Neo, different song circles have different customs (e.g., do you go round the circle one at a time or do you jump in when moved to do so). The Magic Word, as in so much related to music, is: LISTEN. Are people singing songs with choruses that everybody joins in on? Are they focusing on bringing new songs to the group or on treasured favorites? Do they use a particular book? Are there instrumentalists who join in with an accompaniment, or does the circle allow each person to "perform"?. Does one person seem to be jumping in more than others? (Try not to be that person.) Do people request songs from others when it's their turn? If you are planning to sing at a new circle, it would probably be a good idea to have several songs ready: one with a chorus, one you like to sing yourself, one everyone is likely to know, one that may be new, etc., so you can pick what's most appropriate.

But don't get too hung up on etiquette. Just listen, appreciate everybody's contribution, and have fun singing -- that's what it's all about.

Aloha,
Mark (who really misses song circles)