Collective Vocal Improvisation and Rhythm with Signs

An invitation to be part of an improvised choir, where we explore music, singing and body percussion as tools for collective expression and creation.

The activity, lead by singer Aixa Figini, is based on the Rhythm with Signs method, a sign language that allows to conduct real time improvisation in order to create musical compositions and sound landscapes in a creative and playful way.

The Rhythm with Signs starts as a language but it soon becomes a musical game where each participant is encouraged to explore their individual musical resources by sharing these with the group and experiencing collective and creative music making. It is a tool that allows to develop our listening, creativity, coordination, appraisal of diversity, understanding of the roles and responsibilities in a group, and the ability to embrace mistakes as creative opportunities.

During the workshop we practice voice, rhythm and body percussion games and exercises, and learn traditional songs and rhythms from around the world to widen the musical repertoire in our improvisations. These sessions offer a dynamic space where participants can nurture and explore their own musicality, embracing new elements and resources in their music making, while enjoying the experience of collaborative music creation.

Aixa Figini is an Argentine singer and musicologist, holding a degree in Music and Cultural Management from the Universities of Buenos Aires and London. In Argentina, she performed as a versatile vocalist across genres such as tango and Argentine folk music.

Fascinated by the creative potential of musical improvisation, she studied the Rhythm with Signs system developed by Argentine percussionist Santiago Vázquez. She is a certified music trainer with Musicians without Borders, specialising in community building through music.

Since 2018, she has been based in Lisbon, where she works as a musician and producer on various projects – including her own vocal improvisation ensemble, Circular.