What is POTLACH?

POTLACH stands for "Gathering of Campfire Enthusiasts at Chemistry" (VŠCHT), the etymology of the word potlach refers to tramp gatherings. We are united by our love for music and nature. Simply meet, play, and sing without pressure. We play as everyone can. And with whatever instrument one has. Some have sheet music, some have tabs, some have a songbook, some just listen. We usually gather in different compositions and numbers. Everyone is welcome, with or without an instrument. You don't need to be a virtuoso; it's enough if you enjoy it. So don't be afraid and come ;)

Songbooks

Applications

Most Played Songs

Campfire Classics

Miki Ryvola, Fešáci, Brontosauři, Pacifik, Rangers, Dobeš, Matuška, Žalman, Kryl, Nohavica, Nedvědi, Čechomor...

Folk and Popular Music

Asonance, Plíhal, Redl, Nerez, Nezmaři, Saze, Traband, YOYO Band, Buty, Ebeni, Chinaski, Mig 21, Ivan Hlas, Poutníci, Olympic...

When a good group gathers, we may also play classical music adaptations, covers, improvisations, or whatever comes to mind... Didn't find anything interesting? Come with something new, we will be happy!

FAQ

General

What does playing look like?

We meet in the classroom at school in very different numbers. Most of the time, we play and sing. Songs are chosen either in turn or by request.

Who is POTLACH for?

For all students, staff, and friends of VŠCHT Prague, regardless of age, academic degree, or shoe size.

Aren't you competing with Uni-Art?

No. Uni-Art, ChemChór, or ChemOrchestr have different goals, especially towards public performance. Most of us are introverts who play just for fun ;)

Musical Instruments

What musical instrument can I bring?

Any! Guitars, violin, flute, mandolin, ukulele, harmonica, clarinet, accordion, bass, piano, organ, drum, egg shaker, cajon, tambourine, or even a comb...

Should I bring a musical instrument even if I don't know how to play it well/can't play right now?

Sure! You can lend it to someone or quietly accompany and learn from others.

Do you use amplification?

Only what someone brings (like an amp for the bass). Microphones are usually not used around campfires.-)

Concerns

I'm shy to sing/play in front of people.

Sing/play when you want, don't force yourself! Feel completely free, you can just listen. And in a crowd, a lot gets lost.

I'm not good enough at playing/singing.

You might just think so. But it doesn't matter. No one is born learned. Play as you like or follow others and learn from them.

I'm an introvert, this might not be for me.

Many of us are introverts. That's why we started guitar sessions in the first place. So don't be afraid and come join us!

I can't play or sing.

No problem. Bring tea or snacks, a songbook, or just help flip pages for the guitarists and quietly soak in the atmosphere.

I'm scared of people.

Feel free to sit somewhere in the corner and pretend they're not there.

Can I come if...

Can I come just to listen?

Yes, but don't disturb others by chatting during the session.

Can I come even if I'm not a student?

Of course! Age or academic status doesn't matter.

Can I come if I haven't been in scouting or attended camps?

Sure! We play so that even those who haven't experienced such events can get a partial taste of it.

Food and Drinks

Can I bring some food?

Absolutely! It's best to bring snacks. And if you bake something, nobody will complain either.

Can I bring alcohol?

We're on academic grounds, so overindulgence isn't the best idea.

Can I bring sausages?

If you're eating them raw... Unfortunately, we usually don't have a fire.

Every last Wednesday of the month at Uhelná

I want invitations via email

A Few Rules

1. Health

If you're feeling unwell or something is coming on, come next time. Be considerate of others.

2. Drugs

Leave alcohol, cigarettes, or any other intoxicants at home. Don't show up smelling like them either.

3. Silence

You can chat outside or a bit further away, but please don't disturb the session by talking.

4. Rules

Follow the school rules so we can keep playing next time.

CONTACTS

  • Mail
  • Facebook
  • Teams
  • Youtube
  • Blogger

About POTLACH

The name POTLACH at VŠCHT Praha is an acronym for POsezení Táborákových LAbužníků na CHemii, and also references the form of tramping potlaches (as named by Czech trampers in the first half of the 20th century for their musical gatherings in settlements along the Sázava, Berounka, and other rivers). POTLACH was founded by Honza Kohout, based on the inspiration from Kytarohraní, a session held in Prague, started in 2013.

POTLACH is for introverts, people who might not be confident in their musical skills but love to sing or play, professionals who don't mind not being the center of attention, and people connected with the school who enjoy the campfire music atmosphere. POTLACH started because there wasn't a similar event at the school. The goal isn't performing, but creating a shared space for people who enjoy playing. We meet at the school without a fire ;), but in warm months, we might even head into nature.