Chester, Connecticut · One night a month to sing your heart open
Once a month, the Grove fills with the sound of voices rising together. Come join The OMies for an evening of kirtan — and leave a little lighter than you arrived.
What is kirtan?
Kirtan is the simple, ancient practice of singing together. Rooted in the Bhakti Yoga tradition, it unfolds as call-and-response: a voice offers a line, and the room sings it back. There's nothing to memorize, no words to get right, and absolutely no experience required. It's less a performance to watch than a moment to step into — a kind of musical meditation where the only instrument that matters is your own voice.
You don't have to consider yourself a singer. You just have to be willing to make a joyful sound. Many people arrive unsure and leave grinning, a little teary, and already asking when the next one is.
Who are The OMies?
The OMies are a southeastern-Connecticut kirtan band born out of a weekly singing practice that grew into something much bigger — original songs, joyful gatherings, and a real sense of community. The group brings together Megan Mulrine and Justine Wheeler on harmonium, vocals, and kartals, Rebecca Pepitone on guitar, and Kevin Gallagher on percussion.
Their gatherings are warm, welcoming, and refreshingly unpretentious. They love pulling friends and first-timers into the music, because the whole spirit of the OMies is that no one is just an audience member — everyone in the room is part of the song.
What to expect
A relaxed, all-are-welcome atmosphere — bring yourself exactly as you are.
Call-and-response chanting led by live music, easy to follow from the very first note.
A chance to slow down, breathe, connect, and feel part of something bigger.
A community of kind people who simply like to gather and sing.
Come as you are, sit on the floor or a cushion, sing loudly or quietly hum along — there's no wrong way to be here.
Event details
📍 Where: The Grove · 19 Cedar Lake Road, Chester, CT 06412
🗓️ When: [Recurring day — e.g., the first Friday of every month] at [time]
🎟️ Suggested donation: Sliding scale, day of event — cash or Venmo (@GroveCT). No one is ever turned away; give what feels right.
⏰ Please arrive about 15 minutes early so we can settle in and begin together.
🌿 Space is limited — please register in advance.
What to bring: a water bottle, a cushion or blanket if you like to sit comfortably, and an open heart. That's it.
Save your spot
Whether you're a longtime bhakti soul or you've never chanted a note in your life, there's a place for your voice here.
Reserve your spot for this month's kirtan: OMIESQuestions? Reach out at theomieskirtan@gmail.com or follow along at @theomieskirtan.
Come sing with us. We can't wait to share the night with you.