Phoenix · November 21 Singers & prospective leaders needed
Lift & Learn PodsFar Western District

November 21, 2026 · Phoenix, Arizona

Come sing with us
in Phoenix.

Sing, learn, and connect in a relaxed, judgment-free environment at the Lift & Learn Leadership Bootcamp. Singers of every experience level and prospective Pod Leaders are welcome.

Free to attend. Come as a singer to learn and take part. You can participate without volunteering to teach.

Singers make the bootcamp work. Your voice helps turn a musical idea into something the whole group can hear, try, and learn from.

What is Lift & Learn?

The program, explained

What is
Lift & Learn?

Small groups of singers, guided by a Pod Leader, learning musical skills by singing together.

Whether you’re finding your voice, building on years of experience, or fine-tuning advanced skills, Lift & Learn gives you a welcoming space to ask questions, experiment, make mistakes, and grow—without pressure or judgment.

Past participants have shared how Lift & Learn helped them grow more confident and build friendships with fellow singers.

Lift & Learn participants singing together in a small group.
Singers gathered around a facilitator during a Lift & Learn session. A facilitator working with a small group of Lift & Learn singers.
  1. Hear the idea.

    Listen to a demonstration or explore one musical skill, such as a phrase, interval, or chord.

  2. Try it together.

    Sing in a small group, ask questions, and use coaching to make one manageable adjustment.

  3. Hear your progress.

    Sing it again, listen for the difference, and carry what you learn into your own singing.

Two ways to take part

Bring your voice.
Find your next step.

Our biggest need · Singers

Come to sing and learn.

Take part in live demonstrations and small-group learning. Work on your own singing skills while prospective Pod Leaders practice guiding a group.

  • Sing, listen, and try musical ideas with others.
  • Receive coaching and experience how a pod works.
  • Meet singers who care about learning together.

November 21 program · 1–4 p.m.

Tenor · Lead · Baritone · Bass

I want to sing on Nov. 21

Also needed · Prospective Pod Leaders

Help other singers grow.

We’re looking for musical knowledge, teaching ability, and a patient, welcoming approach. Practice guiding a small group and receive feedback on your teaching.

  • Share a skill you can explain clearly.
  • Make space for every singer to contribute.
  • Explore leading, co-leading, or helping teach.

Prospective Pod Leaders · 10 a.m.–noon
Program · 1–4 p.m.

I’m interested in Pod Leadership

Take the next step

Get in touch.

Ask about attending the November 21 bootcamp or becoming a Pod Leader.

Alex Baskin

Manager of Education & Retention
Far Western District, Barbershop Harmony Society

membership@farwesterndistrict.org

Before you decide

Your questions,
answered.

Is the Leadership Bootcamp only for future Pod Leaders?

No. We need singers who want to sing and learn, as well as prospective Pod Leaders. You can participate as a singer without volunteering to lead or teach.

What will I do as a singer?

Participate in singing, demonstrations, coaching, and hands-on small-group learning. Work on your own singing skills while prospective Pod Leaders practice guiding the group.

What makes someone a good prospective Pod Leader?

Musical knowledge, an ability to help others understand, and a patient, welcoming approach. Relevant experience may include directing, section leading, teaching, coaching, chorus or quartet singing, or informally helping others learn.

Where is it, and what is the schedule?

The bootcamp takes place on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at Desert Christian Fellowship, 1445 W Northern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85021. Get directions.

  • Prospective Pod Leaders: 10 a.m.–noon
  • Lunch on your own: noon–1 p.m.
  • Program: 1–4 p.m.

All times are local to Phoenix (MST).

View the event flyer

What does it cost, and how do I attend?

It’s free to attend. Contact the program coordinator about attending. Include whether you want to sing in the program or explore Pod Leadership.

Can I inquire if I’m outside the Arizona Division?

Yes. Contact the program coordinator about attending. Include your chapter or location and whether you want to participate as a singer or explore Pod Leadership.

Does expressing interest register me?

No. An inquiry starts a conversation about the next steps. It does not register you for November 21, commit your chapter to a pod, or confirm selection as a Pod Leader.

Can I explore leading if I cannot come on November 21?

Yes. Interest in leading a pod does not require attendance at this bootcamp. Contact the program coordinator about future preparation opportunities and include your musical or teaching background.

How do pods fit into chapter life?

Pods offer another space for practical musical learning, questions, and connection. They complement chapter rehearsals and coaching. Establishing a local pod is coordinated with the relevant chapter leadership.

Thinking about a pod for your chapter?

Ask how Lift & Learn could support your singers and their musical growth.

Discuss chapter interest