I've been part of a successful song circle (15 years 2nd Friday of each month) in Reno NV USA. We use the Rise Up Singing songbook, though people are welcome to bring handouts for songs not in the book. Each month we are at a different volunteer home; we usually attract about 40-60 people each month. Each person gets a numbered name tag; when that number comes up, the person calls the tune. We have several musicians. After all the numbers have been called we go into what for many is the best part of the evening, a free-form, stream of consciouness jam wherein someone will start a song and everyone joins in. This selection will then prompt another, usually related, song. It's also a place for the musicians to hold forth a bit. So we have melded session and singing in a successful formaula. We even encourage percussion (usually light, though we have enjoyed a near drum circle atmosphere at times). Egos checked at the door. Doug Saum