Cricklesingers Carol Concert
Please join us for our end of year concert! Cricklesingers have been working hard on new repertoire and skills to bring you a programme that will induce Christmas cheer!
See the event page for more details.
Cricklereaders December 2025 – Julia by Sandra Newman
The last book of the year is Julia by Sandra Newman. 1984 from Julia’s viewpoint. London, chief city of Airstrip One, the third most populous province of Oceania. It’s 1984 and Julia Worthing works as a mechanic fixing the novel-writing machines in the Fiction Department at the Ministry of Truth. Under the ideology of IngSoc and the rule of the Party and its leader Big Brother, Julia is a model citizen – cheerfully cynical, believing in nothing and caring not at all about politics. She knows how to survive in a world of constant surveillance, Thought Police, Newspeak, Doublethink, child spies and the black markets of the prole neighbourhoods. She’s very good at staying alive.
But Julia becomes intrigued by a colleague from the Records Department – a mid-level worker of the Outer Party called Winston Smith, she comes to realise that she’s losing her grip and can no longer safely navigate her world.
Read along at home with us (places in the group are on hold for now but may open up again in the new year.
Carols by Candlelight
This year’s Carols by Candlelight will take place on Sunday 15 December, 1700-1800. As usual, there will be mulled wine and mince pies and a chance to sing the classics with all the neighbours. Please download the songbook and bring along or view on your smart device. Helps save trees.
November’s Last Friday – Anjela Abelian & Andrea Rinciari
Anjela Abelian & Andrea Rinciari
Stripped-back jazz with a unique blend of jazz vocal and guitar drawing inspiration from the timeless collaboration of Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Pass. During this special evening Anjela Abelian, Camden’s very own jazz/contemporary singer and songwriter, collaborates with the virtuoso jazz guitarist Andrea Rinciari, they perform a carefully curated mix of jazz standards and originals. Anjela will be also introducing her recent single – “It’s So Much Fun”.
Anjela Abelian – Camden based jazz/contemporary singer and songwriter. Deeply rooted in jazz tradition, she loves the purity of the song form in every musical style and seamlessly fuses her musical journey with contemporary nuances. She mastered vocals with Speech Level Singing school, and under the guidance of such voice gurus as Anita Wardell and Dr. Voice.Anjela started refining her songwriting craft during the pandemic, when she found solace in an international online community of songwriters, and one of her songs, “Strawberries”, went to the semi-final of the International Songwriting Competition. The track “Strawberries” was later released and gained international acclaim with widespread radio plays across Europe and the US.
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5a6XSEFwJs Website: www.anjelaabelian.com Instagram @anjelaabelian
Andrea Rinciari, a dedicated full-time jazz guitarist, had the privilege of learning from the legendary Barry Harris, greatly influencing his playing. With two successful album releases, Andrea’s guitar style is uniquely shaped around the influences of piano players, making pianistic choices on the guitar. His inspiration comes from jazz icons such as Bud Powell, Tadd Dameron, Elmo Hope, Freddie Redd, and Barry Harris, as well as non-pianist greats like Charlie Parker, Sonny Rollins, Sonny Stitt, Fats Navarro, and Clifford Brown, resulting in a distinctive approach to bebop-straight ahead jazz.
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fDRV7-Hf2c
New! – Tantra Hatha Yoga at the Library
Tantra Hatha Yoga is a sacred, embodied practice that cultivates energetic awareness and transformation (i.e., the chakra system) through asana (physical postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation practices.
In this practice, you will be invited to slow down and guided on an internalised meditative journey, strengthening your physical body, purifying and balancing your energetic body, and liberating your mind.
In Jade’s classes you can expect a heart-centred, trauma informed and re-empowerment approach, cultivated through many years of supporting women who are living with trauma to heal and re-claim their lives. Jade’s yoga teaching is a creative expression, interwoven with yogic philosophy, reflexive poetry, and embodied practices and wisdom.
Jade’s aim is to support you to be in yoga and experience your true nature, loving stillness.
Suitable for everyone, all experience levels welcome! Head over to our Events page to book.
How Much Do you Love Our Coffee?
Imagine stepping into the cosy, aromatic haven of a community café nestled within the heart of Cricklewood. The scent of freshly ground coffee beans mingles with the sweet and spicy cakey aroomas, creating an irresistible invitation that beckons you to come closer. Now, picture yourself not just as a visitor, but as a volunteer barista, crafting these delightful experiences for your neighbours.
You might be seeking new ways to fill your days with purpose and joy. Volunteering as a barista offers the perfect blend of satisfaction and new skill development. Every cup of coffee you prepare becomes an opportunity to learn and grow, from mastering the art of creating the perfect espresso shot to frothing milk into a creamy, cloud-like consistency. The process is as rewarding as it is enjoyable, with each step providing a tangible sense of accomplishment.
But it’s not just about the coffee. It’s about the community. The café, located conveniently in the library, serves as a vibrant hub for Cricklewood’s residents. Here, you’ll meet people from all walks of life, each with their own story to share. You’ll find yourself building connections, one smile and one conversation at a time. The camaraderie among fellow volunteers and patrons alike fosters a sense of belonging and support that is truly heartwarming.
Imagine the satisfaction of seeing a regular’s face light up when you remember their favourite order, or the joy of a newcomer discovering their new go-to drink, thanks to your recommendation. These small moments of connection can brighten anyone’s day, including your own.
Full training will be given, and you can do this at your own pace. Please ask any barista for more details – they’ll be happy to advise, and to share what volunteering means to them. Alternatively, complete the volunteering form here and I’ll be in touch to discuss.