About this Event
Just Bring Your Voice: East End Jazz Invites the Whole Community to Join the American Songbook Sing-Along
Ever wanted to step inside the music instead of just watching from a seat? East End Jazz and the Southampton Cultural Center (SCC) are removing the boundary between performer and audience with a special, fully interactive edition of the East Meets West Jazz Jam Session: “Sing-Along the American Songbook.”
On Sunday, March 8th, from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM, community members of every background - whether you only sing in the shower, in a choir or have never touched an instrument in your life - are invited to the Southampton Cultural Center to become part of the experience.
Unlike traditional jazz jams that cater solely to instrumentalists, this session is intentionally crafted for listeners, music lovers, and complete novices—you name it, we play it! Printed lyric sheets will be provided at the door, making it effortless to join in on classic Amrican songbook standards including “Fly Me to the Moon,” “Summertime,” “What a Difference a Day Made,” “The Girl from Ipanema,” and Nat King Cole’s “L-O-V-E.”
The afternoon kicks off with a featured set by beloved local vocalist Vanessa Trouble, backed by an all-star rhythm section featuring Bill Smith on piano, Iris Ornig on bass and Troy Grindle on drums. Following the opening sing-along set, the stage opens up for a multi-generational, judgment-free jam session.
Musicians and vocalists wishing to sit in are encouraged to sign up in advance by emailing [email protected] with the title of the song you would like to perform, including sheet music.
“Jazz isn't an exclusive club - it's a shared language,” says Iris Ornig, Director of East End Jazz. “Last season we had musicians from ages 14 to 80 sharing the stage. This time, we’re bringing the entire room into the music. You don't need to know how to read music or play an instrument to belong here - you just have to show up and enjoy being in the moment together.”
Whether you come to sing, dance, listen or sit in with the band, the event promises a warm, welcoming community atmosphere where total beginners and seasoned pros share the same creative space.
Why You Should Attend:
- Zero Pressure, Total Inclusivity: Lyric sheets provided—no musical experience necessary.
- Open Stage: Local vocalists and instrumentalists of all skill levels are welcome to sit in after the opening set.
- Youth & Community Mentorship: A safe, encouraging space where student musicians play right alongside veteran professionals.
- A Pure Community Gathering: Designed equally for dancers, passive listeners, families, jazz lovers and active performers.
Event venue & nearby stays
Southampton Cultural Center, 25 Pond Lane, Southampton, United States
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