KQED's Forum The Delightful Experience of Collective Effervescence
Dec 31, 2025
Zoe Ellis, Director of Music Ministries at Glide Memorial Church, and Shira Gabriel, a psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, explore the phenomenon of collective effervescence. They dive into how shared musical experiences, rituals, and laughter foster community and connection. Gabriel highlights the differences between in-person and virtual experiences, while Ellis shares how music can create unity. They also touch on the emotional impact of collective moments, both uplifting and occasionally dark, offering a comprehensive view of what brings us together.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Two Pillars Of Collective Effervescence
- Collective effervescence combines feeling connected to others with a sense that something sacred or transcendent is happening.
- Shira Gabriel links this dual experience to higher well-being and meaning beyond routine life.
Opening Song That Invites Everyone
- Zoe Ellis led a community song at Glide called "This Joy That I Have" to open worship and connect people.
- The repetitive, easy-to-sing lines invite newcomers to join and share the feeling.
Be Present To Enter The Moment
- Put your phone away and let yourself be fully in the moment to boost chances of experiencing collective effervescence.
- Stop worrying about embarrassment and allow yourself to participate without self-consciousness.