THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILABLE FOR REGISTRATION
All levels are welcome in this comprehensive presentation of the squeezebox. Basic music notation will be reviewed, and along with fundamentals of treble and bass techniques this class will include the history, care and maintenance of the accordion. We will also spend time learning various bellows techniques that will assist in your phrasing and keep you playing smoothly. A myriad of musical styles—including polka, tango and more--will be played.
SPRING: Tuesdays, 7:00-8:00 PM
Instructor: George Balderose
Learning the pipes begins with a quiet instrument called the practice chanter, which is a reed instrument with the same number of finger holes as the chanter of the bagpipes. This enables you to quietly learn the correct fingering of pipe music without blowing hard and making a lot of terrible noises. This course will focus on correct fingering technique and will cover the rudiments of music, such as tone, tuning, rhythm and expression. To purchase a practice chanter and instructional book contact the instructor at info@bagpiping.org
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
This course is primarily concerned with playing tunes on the Great Highland bagpipe, with attention to clear technique, tuning, rhythm and expression, and the expansion of solo and pipe band repertoire.
Ukulele I
SPRING: Tuesdays: 6:30-8:00 PM
Instructor: Dan Davisson
**The instructor will also charge a $5 material fee.
This class is for those who are new to the ukulele, including those who may have had trouble learning to play other stringed instruments like the guitar or banjo. No previous experience is expected, or required.
We will begin with the most basic elements, such as how to tune and hold a uke, then over the course of the four weeks we will learn a variety of strumming techniques and patterns, basic chords, and even begin exploration of several forms of melody playing. The songs we will use come from a variety of styles.
Bring your uke and tuner to the first class.
Advanced Beginning Ukulele
SPRING: Tuesdays: 8:15-9:45 PM
Instructor: Dan Davisson
**The instructor will also charge a $5 material fee
We will begin where Ukulele I leaves off, so this is a good continuation for those who take the first workshop, or for those who have some experience playing the ukulele. You should be comfortable basic elements, such as how to tune and hold a uke, then over the course of the four weeks we will build upon your knowledge and continue to explore several forms of melody playing. You will learn new and more difficult chords than in Ukulele I, have an introduction to chord melody in relatively easy songs (ukulele solos) and play the same songs in different chords. The songs we will use come from a variety of styles. _________________________________________________________________________
Banjo I: Five String
SPRING: Mondays, 6:30-8:00 PM Instructor: Harold Yeager
The clawhammer style of banjo is a traditional Appalachian mountain style sometimes called frailing or rapping. Learn the basic right hand technique while chording songs and playing tunes by ear. Some tablature will also be available. Students will begin to learn tunes from listening to tapes as well.
This is a great class for those who have taken Banjo I: Five String and want to continue banjo instruction, or for those who have had some experience playing the banjo on their own. __________________________________________________________________________
Banjo II: Bluegrass
SPRING: Mondays, 6:30-8:00 PM Instructor: Ron Morelli
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
This ensemble class is for fiddlers, banjo players, guitarists, mandolinists and string bass players who want to learn the basics of string band performance and have structured practice time with other musicians. Students should be proficient on their instruments and be able to learn tunes by ear. The course will focus on both contra dance repertoire and old-time tunes. If your instrument is not on the list above, please check with the instructors.
SPRING: Mondays, 6:30-8:00 PM
Instructor: Janet and Mike Reing
If you can already play some tunes on the fiddle, banjo, guitar or mandolin and are interested in playing some old time tunes with other people but aren’t quite sure that you are ready to jump into a community or festival jam session yet, then this class may be for you. The primary activity in this class will be the communal playing of common old time session tunes slowly and at a more moderate pace. Although not an instructional course per se, participants will learn some tunes by ear, be provided with the appropriate chords for accompaniment and be introduced to the rhythms, nuances and elements of style that make up the specific genre we call “Old Time Music”. Members of the class will learn “session etiquette” and what works and doesn’t work in an Old Time Jam Session. We will focus on the keys of D, G and A. Participants should be able to play at least three simple tunes by ear, however slowly, continuously (from the beginning to the end of the tune without stopping). The above noted instruments are welcome. Please contact Calliope if you want to bring a different instrument.
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
This class is for those who are just getting started with the hammered dulcimer. The class will cover how to tune the dulcimer, basic hammer techniques, and how to find your way around the dulcimer. Tunes will be from the Irish, Scottish, Old-Time and New England traditions. _________________________________________________________________________
Fiddle I
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
For class you must bring a fiddle (violin) and a bow in playable condition. If you are in doubt, we recommend that you have it checked by a reputable dealer. This course will be taught by ear with some written study aids provided. Students are strongly urged to bring a recording device and something to write with. The instructor will also provide a practice cd ( for an extra $5 ) that has all the tunes covered in Fiddle I and Fiddle I Repertoire.
Note to violinists: Often students with many years of violin training are interested in learning the subtleties of the fiddling style and wish to join these classes. I welcome the participation, but I will always maintain a pace that suits the beginners who have only just started.
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
Guitar I: Repertoire
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
This is a great follow up to the 8 week Guitar I course. Perfect to continue your education in playing the guitar and get you ready to move on to style-specific guitar classes such as Guitar II: Survey of Folk Guitar Styles.
***Please be aware there is a $5 MATERIALS FEE payable to the instructor at the first class.***
Students must have basic knowledge of the guitar. Different material will be presented than in the beginning Guitar I.
SPRING: Mondays, 6:30-8:00 PM
Instructor: Ken Lamison
An interactive ensemble class for Intermediate and Experienced players. Students will learn the essential elements of blues song construction, and develop improvised solos in the blues tradition. Music reading is not a necessity and recording is encouraged.
This course is designed to bridge the gap between experienced beginners and intermediate players. It may also be useful for those guitarists who used to play more regularly and are getting back into the swing of it, or for players who are looking for new ideas, songs, and tunes. Drawing from blues, old time, celtic, and folk hits of the '60's, a variety of right and left hand techniques will be introduced that are guaranteed to open up your playing. All students must be able to tune their own guitar, know the first position chords and be able to play ten 3-chord songs and/or tunes without breaking rhythym. Use of a capo is necessary for some material. Use of tape recorders and note-taking is encouraged. __________________________________________________________________________
Zen Guitar
Spring: Mondays, 8:15-9:45 PM
Instructor: Ken Lamison
The teaching is divided into five stages, each signifying progression along the path of Zen Guitar:
1) Beginner's Mind 2) Practice 3) Responsibility 4) Barrier 5) The Way of Zen Guitar
From this class, each student will take away something different. Those already skilled in music can benefit from Zen training. Many guitarists with talent who seem to lack direction, who can't articulate a reason for doing what they do. The Way of Zen Guitar gives those players a sense of purpose. Follow the samurai maxim that says, "From one thing, know ten thousand things." Music can teach you everything you need to know.
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
This class introduces the basic technique and good habits of learning the diatonic harmonica. Students will need to bring a diatonic harmonica in the key of C. Students will work on simple melodies and be introduced to different playing methods such as tongue blocking and playing in first and second position.
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
This class introduces basic left and right hand technique for all styles of mandolin, instrument care, tuning, and some simple tunes. Students will play slowly at first focusing on good tone and developing muscle memory in their fingers rather than speed. Music will be provided in tab and standard notation formats. __________________________________________________________________________
Mandolin II
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
Irish Mandolin
Spring:
Tuesdays, 6:30-8:00 PM
Instructor: Carol Palmer
This class is designed for intermediate and above mandolin players, or students who have taken Mandolin II. The focus will be on learning the different Irish dance rhythms, including jigs, reels, polkas and hornpipes, as well as adding ornamentation to give your tunes a distinctively Irish sound! Class material will be offered in both music notation and tablature.
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
Braided Tote Bag Use scrap wool fabric to make a lovely and practical braided tote bag. Learn to fold the fabric, braid it, and lace braids together to create a vibrant accent piece. Learn the basics of making a braided rug while making your unique tote bag. Purchase scrap wool from instructor, or recycle woven wool items to make the bag. Beginner kit is $25, or assemble your own kit.
Materials List: A. Beginner kit: Braidkin lacing needle #18 tapestry needle 5" - 6" straight hemostat or needle nose pliers 50' lacing cord rubber bands, clothespins, safety pins, small ruler, needlecase and sewing needle B. Other needed items: scissors, thread C. Optional: braiding stand, braid-aid folders (can rent from instructor) D. Fabric: About 2 yards assorted woven wool scraps, washed.
Week 1: Tote Bag pattern, how to fold strips and braid, making the first corner. Homework: Braid 5 rows. Week 2: Lacing the center line, and beyond. Color changes. Homework: Braid and lace 5 rows, and make a color change. Week 3: Lacing the sides; incorporating braided patterns such as diamonds and rick rack. Homework: Braid and lace 5 rows, putting a pattern in the braids. Week 4: Making the handles; finish by burying and fringing the 3 strands. Photos!
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
Hand embroidery is a folk art that has been practiced all over the world yet has changed relatively little since ancient times. Today, it is still a cherished technique for adding a personal "story" to all kinds of fabric items. In this class, we will cover the tools of the trade, six different embroidery stitches plus how to use a "stitch dictionary," methods for transferring your own designs onto fabric, and image resources both online and in print that will leave you itching to stitch! No previous sewing experience necessary.
Material List To Bring To Class:
- One 7" round embroidery hoop (plastic or wooden)
- A sharp sewing needle with a large eye
-A pair of small, sharp scissors
-A pencil
*The instructor will provide fabric for you and the embroidery floss for the first class meeting. __________________________________________________________________________
Beginning Afro-Latin Percussion
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
Learn the music and rhythm of Carnivale! This class will anchor you to the Afro-Latin style of percussion. Drumming on conga drums, as well using cow bells and other auxiliary percussion will be emphasized.
Beginners and advanced beginners are welcome. No experience is necessary.
The teacher will provide instruments during class. However, for students to get the most out of the class it is recommended to have at least one of the following instruments at home to practice with and/or to bring to class.
*Claves* highly recommended, rhythm sticks maracas conga djembe cow bell bongos Cuban, Dominican, or Puerto Rican Guiro.
SPRING: Tuesdays, 8:15-9:45 PM
Instructor: Charlie Anderson
The class is an introduction to Traditional ballads and ballad
singing. Explore the rich repertoire of Traditional ballads from Appalachia and the UK. Discover how they are best interpreted and performed. Attention will
be paid to traditional performance practices as well as suggestions on
how to present ballads to modern audiences. The class will focus on
sound recordings, as well as at least 2 live performances for each
class. Participants will prepare and perform ballads in a supportive
and small class environment. Class members will leave the class
having learned 2-4 traditional ballads. This class will meet at the instructor's home in Observatory Hill. (Address will be given upon registration). __________________________________________________________________________
Put Your Harmony Where Your Voice Is!
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
This course will teach students how to coordinate singing with their instrumental accompaniment. We will work on putting together lyrics and string accompaniment by first using simple familiar melodies and then developing song favorites of class members. There will be lots of individual attention as class members work on pieces of their own choosing.
Participants must have basic know how on playing his/her own instrument AND be familiar with basic chords and be able to play them on your instrument. __________________________________________________________________________
Irish Tin Whistle
SPRING: Tuesdays, 6:30-8:00 PM
Instructor: Charlie Anderson
Music Theory for Folk Musicians THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
Here's a class demystifying all those terms you hear musicians tossing around: keys, chords, scales, harmony, dissonance, etc. If you are a singer who wonders what to say when the guitar player asks you what key you want to sing in, this class will help. If you are a guitar player who wonders what to do when the singer changes keys on you, this class will help. Learn to sing what you play and play what you sing. We will use folk songs and the Kodaly music education techniques to get more comfortable with the structure behind melodies and harmony and the terms used to describe them. A great course for those who play instruments and for voice students with basic music skills.
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
Have you ever wanted to write a song? Are you stuck on music or lyrics and need time to work something out? This songwriting class will cover the basics of folk and pop songwriting, explore songwriting through simple exercises and new perspectives, and provide participants with an opportunity for collaboration and feedback from a community of fellow writers. Guest songwriters will be on hand. Proficiency with an
instrument is ideal. __________________________________________________________________________
International Folk Dance
THIS COURSE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILBLE FOR REGISTRATION
Join this introductory class and become a part of the rich traditions of folk style dancing from around the world! Plus, you can get some exercise in a casual atmosphere with or without a dance partner.
During session one, learn to dance in Southern Appalachian style. Old-timey mountain square dances were once common throughout the Appalachian region. Session two will concentrate on European Village dances including circle dances, sets, horas, Schottische and gypsy dance from Germany, Czechoslovakia, Poland, Sweden, Finland, Romania and Serbia. Enjoy Mexican waltzes in session three that can be performed with or without partners, lines, circles, waltz style stepping and more intricate foot patterns. Session four concentrates on Garland dancing which uses decorated arches/whoops, sticks, ribbons, hankies and decorated staves. Garland dancing can range from rustic dancing, feminine styles, festive showy performance styles, to dancing with crisp precision using varied dance props.