YOGA SOUNDSCAPE: BECOMING
 

Sunday ~ June 3, 2012 ~ 6:30-8:30pm
YogaWorks, Soho
459, Broadway, NY, NY

*only 60 spots!
*please arrive by 6:15pm. no late entry
*must wear all black to attend
* stay after for refreshments
*open to all levels 

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKET
 

Producer and yoga teacher: 
Aarona Pichinson

Musicians: 
Shane Shanahan (percussion/tuvan throat singing), Joshua Geisler (flute/guitar), Hannah Thiem (violin/laptop), Srikala (vocals/laptop/mrdanga), Raymond Sicam (cello), Tyler Sussman (didgeridoo)

Visual/Light Artist: 
Kurt Ritta

Yoga Soundscape is a unique event where art meets spirit. It’s where the lines between performance and performer become blurred and where student and teacher become one. 
 

 In this one of a kind collaboration between yoga teacher Aarona Pichinson, a live orchestra of highly acclaimed musicians, laptop specialists, and visual artists, participants will be saturated with a refreshingly innovative way to experience yoga and art. With the use of sound, live music, floor to ceiling projected visuals, creative technology, and a thoughtfully mapped out yoga class, a cohesive and moving story will be told from beginning to end about the nature of “Becoming”. This 2-hour movement experience will be insightful, mind-expanding, and emotionally touching, giving participants an opportunity to dial deeply into their senses on a dynamic level.
 

We go to yoga to chill out our over thinking mind, to de-stress, and to return to our body. We indulge in music and art to be inspired, motivated, and to challenge ourselves to dream bigger. This next step of Yoga Soundscape brings it all together. Join us and leave with a burst of inspiration, creative power, and a heightened connection to the planet.
 

"Don't ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive and then go do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive." ~ Howard Thurman

$40 in advance / $60 at the door 

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKET

OR CALL: 646.442.6203 

* YOGA SOUNDSCAPE with Aarona *  
Weekly series at Kula Yoga 
every Friday night 6:30pm!!!

Kula Yoga Project 
28 Warren Street 4th floor 
(btwn Church/Broadway in Tribeca, NYC) 

'Yoga Soundscape' is a unique yoga and music experience curated and guided by Aarona Pichinson. Each week an eclectic array of incredibly talented musicians, laptop masters, or DJs perform live offering soulful sonic journeys ranging from old-world tribal instrumental to experimental electronic beats. Classes are filled with intention, aligning rhythmic sequences, stretched out breaths, and sweaty drops - open to all levels with playful room to freestyle for the more seasoned practitioner. Bring a friend, bring your water, and indulge your senses. Each class will be the cost of one class on your kula card unless otherwise specified ($18), plus a minimum request of $5 towards the musicians.  
CHECK OUT THE UPCOMING MONTH BELOW...

Michael Hewett
guitar and laptop all layered together with original tracks
www.michael-hewett.com, www.sarvayogaacademy.com

Go beyond the surface and deep into the many layered senses that make you you. Rocking orchestral, dynamic downtempo, and psychotropic ambient instrumentals, we're super excited to welcome Michael Hewett to the mix! He's an accomplished composer, guitarist, producer, and recording artist combining live performance with a mix of original tracks and soundscapes from his computer. Michael has released a range of successful CDs beginning with “Hidden in Plain Sight,” (original compositions written for solo acoustic guitar), the Dharma Moon record label released his second CD “Being in Dreaming,” (which won him international acclaim), and his third CD “Ally”. In 2009, Michael released his first classical guitar album entitled 'Eleven Pieces'. He's played lead guitar for the hit Broadway musical "Wicked", is a video instructor for Guitar World Magazine, tours internationally with his own projects, and composes for dance theatre, television and film. Plus being a well respected yoga teacher in NYC (and beyond) and founder of the Sarva Yoga Academy - he is a dynamic force to be reckoned with.

Jeff Liffmann
Fender Rhodes, various other keyboards and synthesizers
www.jeffliffmann.bandcamp.com

Step into an atmosphere of ambient bliss and sweat your gunk away. Everything is created live when Jeff Liffmann performs - nothing is looped and nothing is pre-recorded yet the layers and textures he improvises fill the room with a thick resonance of brilliant refined sound. A piano and keyboard player set to graduate from Berklee College of Music this May, Jeff brings a wide range of experience into his stellar performances. His music directly responds to and helps to create the energy in the room, invoking a spacious quality of movement and breath. His playing styles and influences include classic rock, acid jazz, electronica, funk, soul, and more. He has lived in the mountains of Colorado, the city of Buenos Aires, and a few places in between. Jeff's band, New York City based JAB, is a live-electronica band committed to making you dance. He will be a featured performer at the Wanderlust Festival in Vermont. Sweet!

Hannah Thiem & Srikala Kerel Roach
violin, laptops, ambient vocals, electronic backdrops, indian drums
www.hannahthiem.com, www.srikalogy.com

Yoga Soundscape is about to get rocked! These two visionary music makers come together to create a fabric of sound never before felt or heard. Aarona asked them to join forces after working with each independently. Hannah Thiem (of Copal and Nyxyss) is a soulful inspired violinist and electronic beat master stirring emotion and fluidity with Middle Eastern, Eastern European, and Nordic flavours. On stage, she's opened for The Rolling Stones, Bassnectar,  Shpongle, and EOTO. In studio she's recorded with Beats Antique, Irma Thomas (Grammy-nominated "Simply Grand"), The Rising Smoke of the Hobo Kings (Jon Margulies, Haj Ji), Ancient Astronauts, and Voltaire. Srikala, MC, DJ, music producer and percussionist, is a powerhouse of creativity and musical wonder. Founder of Artist Ashram and Unitribe Productions, his musical creations are charting new territory in the world of conscious music as he incorporates mainstream beats into traditional kirtan and has worked with hip hop artist Anadi and kirtan bands Srikirtan and Prema Hara. Both Hannah and Srikala have performed live in the yoga scene amongst some of NYC's top yoga teachers. Come ready to have your heart strings plucked and your core turned inside out as they weave base bumpin', sweet violin playin', ambient/vocal textures that will activate a firey flow. Catch them for this teaser 'Yoga Soundscape' set before they all jet off together for Wanderlust, Vermont!

Kyle Sanna ~ guitar, effects, loops, & other goodies ~ www.kylesanna.com

Dive deep into this rare treat of extraordinary talent. Guitarist, composer, and producer Kyle Sanna's music eludes simple categorization. From his introduction to the guitar through rock music to his formal study of jazz and composition to his immersion in the traditional music of Ireland, Kyle is continually forging his compositional language and playing style out of these and other diverse interests. He's performed with some of today’s greatest virtuosos, including Edgar Meyer, Yo-Yo Ma, Chris Thile, and Theodosii Spassov. His musical inheritance was a 1945 Epiphone guitar, a newspaper photograph of his grandfather trumpeting with Louis Armstrong, and his parents’ love for popular music of the 1960’s.  As a composer, Kyle most often scores the visual and narrative arts, especially film, theater, and dance. He's a member of the bands Sky White Tiger, The Smooth Maria, Kinan Azmeh’s CityBand, and Tall Tall Trees plus is in the midst of recording a solo album. It's rare to get a seat this close yogis!

Max Alper ~ guitar, keyboard, vocals, & various electronic devices ~ www.soundcloud.com/maxalpermusic



Let your senses unravel on your sticky mat. Shining bright throughout the New York yoga scene, Webster Hall, and Cameo Gallery in Williamsburg, Max Alper is a talented composer, performer, and improviser originally from Boston, MA. He currently studies composition, improvisation, and music synthesis at the Conservatory of Music at Brooklyn College.  Setting the tone and foundation for each performance with his voice, Max layers creative waves of ambient sounds on top with his guitar, keyboard, and various electronic devices. Each new texture weaves an expansive beautiful soundscape into a truly mind altering experience. Give your body the gift of release as you sweat your way through an elegant flow of movement, breath, and sound.

Camila Celin & Ehren Hanson ~  Indian Sarod and Tabla ~ www.quatromanos.com, www.schooloftabla.com

Come get your asana on as we move deep into gorgeous sound, multi-dimensional breath, and the many layers of our hearts.  Husband and wife, Ehren and Camila,  present and electrifying performance in the classical Indian tradition that has proven to be magical, deeply emotional, and exciting. A musician her entire life, Camila Celin was Grammy nominated in 2009 for best world music album in collaboration with slide guitar maestro Debashish Bhattacharya. A disciple of the great Pandit Anindo Chatterjee, Ehren has been playing Tabla for over 17 years and just had a recent review in the "Times of India" where they called his performance 'enthralling'. They both live between Kolkata and NYC throughout the year and founded the 'Anindo Chatterjee School of Tabla in New York', where they host some of the greatest maestros of our time, with classes, workshops, and concerts. Their performance is celebrated for its intimacy with the deep and fated connection that you can see, feel, and hear between them.

Tyler Sussman ~ didgeridoo and flute with crafted recorded sounds of bowls and nature ~ www.tylersussman.com
Profoundly inspired by our Mother Earth, musician and composer Tyler Sussman has traveled around the globe seeking unique environments and landscapes and recording their sounds. He spent much of 2010 in Costa Rica where he began to incorporate these natural textures into his compositional palate. Tonight Tyler will premiere his work entitled "Absorb the Vibra-Sword" which was composed specifically for yoga and relaxation. It features live performance on didgeridoo and flute with a specially crafted soundscape of his recorded travels and collections: ocean, forest, wind, rain, layers of harmonium, and Tibetan singing bowls. These layered sound vibrations will support a powerful practice of movement and breath.  Join us for a dose of cosmic flow - right in the middle of our beloved concrete jungle. You may even begin to hallucinate your favorite natural setting right before your eyes.

Srikala ~ Indian percussion, ambient vocals, beats on laptop ~www.srikalogy.com
Srikala, MC, DJ, music producer and percussionist, is a powerhouse of creativity and musical genius.  Founder of Artist Ashram and Unitribe Productions, he's relentlessly creating spaces for people to freely open their hearts in collaboration. His devotion to bhakti permeates his work, and his musical creations are charting new territory in the world of mainstream conscious music.  As an acclaimed music producer, Srikala incorporates mainstream beats into traditional kirtan and has worked with hip hop artist Anadi and kirtan bands Srikirtan and Prema Hara. He's recently released his album 'Sacred Hip Hop' and is preparing his next release 'Srikalogy Kirtan Sessions', co-produced with Duke Mushroom. Srikala is a sound magician and will coax your body and mind to deeply tune-in while giving your spirit a memorable ride to a blend of hip hop, reggae, dubstep, kirtan inspirations, and experimental moments of surprise.

Kevin Nathaniel on mbira and shekere, Tripp Dudley on tabla ~  www.kaleidhaphonic.com
This duo will perk up your ears and move smooth percussive sound straight into every cell of your being. With the elegant rhythm of their instruments and intuitive sense combined, your yoga practice will be supported as you root to rise in every pose, allowing breath to fill you like the fountain of youth. A pioneer on the world music scene in NYC, Kevin worked closely with the late mbira legend, Ephat Mujuru for 16 years building mbiras (aka, thumb piano) and playing traditional and contemporary mbira music. As a founding member of the Spirit Ensemble, Kevin collaborated with the late mbira master Zeleka, and is now one of the very few keepers of the Zeleka mbira stlye. A musician since the age of 10, Tripp started studying Indian rhythmic systems on frame drums and tabla while attending Berklee College of Music. Since graduating in 2005, Tripp has performed throughout the USA, and the UK with acclaimed singer-songwriter Beth Nielsen Chapman, and currently resides in New York studying under the guidance of Tabla master Pandit Samir Chatterjee.

David Ellenbogen ~ Tibetan/crystal bowls, gongs, flutes, guitar, & other mystical sounds ~www.davidellenbogen.com
Unravel the kinks, peel away a few layers, and arrive fully into body, breath and sound. Tonight you'll soak your senses in a sweet and savory range of music, from acoustic African grooves to Tibetan and crystal bowl soundscapes. David Ellenbogen is a multi-faceted man of talent ranging from musician, producer, educator, and radio host for his own show "Ragas Live" (New York City's WKCR 89.9 FM) where he shines the spotlight on top performers of Indian Raga. David was first initiated into the music of Yoga by studying in Calcutta with India's finest slide guitarist Debashish Bhattacharya. He later worked with bansuri wizard Joshua Geisler to distill these Indian Ragas into a new ambient sound with 'Acoustic Mandala Project'. His latest interest in the grooves of the Mandingo Griots of West Africa, have led to his joining Famoro Dioubate's Kakande, and most recently recording and performing in Mali with one of their top pop star guitarists, Oumar Konate. David will whisk you away into a deep and healing sound bath filled with mysterious and mystical sounds. This might just be the most profound savasana you've ever experienced. Fade away.

Mathias Kunzli  drummer/percussionist and jaw harp.
www.mathiaskunzli.com

Hailing from Switzerland, multi-disciplined highly-talented drummer/percussionist Mathias has become ubiquitous in the New York City music scene.  Music has guided his career trajectory for over two decades and he's studied with some of the greatest and most diverse teachers including Jamey Haddad, Zohar Fresco, Joe Hunt, Danny Gottlieb, and Marco Kaeppeli, to name just a few. When Mathias isn't touring extensively around the world he can be found most every night of the week in some of Manhattan and Brooklyn’s finest concert venues performing in a variety of styles. Now he's hitting the yoga scene! Come ready to have your vibration raised as he beats and plucks percussive sounds seamlessly into a sweet steady asana groove. You won't believe this guy has only 2 arms. This is truly a treat.

HOUSE OF WATERS  - Max ZT on hammered dulcimer, Luke Notary on percussion, Moto Fukushima on bass
www.houseofwaters.com,  www.youtube.com/user/houseofwaters

 'House of Waters' is a Brooklyn based band with a unique global sound. Drawing inspiration from Africa, India, South America, and jazz, they are, as TimeOut NY states “a sight to behold.” With hammered dulcimer virtuoso Max ZT; master percussionist Luke Notary; and brilliant bassist Moto Fukushima, these three innovative musicians are redefining their instruments as they excite their audiences. Max, a National Hammered Dulcimer Champion studied with the Cissoko griot family in Senegal and recently returned from a year in India studying with the world-renowned santoor master Pandit Shivkumar Sharma. Luke studied with djembe legend Cheik Oumar Diabate and has just returned from a year touring the world with Cirque du Soleil. Moto's finesse, subtlety and power attracted the attention of Joe Lovano and other jazz greats, who he has accompanied to critical acclaim. House of Waters has shared the stage with Ravi Shankar, Tinariwen, Jimmy Cliff, KODO, and more. Their concerts are beautiful and electrifying moments of mastery and magic. Combined with the Yoga Soundscape experience, you will dive deep into breath and body while dropping into this gift of sound for a truly special evening.

Garth Stevenson ~ standup double bass ~ www.garthstevenson.com

Witness meditation as movement. Glide into the zone, become entranced with breath, and ripple through the sounds of bassy strings. Brooklyn-based composer and double bassist, Garth Stevenson, draws most of his creative inspiration from the natural landscapes beyond the metropolis in which he's lived for the bulk of his twenties. Garth was raised in the mountains of British Columbia where nature became his primary inspiration and the common thread between his life and music. In the past four years,  he's released two full-length solo albums, informed by his experiences carrying his 150-year-old double bass to the woods, beach, and desert. His most recent and critically acclaimed release, Flying, is an adulation to a recent life-changing trip to Antarctica as well as his work playing in yoga classes with Elena Brower for the past three years (including a class in Paris for France’s largest yoga gathering in history for over 3000 people in front of the Eiffel Tower!)  Of Flying, iTunes praises, “Garth Stevenson joins the likes of Brian Eno, Sigur Rós, and David Sylvian as a practitioner of this ethereal yet accessible genre." Mmm hmm. We love you.

Matt Kilmer ~ frame drums, harp, wind gongs, laptop ~  www.mattkilmer.com,   www.themastmusic.com 

You. Want. To. Be. Here. Percussionist/producer/innovator Matt Kilmer, who seemingly has 8 arms, will weave a scintillating rhythmic tapestry with his hybrid set of frame drums, floor toms, cymbals, wind gongs, harp, and other tricks stitched with electronic waves of laptop music genius. He's performed and recorded with many prominent artists, from hip hop superstar Lauryn Hill and comedian/musician Reggie Watts, to kirtan mainstay Krishna Das.  His music can be heard on the hit TV show "Louie" where he is a composer and plays all the drums and percussion. He also performs regularly with his band The Mast, which released their gorgeous debut album 'Wild Poppies',  in the summer of 2011. Come move through a percussive and lyrical yoga practice as you lengthen, bend, and shake - creating space and lifting vibration throughout your entire being. Aarona has been trying to get Matt to perform a Yoga Soundscape for months. It's time. Come.

Srikala ~ Indian percussion, ambient vocals, beats on laptop ~ www.srikalogy.com

Yes, it's Friday the 13th, and MC/DJ/music producer/percussionist Srikala is a powerhouse of creativity and musical genius.  Founder of Artist Ashram and Unitribe Productions, he's relentlessly creating spaces for people to freely open their hearts in collaboration. His devotion to bhakti permeates his work, and his musical creations are charting new territory in the world of mainstream conscious music.  As an acclaimed music producer, Srikala incorporates mainstream beats into traditional kirtan and has worked with hip hop artist Anadi and kirtan bands Srikirtan and Prema Hara. He's recently released his album 'Sacred Hip Hop' and is preparing his next release 'Srikalogy Kirtan Sessions', co-produced with Duke Mushroom. Srikala is a sound magician and will coax your body and mind to deeply tune-in while giving your spirit a memorable ride through a blend of hip hop, reggae, dubstep, kirtan inspirations, and experimental moments of surprise.

DJ $mall Change ~ vinyl, turntables, laptop ~  www.djsmallchange.com

Tonight we're back on track (and turntable) for the long awaited 2012 (we're still alive!)! DJ $mall ¢hange starts off the month of January with a diverse range of tunes, from way back in the day to the sounds of tomorrow.  He's been at it for over two decades, collecting a plethora of vinyl records, and is showing no sign of slowing down any time soon.  $mall ¢hange has held longtime residencies on renowned freeform station WFMU and legendary afterhours loft party Rubulad, and has of course been to the desert (aka burningmanland) over a dozen times and opened up for Shuggie Otis once. For Yoga Soundscape, $mall ¢hange will dig up a mix of his deepest dubs, spirit jazz, tropical rhythms old and new, and some other surprises. Have you ever tried meditating to death metal?  I'm kidding. Maybe. Join us ready to sweat, balance, flip, probably laugh, and leave wishing you had a live recording of this class.

Hannah Thiem on violin with electronic backdrops – www.hannahthiem.com

Hannah Thiem (Copal, Nyxyss) is a soulful inspired violinist stirring emotion and fluidity with Middle Eastern, Eastern European and Nordic flavors. On stage, Hannah has opened for The Rolling Stones (with Kanye West), Bassnectar (with Haj Ji and Jon Margulies) and Shpongle Live (solo). In studio, she's recorded with Beats Antique, Irma Thomas (Grammy-nominated "Simply Grand"), The Rising Smoke of the Hobo Kings (Jon Margulies, Haj Ji), Ancient Astronauts, and Voltaire. She first tapped into the NYC yoga community in 2008 with Nyxyss at one of Aarona’s earlier Yoga Soundscapes. Aarona and Hannah have continued to work together in NYC and most recently in Reykjavík, Iceland, creating a delicate and beautiful improvised flow for her classes and workshops. Hannah is going ever deeper into the NYC and Boston yoga scene with teachers Elena Brower, Chanel Luck, Bonnie Argo, and Amy Leydon. Come ready to have your heart strings plucked and your core turned inside out as Hannah weaves sweet violin melodies with background textures and colors to sweeten your flow.

Masood Ali Khan on the Hang drum/vocals, Tyler Sussman on flute/didge.
www.masoodalikhan.com, www.tylersussman.com

Spark your inner fire and ignite the flow of your sushumna nadi channel with a beautiful flow of asana in combination with the meditative and trance invoking sounds of Masood and Tyler live! Masood Ali Khan, visiting from L.A., will play a unique new instrument called the Hang, an evolved steel drum with enchanting sounds reminiscent of classical Indian music. His hypnotic rhythms and melodies support and strengthen both the meditative and physical aspect of a class while his singing of the mantras and prayers light the way. His long list of performances with well known musicians such as Wah, Girish, Dave Stringer, Govindas & Radha, C.C White, The Mayapuris, (to name a few),  and his success with two fantastic CDs in the yoga scene and beyond: 'Yoga Sessions' and 'Hang With Angels' has put Masood in a unique position to share his magic. Lyrical flautist and didgeridoo player Tyler Sussman, born and bred in California and making it happen in NYC,  began his relationship with music as a classical and jazz musician. During a rejuvenating trip to the pacific northwest, Tyler synchronistically stumbled upon the didgeridoo with friend AJ Block and together they founded 'Didge Project' in NYC, a didgeridoo awareness movement and organization. He often travels around the world seeking unique environments and recording their natural sounds and textures to use in conjunction with the saxophone, flute, clarinet and didgeridoo. We are beyond honored to have them both tonight!

HOUSE OF WATERS  - Max ZT on hammered dulcimer, Luke Notary on percussion, Moto Fukushima on bass
www.houseofwaters.com,  www.youtube.com/user/houseofwaters

Grooving to a sweet yoga flow with this amazing trio is an extremely special treat. 'House of Waters' is a Brooklyn based band with a unique global sound. Drawing inspiration from Africa, India, South America, and jazz, they are, as TimeOut NY states “a sight to behold.” With hammered dulcimer virtuoso Max ZT; master percussionist Luke Notary; and brilliant bassist Moto Fukushima, these three innovative musicians are redefining their instruments as they excite their audiences. Max, a National Hammered Dulcimer Champion studied with the Cissoko griot family in Senegal and recently returned from a year in India studying with the world-renowned santoor master Pandit Shivkumar Sharma. Luke studied with djembe legend Cheik Oumar Diabate and has just returned from a year touring the world with Cirque du Soleil. Moto's finesse, subtlety and power attracted the attention of Joe Lovano and other jazz greats, who he has accompanied to critical acclaim. House of Waters has shared the stage with Ravi Shankar, Tinariwen, Jimmy Cliff, KODO, and more. Their concerts are beautiful and electrifying moments of mastery and magic. Combined with the Yoga Soundscape experience, you will dive deep into breath and body while dropping into this gift of sound for a truly special evening.

Shane Shanahan on flute, drums, guitar, thumb pianos, tuvan throat singing, japanese singing bowls, loop and pedals. www.shaneshanahan.com
Drawing on over tens years of experience, Shane Shanahan  weaves an incredibly rich sonic tapestry with the threads of many diverse cultures. If you didn't catch him last time around at Yoga Soundscape, you absolutely must this time. His expertise and intuitive assortment of sonic touches adds a certain depth and palpable shift to the room where your yoga practice can go on a trance-induced magic carpet ride. Shane has a Grammy Award Winning recording and performing career,  performs around the world with Yo-Yo Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble, and is a member of the Glen Velez' TaKaDiMi Project (AND has performed/recorded with Bobby McFerrin, Deep Purple, Aretha Franklin, Alison Krause, Philip Glass, Sonny Fortune, Fantasia, Chaka Khan, Boz Skaggs, Steve Gorn and Drala, among others). You will surely be taken on a journey, transported on waves of pulsating drums, Indian and Chinese flutes, African thumb pianos, Tuvan Throat Singing, and lush electric guitar. Yum.

It's 11/11/11 !!! ~  AJ Block on Didgeridoo, Kevin Nathaniel on Mbira and Shekere, Muhamadou Salieu Suso on Kora (West African Harp) www.didgeproject.com,  www.mbirasanctuary.com, www.salieususo.fourfour.com
This Friday happens to be 11/11/11 ~ a powerful combination of numbers to amplify the magic of synchronicity and a deeper connection to our personal intuition and collective consciousness.  In numerology 11 represents refinement of ideals, revelation, artistic and inventive genius, and has an equal balance of masculine and feminine properties. There is no better team of music makers than our guests tonight to represent the genius of our beloved 11 and this rare synchronistic date. AJ Block, one of NYC's premier didgeridoo players and founder of the Didge Project, will share his unique style of harmonizing his voice with the drone of the didge as he emphasizes major skills on breath control. AJ has recorded two albums and has made several guest appearances at a number of large scale yoga/meditation events. A pioneer on the world music scene in NYC, Kevin Nathaniel, composer, percussionist, mbira player and ever-present force on the African and diasporal music scene in NYC  has worked closely with the late mbira legend, Ephat Mujuru for 16 years building mbiras and playing traditional and contemporary mbira music. Kevin composed and recorded for several projects including the audio version of Alice Walker's 'Possessing the Secret Joy', Ali MacGraw's Yoga video, and the movie 'Beloved'. And Muhamadou Salieu Suso will bless us with the West African Harp, the Kora. He was born into a family of farmers and traditional Gambian musicians and Griots that extend back nearly 1000 years. He is a direct descendent of the inventor of the Kora, JaliMady wulayn Suso, and was trained to play by his father and renowned Kora player Alhaji Musa Makang Suso. Salieu has performed widely throughout Africa, Europe, and the U.S. This fantastic trio of men join forces tonight to weave ancient wisdom with modern culture through the depths of heart and sound combined. This is an extra special night filled with high energy in sound and numbers.

 KA with Santiparro Alan Scheurman and Brooke Hamre Gellespie on crystal singing bowls, harmonium, bells, chimes, tuning forks, mbira, guitar, flute, voice and more! www.kansciousness.tumblr.com, www.goldendrum.org

Tom Rossi on African Kora - www.tomrossi.com
Tom Rossi has a natural ability to bring medicinal tones and pure magic to any audience on his self-designed 26-string kora (West African harp-lute).  For over a decade he has brought his unique healing sound to yoga and meditation classes as well as hundreds of terminally ill patients and their families in the New York area. As a recording artist, Rossi has released 11 albums and 6 singles. Salma Har, an album of world orchestral grooves and wordless hymns, was featured on BBC/PRI's "The World" with acclaimed Lisa Mullins. Plus the healthy lifestyle giant, Gaiam Inc. commissioned him to create soundtracks for the entire Mayo Clinic Wellness DVD series, the Ayurveda DVD series, and Rossi's second album 'Connections'. Clearly we are blessed to have him as he graces us for an eve of amplified breath, dripping sweat, and healing tonics of sound.

Nada Sadhana CD Release Party with Kevin & Dana Courtney & tribe -www.NadaSadhanaMusic.com
While I'm in the Catskills leading a retreat, you will get a new flavor on this special night! If you’ve been practicing at Kula lately, chances are you’ve heard Kevin Courtney’s newest music project, Nada Sadhana, thrumming through the sound system. This CD has been flying off the shelves and into the hands of both yoga teachers and students. With acoustic strings and harmonium melodies set to richly layered beats, this music was made for the kind of soulful sweatfest you’ll find at Kevin's Sunday Night Kula class. In this very special evening celebrating the album's release, hear Nada Sadhana preform live, while Dana Courtney artistically moves your body through a web of rhythm and grace. The party continues on after class with tasty treats, and a special acoustic performance by Adam Collett.  (www.adamcollett.com)

 Camila Celin looping nylon guitar, tabla, song/voice  - www.quatromanos.com
Born in Bogota Colombia, Camila Celin fell in love with guitar at age 9. By her early teens she earned great recognition for her compositions and performances and was driven by her curiosity to expand and explore the music cultures in New York, Cuba, and India.  Her journey led her to collaborate with many great artists including guitar legend Debashish Bhattacharya for which she received a grammy nomination in 2008.  Currently living between Kolkata India and New York, she is an active performer and recording artist, and is under the guidance of sarod player Sougata Roy Choudhury, tabla legend Pandit Anindo Chatterjee, and sitar maestro Pandit Krishna Bhatt.  This Friday's Yoga Soundscape will be blessed with Camila playing a variety of soothing textures, rhythms and sounds that will flow through the space seamlessly creating an electric and mystically charged ambiance.  You will drop safely into a super sonic net while your state of awareness and maybe the hairs on your neck rise.

Aaron Hermes on sitar, tabla, mixer, laptop  - www.audiotelepathy.com
Aaron Ray Hermes, coming all the way to NYC from Austin, TX,  is a sitarist, percussionist, producer, DJ and basically an all around renaissance man. First picking up the sitar in 1997, Aaron has studied in Texas and India, where he developed his musical skills alongside mediation and yoga.  He's also an Audio Engineer, producing and mixing tracks at his Houston studio called Free Range Studios which also acts as a performance space and art gallery. When he's not gigging or studio-bound, he's the main accompanist for Modern Dance classes at the Houston Ballet Academy and various other dance and yoga studios. Aaron is proud to announce the launching of his new record label this year, Audio Telepathy Records.  The first release is by world renown musician, Abbos Kosimov. Join the double 'A' team for an in depth experience of sound, breath and movement while be hypnotized by live sitar mixed into a backdrop of loops, tabla and DJ's tracks.

 Didge Project (Aj Block and Tyler Sussman) - www.didgeproject.com
In anticipation of their sophomore album, "As One," Didge Project's AJ Block and Tyler Sussman have put together a number of new compositions for the unique instrumentation of didgeridoo, harmonium, flute and saxophone. Having recently completed 5 years of musical partnership largely influenced by jazz and world music, AJ and Tyler create meditative sonic environments for dance, yoga, meditation and more. In addition to regular collaborations with many musicians, yoga teachers and wellness practitioners, Didge Project is a featured act at the ongoing NYC dance party, Get Your Dance On! Rock your Kula Flow to deep vibes and pulsing rhythms sacredly broadcasted through your body with sounds created by circular breath and accompanying harmonies.

Alex Skolnick on guitar and loop machine - www.alexskolnick.com
By his early teens, Alex Skolnick was taking guitar lessons from a then-unknown Joe Satriani, before signing on with a local SF Bay Area metal outfit, Legacy, who would soon after become known as Testament. Alex recorded his first album at age eighteen receiving critical acclaim for his lead guitar work (inspired by heroes such as Eddie Van Halen and Randy Rhoads) ranking high in many guitar magazine polls. Eventually Alex diversified and earned a music degree as a jazz guitarist, with several critically acclaimed albums with his own trio. Having performed with artists as diverse as acoustic pianist Randy Klein, Jeckyl & Hyde The Musical, pop singer Bonny Tyler and Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Alex mostly divides his time between the reunited Testament and the Alex Skolnick Trio.  Alex will be creating highly textural improvisations using acoustic guitar and loops for Yoga Soundscape. This is a rare combination, yet to be done!  Any guitar heads out there – this is an exceptional treat.

DJ Don Cerati on laptop - www.DonCerati.com 

DJ Ganesha Del Mar (aka Vanessa Kudrat) on laptop –www.bodymindgifts.com

DJ Ganesha Del Mar (aka Vanessa Kudrat and close soul sistah to Aarona) is a multi-talented yogini, body-balancing health explorer, and music collector. She’s been djing on the radio, in clubs, galleries, yoga studios, and barefoot boogies since1989. She’s also an alignment-based Vinyasa and Kundalini teacher and has been sharing dynamic yoga technology with communities around the globe for well over a decade. Musically, Vanessa loves to create sound-designs and heart-centered journeys via new era mantra and ambient audio acupuncture. Be prepared for her diverse collection of music ranging from gypsy, rock & roll, folk, and funk roots sure to send you on a magic carpet ride of breath and rhythm.

Hannah Thiem on violin with electronic backdrops – www.hannahthiem.com

Hannah Thiem (Copal, Nyxyss) is a soulful inspired violinist stirring emotion and fluidity with Middle Eastern, Eastern European and Nordic flavors. She first tapped into the NYC yoga community in 2008 with Nyxyss at one of Aarona’s earlier Yoga Soundscapes. Aarona and Hannah have continued to work together in NYC and most recently in Reykjavík, Iceland creating a delicate and beautiful improvised flow for her classes and workshops. Hannah is going ever deeper into the NYC and Boston yoga scene with teachers Elena Brower, Chanel Luck, Bonnie Argo, and Amy Leydon. Come ready to have your heart strings plucked and your core turned inside out as Hannah weaves sweet violin melodies with background textures and colors to sweeten your flow.

Ari Halbert on the Hang Drum and Daniel Sullivan on the African Djembe: 
www.reelsonwheelsny.com and www.tumericalive.com  


Yes, it's our very own kula tribe: master kula sub and practitioner - Ari,  and Tumeric juice creator - Daniel! This night will be full of beats by two yogis who know both sides of the floor. We'll blend and pulse with beat, harmonize breathe with heart, and bring  a sweet burn into the legs from a steady yet challenging warrior sequence - all guided by the taps and whacks of the rare Hang drum and the mula bandha-stimulating Djembe. Being a musician, yoga teacher and audio engineer, Ari takes great care in the cadence that music brings to a class.  Daniel keeps his nourishing vibes brewing beyond is juice and into his love for the drum. Together they bring a conscious delivery of sound that will heighten the energy of the room and transport us into a sweet zone of electric vibration that will end with a deep tonifying restoration. Mmmmm.

Tom Rossi on African Kora -  www.tomrossi.com

DJ Drez on laptop and turntables -www.djdrez.com

Drez delves into blending yesterday's roots with the innovative urban beats of today.  His gradual evolution from Hip Hop DJ to World Music Taste Maker has blossomed a litany of accomplishments that have garnered Drez the title as one of the highest ranking DJs and producers in LA's underground music scene.  When he isn't in the studio producing, spinning at some underground Hip Hop club, or having impromptu late night jam sessions with local artists, you might find him on his mat. Drez is a certified yoga instructor who teaches privately in LA and DJs yoga retreats and world music/yoga festivals worldwide (like Wanderlust!). You can catch the latest on his accomplishments in the pages of magazines ranging from The Source to Yoga Journal. Now, he's coming to Kula for an epic night of soul shaking yoga and beat filled breaths. You don't want to miss this.

Mathias Kunzli  drummer/percussionist and jaw harp.
www.mathiaskunzli.com

Hailing from Switzerland, multi-disciplined drummer/percussionist Mathias has become ubiquitous in the New York City music scene.  Music has guided his career trajectory for over two decades and he's studied with some of the greatest and most diverse teachers including Jamey Haddad, Zohar Fresco, Joe Hunt, Danny Gottlieb, and Marco Kaeppeli, to name just a few. When Mathias isn't touring extensively around the world he can be found most every night of the week in some of Manhattan and Brooklyn’s finest concert venues performing in a variety of styles. Now he's hitting the yoga scene! Come ready to have your vibration raised as he beats and plucks percussive sounds seamlessly into a sweet steady asana groove. This is truly a treat.

Gabriel & Nahdi of 'Sanga' - percussion, harmonium, vocals, mantra, devotional chants - www.illuminahdi.com

LIVE Kirtan afterwards!
 

Yoga - 6:30-8:15pm / Kirtan - 8:15-9:15pm-ish (donation)

'Sanga' is one of the basic necessities of spiritual life. Sat- Krsna, Divine energy and Sang-spirtual congregation, is the union through sound vibration on a higher conscious plane. This class will combine asana with mantra, sound with voice, heart beat with rhythm - creating a resonating Maha Mantra throughout each of us. Gabriel and Nahdi are both seasoned musicians, vocalists and songwriters joining forces to create a totally new sound in Kirtan (devotional music) and create a melodically entrancing experience through recitation of ancient mantras. This Soundscape is designed to put you into a blessed out state. And stick around after you've sweated your asana off for a devotional Bhakti filled Kirtan that will make you want to sing till your heart breaks. Come get high on the union through sound vibration. If you can't make yoga, please still come to Kirtan!

DJ Derek Beres on laptop - www.derekberes.com

Derek Beres is an awesome Brooklyn-based yoga instructor, journalist, and DJ/co-producer in EarthRise SoundSystem (along side Duke Mushroom who will be joining us in the future, so stay tuned!). Their debut album, 'The Yoga Sessions' reached #5 on iTunes World charts and have been featured in the NY Times, Yoga Journal, MTV, Boston Globe, Yoga International, and LA Yoga. Derek currently teaches 13 weekly classes at Equinox, Pure Yoga and Strala Yoga - hence has a great understanding of what it means to be a guide and DJ on the yoga floor. His blend of sounds range from eclectic beats to worldly rhythms offering a sweet pulse to the yoga floor and has been one of Aarona's choice Soundscape DJs for years. They weave their vibes effortlessly together offering creative fire to a silky flow.

AJ Block on didgeridoo - www.didgeproject.com

Experience pure vibration and welcome AJ Block, founder of Didge Project, for an unforgettable sonic experience that will deepen your yoga practice, blast open your heart, and melt your mind. His circular breath turned into sound combines the elements of jazz, Indian classical music, and world rhythms - creating a lush soundscape ideal for accessing heightened awareness, full relaxation and the ultimate sound healing movement experience. With the combo of sound vibration and yoga, we'll explore the many waves of melody, rhythm, harmony and the dynamic relationship of body and breath.  

Shane Shanahan on electric guitar, flute, percussion, throat singing - www.shaneshanahan.com
Drawing on over tens years of experience, Shane Shanahan weaves a rich sonic tapestry with the threads of many diverse cultures. Shane has a Grammy Award Winning recording and performing career,  performs around the world with Yo-Yo Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble, and is a member of the Glen Velez' TaKaDiMi Project (AND has performed/recorded with Alison Krause, Philip Glass, Sonny Fortune, Fantasia, Chaka Khan, Boz Skaggs, Steve Gorn and Drala, among others). Participants will be taken on a journey, transported on waves of pulsating drums, Indian and Chinese flutes, African thumb pianos, Tuvan Throat Singing, and lush electric guitar. Yum.

Kevin Nathaniel on mbira & percussion - www.mbirasanctuary.com
"Somehow great music can reroute our brain's electrical patterns away from that center of the brain that wants to define and separate us. Music is so essential to the make-up of the mind... The musician should be aware of this, and accept the responsibility." Join Kevin as he offers his loving skills to the yoga floor. You'll be sure to enter an expansive space as his wisdom seeps from sound to breath. Trained musically in the ancient master-disciple tradition, he's an accomplished percussionist and well-known specialist on the mbira and the shekere. He worked extensively with Zimbabwe's mbira legend Ephat Mujuru, and with master drummer Chief Bey.

Hannah Thiem on violin (hannahthiem.com), Laura Metcalf on cello (laurametcalf.com)
Join this goddess trio live and direct with  Hannah on violin, Laura on cello, and Aarona on asana. A layered backdrop of moody graceful soundscapes will be woven together creating a divine sensory yoga and sound experience. Hannah and Laura are another NYC gem secret making their way into the vast yoga scene plus travel and perform.

 Garth Stevenson on standup double bass  - www.garthstevenson.com
If you haven't already seen Garth play live with a yoga class (and even if you have) it is something profoundly moving and special. He creates lush layers of sound by bowing and looping his double bass bringing all yogis to new heights in their practice. The music will contour individual poses and the arc of the class.

2 Chances to Experience...
Tingly Yoga Highs and String Instruments Plucking Your Senses LIVE
with Aarona, Hannah, and Isabel!

 
GET COZY AND WARM...

Kula Yoga in Tribeca THIS FRIDAY, December 3, 4:30pm, $18
(newbies, 3 classes for $30 option!)

YogaWorks Soho THIS TUESDAY, December 7, 6-7:15pm, $22 drop-in, (newbies $30 for 2 weeks! This is a members studio, equipped with fancy showers and hot sauna!)

 
Join Aarona Pichinson and Hannah Thiem this Friday, and add Isabel Castellvi (together they are Copal Acoustic) to the mix this Tuesday for a deep and soulful yoga music experience. Hannah will play live violin and Isabel on live Cello as they weave it into a layered backdrop of moody electronic soundscapes. Aarona will guide you into an aligning flow of rhythmic sequences, stretched out breaths, and sweaty drops. You'll experience a divine sensory yoga practice! Bring a friend, bring your water, and indulge this Friday afternoon at one of the best studios in the city!

Normal class rates apply. Suggested donation of $5 or more to the musicians! Plus their CDs will be available!

Check us out to learn more:
www.hannahthiem.com
www.copalmusic.com
www.yogaofnourishment.com

Watch and Listen:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teXezAY8cHk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45nddMxB5Ps
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mqajzgi0p0U
http://copal.bandcamp.com/

THIS FRIDAY - JUNE 11^th 
7:45-9:45 pm

Join us for the Grand Opening of the new YogaWorks Soho!
   'a sensory-loaded, heart expanding, creatively spicy yogic experience'

FRIDAY * JUNE 12, 2009 * 7-9PM
459 Broadway at Grand Street in SoHo
Join Aarona Pichinson for a sweetly sweaty yogic experience flooded with intention, creative sequencing, aligning flow, & live top-notch musical nectars. DJ Derek Beres will spin original world electronic beats with Tbird on flute/vocals, Matt Kilmer on frame drum, & Tom Rossi on 26-string African kora/vocals! Combined with Aarona's nurturing guidance, you will experience a breath-filled yoga class rich with freedom, strength & grace. This is a strong movement & sound-healing meditation open to all levels!
Proceeds go to the The Soho Partnership as a way of supporting the Soho community!
"Our mission is to enable New York City's homeless men & women to re-enter the
workforce & achieve long-term economic self-sufficiency."
Our Theme: "NEW BEGINNINGS"
Come with your intentions ready and sweat 'em out on the mat!
$25 in advance for YogaWorks Members
$35 in advance for Non-Members
$45 at the door

A fun, sweet, yogic experience, flooded with intentional breathing, creative sequencing, aligning flow, & top notch live musical nectars!



WHEN: SATURDAY ~ OCTOBER 18, 2008 ~ 3:30-5:30PM
WHERE: Reebok Sports Club
160 Columbus Ave. (corner of 67th Street)
INVESTMENT: $35 for event & day retreat at Reebok!(free for Reebok members)
It's been a few months since our last gathering & we are thrilled to be back!  This month's 'Yoga Soundscape' will be an extra treat. Feast on the sounds of DJ Sascha with an ecclectic mix of funky electronic beats & sultry hip hop treats. Combined with Aarona's nurturing guidance, you will experience a breath-filled yoga class rich with aligning freedom & sweaty creative flows.  Finally, you'll be smothered by a sound healing ritual with Laraaji & crew for a heart expanding Savasana. Expect a sacred & strengthening movement-sound-meditation! After, stick around & enjoy Reeboks many pleasures - swim in the lap pool, steep in the sauna or steam room, take a dance class, use the gym, shower & soak, BE fabulous!

A fun, sweet, yogic experience, flooded with intentional breathing,
creative sequencing, aligning flow, & top notch live musical nectars!

WHEN: Friday, May 23, 2008 ~ 7-9pm
Gallery viewing: 9-10pm
* Bring your own mat! *
WHERE:Chapel of Sacred Mirrors (CoSm)
542 West 27th St., 4th floor
(between 10th & 11th ave in Chelsea)
INVESTMENT:  $20 - for an epic yoga-sound-spirit filled experience
* Arrive on time & please RSVP to insure your spot! *
This month's 'Yoga Soundscape' will finally be blessed with a Goddess on the decks- CoSm's  resident DJ, Alien Ambassador(aka Marisa Scirocco).  Her sounds are bassy, downtempo grooves with a latin & middle eastern flare! Combined withAarona's nurturing guidance, you will experience a breath-filled yoga class rich with aligning freedom & sweaty creative flows.  Finally, you'll be smothered by a sound healing ritual for Savasana with Emery & crew, sure to blast open your heart & mind. Expect a sacred & strengthening movement-sound-meditation!

A fun, sweet, yogic experience, flooded with intentional breathing,
creative sequencing, aligning flow, & top notch live musical nectars!



WHEN: Friday ~ April 18, 2008 ~ 8-10pm Yoga Soundscape class
10-11pm dancing with more DJ Haj, tea & fruit!
*  Please bring some fruit to share!
* Arrive early to insure your spot!
* RSVP and let us know you're on board!
WHERE:Atmananda Yoga Studio
324 Lafayette, 7th floor (Bleecker & Houston)
INVESTMENT:  $20 - for an epic yoga-sound-spirit filled experience
It's Spring, and it's time to fly. Journey into the many layers of your body & expose your exquisite self.  This month's 'Yoga Soundscape' will be blessed with the talent & magic of  Nyxyss - a creative collaboration between New York's ubiquitous undergroundDJ Haj (Sub Swara, Freek Factory) & violinist extraordinaire,Hannah Thiem (Copal, Village Underground). Their sounds are lush & compelling, exploring the more melodic aspects of dub step, idm & leftfield hip hop. Their sets are deftly crafted with an expansive sense of journey. Combined withAarona's guidance, you will experience a breath-filled yoga class rich with aligning freedom & sweaty creative flows offering a sacred space for intention & courage to be wed. Expect a deep, infectious & evocative movement sound meditation. Stick around afterwards for some dancing, tea & fruit. And invite the curious!