Welcome
Hi, I’m Ash (Ashley Rae).
I’m a musician and community song leader.
I work across genres like hip-hop, R&B, lofi, acoustic, and more, exploring voice as a tool for expression and creativity. I began in slam poetry, moved into rapping and music production, and have since expanded into acoustic songwriting and participatory music experiences. Currently, I’m training as a community song leader, deepening my ability to guide voices in group settings.
I share music in multiple forms: multi-genre beats and lyrical "bars" as Ashtral Projects, and acoustic, community-centered performances and song/sound circles as Ashley Rae. Through performances, workshops, and circles, I invite people to experience music not only as listeners, but as active participants. I bring a playful, low-pressure energy into the spaces I hold, offering permission to let go, be a little silly, and explore without needing to “get it right.” My work is especially for those who feel unsure, edgy, or disconnected from their voice.
At the heart of my work is a return to the voice, creative expression, and the freedom to play. Learn more about my background here.
Thanks for being here!
What I Offer
Song/Sound Circles
Community gatherings where we learn and explore songs, both originals and songs from the broader community singing world. I draw from a curated library of 50+ community songs I’ve learned from other song leaders and artists, and, based on the experience of the group, guide circles that may include simple chants, layered harmonies, multi-part rounds, and vocal improvisation. Everyone is encouraged to participate at their own level, and we always start with playful warm-ups and exercises to help open voices and lean into the space.
Workshops
Off the Dome: Freestyle Sessions- Guided experiences using different techniques to “rap off the dome,” honoring hip-hop culture. We explore multiple genres by practicing over a variety of beats, such as boom bap, drill, trap, R&B, soul, lofi, that encourages rapping, singing and spoken word. Participants learn tools to improvise, play with rhythm, sound, words, and how express themselves freely in a supportive environment.
Prose and Presence: Poetry Circle- Workshops focused entirely on words, where participants co-create and share poetry as a group. Sessions explore free writing, collaboration, and individual expression, holding space for each voice while building collective work.
Music Performances
Original music spanning hip-hop, R&B, spoken word, and acoustic styles, blending heartfelt lyrics, playful energy, and a full emotional spectrum. Performances invite listeners to connect, move, and experience music in an engaging and authentic way.