How we care for each other
- Come as you are. Sing, listen, or step out whenever you need to. Sharing and touch are always your choice.
- Sing any part. Parts go by range, high, middle, and low, never by gender. Switch whenever you like.
- Use the names and pronouns people share. When we go around with names, adding your pronouns is up to you.
- Keep what's shared in the circle.
- Ask before taking photos. Anyone can say no.
- Stay home if you're sick. There will be another circle next week.
- Tell us if something feels wrong. We'll listen and take care of it, and we'll ask anyone who makes the circle unsafe to leave.
When feelings come up
Singing together can open things up, and tears are as welcome here as laughter. You never have to share more than you want to. If you need a moment, step out, and one of us can sit with you if you'd like company. CommuniTree isn't therapy, but singing together can be healing.
What the tree means to us
A tree grows slowly, season by season. Underground, its roots reach toward the trees around it, and above, its branches make shelter for anything that needs it. That's the kind of community we hope to grow.
- Roots. We begin each circle by grounding, and we honor the songwriters and traditions our songs come from.
- Rings. We sing in seasons and call them rings. Each one grows out of the last.
- Branches. In time we hope to sing in parks and public places, and to hear songs led by many voices.
- Rest. Trees rest in winter, and so do we. There's a pause between seasons.
- Fruit. The songs we write are shared freely, and we want anyone who wants to sing to be able to.
- Canopy. Room for everyone underneath.