presence and connection through voice.

Why attend Spirit Jam?

This practice has holistic benefits for the mind & body. Having worked through challenges like asthma and back pain using movement and singing, Leah understands how deeply voice connects to the body. She’s developed an ability to hear where tension lives in others’ voices and helps participants release it, opening up not just their singing but their whole body’s alignment.

Spirit Jam weaves is creative space where participants can explore, grow, and feel the joy of singing together. Participants have reported that this workshop has helped lift their mood through the visceral feeling of connection in collective harmony.

Do you need to have musical training to attend a Spirit Jam?

Nope! All are welcome. In the past, the groups have ranged from folks who have not sung in their whole lives to professional singers. There is something to be learned at all levels of experience.