This will be updated to 2025 in the spring.
Fiddle
INTERMEDIATE IRISH FIDDLE A (Colin Farrell)
In this class for intermediate players we will cover the basics of Irish fiddle technique: bowing, ornamentation and tempo, rhythm and tone. We will be learning new tunes, taught simply, phrase by phrase, before demonstrating how to incorporate various techniques into the tune. We will also take some standard session tunes and look at adding variations and different ornamentations. We will also be listening to recordings of fiddle players and studying the different styles and techniques. Tunes will be taught by ear, but sheet music will be provided for those who need it. (Class limit: 30)
INTERMEDIATE IRISH FIDDLE B (Andrew Finn Magill)
As intermediate players you should have a repertoire of commonly played session tunes and a basic understanding of the most commonly used ornaments. In this class we will strive to take your playing to the next level by working on phrasing and stylizing your playing with those things we term ‘lilt,’ ‘lift,’ and ‘drive.’ We will do this by looking at specific bowings, ornaments and fingerings. We will also look at the notion of ‘style’ and some of the techniques the fiddlers before us used. To that end, we will listen to a lot of the great fiddle players, which is one of the most fun parts of the class! We will compare and contrast and really dig into how diverse Irish fiddling can be. Having said that, we will focus on establishing a firm foundation of fundamentals. I have lots of exercises and ideas as to how to achieve this. For those of us who read music, I will bring a few fiddle transcriptions, but this class will be first and foremost an ear-training class. We might learn a hornpipe or two, fiddle-friendly reels and maybe even something more exotic like a slide or a set dance. The goal of the week is to inspire, inspire, inspire, while giving you the tools you need to practice more efficiently and meet your musical goals. All music will be recorded before camp and notated for all who wish it. (Class limit: 30)
ADVANCED IRISH FIDDLE A (Liz Knowles)
The advanced fiddle class is for fiddlers who already know and use Irish fiddle techniques, bowings and ornamentation and can comfortably play at speed in any session. This class will be less about technique and more about style and developing your own voice in the tunes while staying ‘close to the well’ of the tradition, its players, past and present. We will explore deeper aspects of style like gesture and tone, look at various approaches to improvisation, and hopefully inspire a more expansive exploration and practice of this music. Please bring a recorder and your questions! (Class limit: 30)
ADVANCED IRISH FIDDLE B (Brian Conway)
In this course for advanced players we will cover the use of phrasing, ornamentation and bowing in traditional Irish music. We’ll discuss a ‘how-to- practice’ method, how to approach session playing, and how to learn tunes from recorded media. We will learn a few tunes, but the emphasis will be on advanced technique and the use of variations as well as answering any questions you may have. The tunes taught in this class will be, for the most part, traditional Irish tunes rather than newer compositions and Brian is open to teaching tunes requested by the students. Sheet music will be provided for those who need it. Please bring an audio recorder. (Class limit: 30)
INTERMEDIATE SCOTTISH FIDDLE (Mari Black)
Are you searching for your authentic Scottish voice? Looking for more sparkle in your playing? Want to get grooving with a real Scottish fiddle accent? This class is a fun, yet intensive odyssey that delves into creating a believable stylistic Scottish feel. We’ll learn many traditional tunes: driving reels and jigs, stately marches, mighty strathspeys (the signature Scottish tune type!), and haunting slow airs. We’ll discover how to capture the stylistic essence of each tune type through good choices in bowing, ornamentation, phrasing, and rhythmic groove. We’ll polish up your dance feel so you know how to get everyone’s feet tapping, and we’ll put together complete ‘MSR’ sets that you could use for a traditional Scottish performance or competition. All tunes will be taught by ear, so definitely bring your audio recorders, but don’t worry – notated sheet music for all tunes we learn will be given out at the end of the week to help you keep practicing once you get home! (Class limit: 30)
ADVANCED SCOTTISH FIDDLE (Jenna Moynihan)
In this class, we’ll delve deep into the Scottish tradition and learn lots of great tunes: reels, strathspeys, jigs, marches, airs. We’ll explore using left-hand embellishments & bowing to authentically bring these melodies to life. Particular attention will be given to unlocking the groove & swing in the music. This class is geared towards advanced players, who are quick to learn by ear & comfortable playing in all keys. All tunes will be taught by ear, and students are strongly encouraged to bring a recording device. (Class limit: 30)
FIDDLE FOR COMPLETE BEGINNERS (Caitlin Warbelow)
Learning to play the fiddle might seem daunting, but believe it or not, it’s possible to learn the basics (as well as a tune or two!) in a week. That’s what we’ll do in this class, starting with a foundation of great left-hand and bow grip technique, and moving on to finesseing your sound production, string crossings, and intonation. By the end of the week, you’ll be able to play basic scales as well as a simple polka. Please make sure to bring a fiddle and bow in playable condition and a shoulder rest.
FIDDLE TECHNIQUE (Caitlin Warbelow)
Oftentimes, technique becomes a limiting factor on the journey to fiddle mastery. This often-neglected topic is well worth studying if you want to improve your sound quality, increase your speed while keeping a clean tone, expand your technical ability, and prevent unnecessary aches and pains. This class is for those who already play fiddle at an intermediate level, but wish to improve their technical skills. Over the week, we’ll put together a toolbox of technical skills (bowings and bow technique, ornamentation and left-hand technique, string crossings, a discussion of lilt, basic music theory, posture, troubleshooting strategies for common issues, etc.) that you can use in pursuit of good tone and ease of playing. While discussing technique, we’ll learn a few tunes by ear, so please bring a device to record tunes each day. The class will be customized to the needs of the students, so feel free to bring questions of interest! All tunes will be taught by ear; some handouts will be distributed as well. (Class limit: 20)
Flute and Tinwhistle
IRISH FLUTE FOR COMPLETE BEGINNERS (Josh Dukes)
This class is designed for those who have just started playing Irish music on the flute. It will cover the basics of ornamentation and phrasing. Some time will be spent on tone production and the mechanics of playing a flute. Players coming from the tinwhistle or from another flute discipline will find this class particularly useful. The class is taught by ear but sheet music is available for those that need it.
INTRO TO IRISH FLUTE A (Kevin Crawford)
This class offers an introduction to playing traditional Irish music on the flute for students who already have some experience with the basics of the instrument and can play some tunes at a slow pace with little or no ornamentation. We’ll discuss a ‘how-to-practice’ method and how to approach session playing. We’ll learn a few tunes but the emphasis will be on establishing foundations for you to take home and apply throughout your own learning as well as answering any questions you may have. Students will learn how to ornament tunes with rolls, cuts and tongue-ing. Tunes will be taught by ear so bring a D flute and a recording device. ABC notation will be provided for those who need it.
INTRO TO IRISH FLUTE B (John Skelton)
This class is designed for those who have just started playing Irish music on the flute. It will cover the basics of ornamentation and phrasing. Some time will be spent on tone production and the mechanics of playing a flute. Players coming from the tinwhistle or from another flute discipline will find this class particularly useful. The class is taught by ear but sheet music is available for those that need it.
INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED FLUTE A (Kevin Crawford)
This class is for students who are skilled enough to play tunes in a variety of rhythms (jigs, reels, etc.), with good technique and at a reasonable tempo. This course will expand on the skills and topics introduced in the intro class, with more attention given to ornamentation, breathing, style and repertoire, while continuing to emphasize rhythm and phrasing in the music. Tunes will be taught by ear so bring a D flute and a recording device. ABC notation will be provided for those who need it.
INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED FLUTE B (John Skelton)
This class covers all of the aspects of Irish flute playing – ornamentation, phrasing, breathing and rhythm. Some time will also be spent on repertoire and in developing a personal style. We will learn a few tunes and then ‘de-construct’ those tunes to help us understand different styles. Students should be proficient in playing tunes at a moderate tempo. The class is taught by ear but sheet music is available for those that need it.
INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED FLUTE C (Nuala Kennedy)
Nuala grew up playing traditional Irish music in Dundalk, Co. Louth and has spent many years living and playing music in Edinburgh, Scotland. She is also influenced by the music of her friend and mentor Cathal McConnell. In this workshop, she will explore some of the repertoire from these three sources, looking at a variety of tune types, ornamentation, and discussing how to make this music your own. Students will play in a range of keys. Written music is not provided, however students are free to notate, and are encouraged to bring a recording device.
TINWHISTLE FOR COMPLETE BEGINNERS (Billy Jackson)
This class is for students with no prior experience of the tinwhistle. Instruction will start with the most fundamental techniques and a few very simple tunes. By the end of the week, you’ll be well on your way to playing. Please bring along a recording device and a tinwhistle in the key of D.
INTRO TO IRISH TINWHISTLE A (Kathleen Conneely)
This class is for students who already have some experience with the basics of the instrument, and can play some tunes at a slow pace with little or no ornamentation. Beginners will learn how to ornament tunes with rolls, cuts and tongueing. Emphasis will be placed on rhythm and phrasing. Tunes will be taught aurally, so bring a D whistle and a recording device. Sheet music will be provided for those who need it.
INTRO TO IRISH TINWHISTLE B (Seán Gavin)
This class will focus on the fundamentals of the instrument. Seán will teach simple traditional tunes, and use those tunes as a vehicle for learning other foundational techniques such as embouchure, finger position, intonation, rhythm, phrasing, and basic ornamentation. Students can also expect some discussion and analysis of great players from the past and prese nt. Participants will need a tin whistle in the key of D.
INTERMED./ADVANCED IRISH TINWHISTLE A (Kathleen Conneely)
This class is for students who are skilled enough to play tunes in a variety of rhythms (jigs, reels, etc), with good technique and at a reasonable tempo. This course will expand on the skills and topics introduced in the beginners class, with more attention given to ornamentation, breathing, style and repertoire, while continuing to emphasize rhythm and phrasing in the music. Tunes will be taught aurally, so bring a D whistle and recording device. Sheet music will be provided for those who need it.
INTERMED./ADVANCED IRISH TINWHISTLE B (Seán Gavin)
In this class, Seán will teach traditional tunes with a focus on musical thinking. Students can expect to learn ornamentation (cuts, taps, rolls and more) while also covering articulation on a variety of Irish tune types. While students can expect to expand their repertoire, the emphasis of the class will be on the intangibles such as rhythm, phrasing, and the placement of breaths. There will also be some discussion and analysis of regional styles, as well great players of the past and present. Participants will need a tin whistle in the key of D.
Harp
INTRO TO CELTIC HARP (Billy Jackson & Gráinne Hambly)
The beginning student will be introduced to the fundamentals of this grand and ancient instrument, including basic harp technique (e.g. hand position, posture, exercises). Arrangements of simple Scottish and Irish melodies will be taught by ear, with written music provided as back-up. Billy and Gráinne will each lead the class at various times during the week. In order for classes to commence on time, students are kindly requested to be tuned and prepared well in advance, and to ensure their instruments are in good working order. Students are also encouraged to bring a recording device, music stand, and spare strings.
INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED CELTIC HARP (Billy Jackson & Gráinne Hambly)
Class topics will include arranging, ornamentation, and accompanying voice and other instruments. A selection of Scottish and Irish material will be taught at a more advanced level and individual interests of participants will be taken into account. Billy and Gráinne will each lead the class at various times during the week. In order for classes to commence on time, students are kindly requested to be tuned and prepared well in advance, and to ensure their instruments are in good working order. Students are also encouraged to bring a recording device, music stand, and spare strings.
Fretted Instruments
CELTIC FINGERSTYLE GUITAR I (Robin Bullock)
This intermediate-and-up class will explore the world of possibilities presented by traditional Irish, Scottish and Breton repertoire arranged for solo fingerstyle guitar. Some tablature will be offered, but students will also create their own individual settings of airs, jigs, reels and the 18th-century harp music of Turlough O’Carolan, sharing arrangement ideas in an informal, hands-on environment. Alternate tunings such as DADGAD, CGCGCD (‘Canine’ tuning) , and CGDGAD (‘Werewolf’ tuning) will be used extensively to open up the instrument’s full sonic potential. A good time will be had by all. A capo will be essential and an audio recorder is recommended.
CELTIC FINGERSTYLE GUITAR II (Robin Bullock)
This class will cover similar material to Celtic Fingerstyle I but move at a somewhat faster pace and dive more deeply into the subtleties of solo guitar arrangement (moving bass lines, internal harmonies, chord substitution, creation of medleys, etc.). We’ll work with more advanced material including jigs and reels played at or near conventional dance speed, develop authentic-sounding melodic ornamentation, and discuss the challenges inherent in adapting music for pipes, fiddle, harp, and other traditional Celtic instruments to guitar. A capo will be essential and an audio recorder is recommended.
SESSION GUITAR ACCOMPANIMENT I (Will MacMorran)
This class is for newer guitarists and those new to Irish traditional music. Students will learn chord shapes and patterns for DADGAD guitar tuning and strumming patterns for jigs, reels and other melodies. We will focus on common keys within Irish traditional music, how to be creative with your own playing, and also discuss the ‘ins and outs’ of playing with others. An audio recorder is recommended, and chord charts will be provided.
SESSION GUITAR ACCOMPANIMENT II (John Doyle)
In this class for advanced students, players will further master different strumming techniques to a variety of types of tunes, add dynamics to their playing through syncopation and emphasis, confident chord substitutions, fingerpicking techniques, tips and tricks for playing in sessions, how to work out the right chords for tunes and alternate tunings for the guitar. Students should be familiar and comfortable with strumming, have a good working knowledge of Irish music and of music theory. Chord sheets in Dropped-D tuning will be provided. Students should bring a capo.
DADGAD SONG ACCOMPANIMENT (Eamon O’Leary)
This class will focus on approaches to song accompaniment using the unique DADGAD tuning. We’ll start with an introduction to the tuning, so no previous experience is necessary, and then we’ll explore the different rhythmic and harmonic possibilities that it affords. Particular emphasis will be placed on chord voicings and rhythm-hand techniques. Participants need not be singers and most of what we cover will also be applicable to dance tune accompaniment.
DROP-D GUITAR ACCOMPANIMENT (Will MacMorran)
This class is for newer guitarists and those new to Irish traditional music. Students will learn chord shapes and patterns for Drop-D guitar tuning (DADGBE) and strumming patterns for jigs, reels and other melodies. We will focus on common keys within Irish traditional music, how to be creative with your own playing, and also discuss the ‘ins and outs’ of playing with others. An audio recorder is recommended, and chord charts will be provided.
CELTIC BOUZOUKI (John Doyle)
In this class we will explore the first basic chord structures for backing tunes and songs, rhythmic patterns in Celtic music, and then explore further into counter-melodies, hammer-ons, and other techniques used to make bouzouki accompaniment dynamic and unique. Students should bring a bouzouki, pick, capo and recording device.
MANDOLIN I (Shane Farrell)
Dive into the essentials of Irish music on the mandolin. You’ll gain a solid understanding of the fretboard, posture, and picking mechanics. as well as techniques such as scales, picking exercises, and effective practice methods. We’ll delve into tune types and rhythms, focusing on easy-to-learn tunes. In the beginner stage, we’ll focus on mastering basic melodies and foundational techniques. The emphasis will be on efficient picking, rhythmic accents, and essential topics like setup, rhythm, and tone. Join us for a concise journey into the world of Irish music, blending skill and artistry.
MANDOLIN II (Shane Farrell)
Take your mandolin skills to new heights in this intermediate/advanced course, building on ‘Mandolin I’s foundations. We’ll focus on detailed ornamentation and crafting unique variations. We’ll meticulously explore exciting ornamentation techniques such as triplets, hammer-ons, pull-offs, double stops, and chords. Combine these with the intricacies of adding melodic and rhythmic variations, empowering you to craft your unique interpretation of each tune. This class hones your playing style, technical mastery, and advanced techniques. We’ll work on a personalized repertoire, fully developing tunes with emphasis on phrasing, ornamentation, and harmonic elements. We’ll discuss notable Irish musicians to aid in developing your unique style.
TENOR BANJO (Eamon O’Leary)
In this course for banjoists of all levels, Eamon will cover right- and left-hand technique, ornamentation, tune settings, and different banjo styles. Tunes that are particularly well-suited to the banjo will also be incorporated into the class. Students are advised to bring a recording device.
Reeds
UILLEANN PIPES (Cillian Vallely)
This class will focus on tunes from the standard piping repertoire and their associated piping techniques. Through the teaching of new tunes, we will examine standard piping elements such as rolls, crans and triplets, and also look at how to get the best sound from the instrument in terms of tone and tuning. We will spend some time looking at the various styles of playing and how to develop the music from the basic melody through the use of ornamentation and melodic and rhythmic variation. We will also look at regulator accompaniment for those with full sets and we will try to cover the various tune types associated with traditional music. A device to record the classes will be essential as the class will be taught by ear and it is expected that a lot of what you learn at the class will be of use between classes. For those who require it, musical notation can be made available at the end to take home. Intermediate and advanced players will benefit the most from this class.
PLAYING IN SESSIONS (Josh Dukes)
Participating in musical sessions can be a challenging endeavor, particularly when exploring new sessions while on the go. Every area has a different repertoire, feel, and culture that has to be identified and navigated quickly so all can enjoy. It is crucial to recognize the significance of session etiquette, not only for personal benefit but for the collective experience. Knowing when to actively engage in playing and when to observe is a fundamental aspect of fostering a harmonious session environment. In this class we will focus on proper session etiquette, choosing appropriate tunes and overall musicality when playing with others. (No class limit)
ANGLO CONCERTINA (Gráinne Hambly)
This class is intended for students playing Anglo C/G concertinas, and is open to all levels, from beginners with some basic playing experience upwards. It is not suitable for complete beginners, however, and all participants should be familiar with their instrument (location of the notes, etc). Basics of technique and style (e.g. bellows control, phrasing, alternative fingerings) will be covered, as well as ornamentation in the context of Irish traditional dance tunes. Participants are encouraged to bring an audio recorder. Written music will also be provided.
Song and Folklore
THE BIG SING (Nuala Kennedy)
Welcome to The Big Sing, where we will sing a range of beautiful traditional songs from Scotland and Ireland, with a few wild cards thrown in. We will arrange them together to create the powerful group sound for which this class is known. Suitable for all lovers of song; all age and abilities are welcome. No skills in reading music are required.This class is an enjoyable and informal way to broaden your repertoire and add your voice to the group. Please come ready share a song or poem that you enjoy. Lyric sheets will be provided. Bring a recording device if you have one. (No class limit)
THE BLOODY WARS ARE BLAST AND BLAWN (Allan Carr)
In this class we will focus on singing traditional Scots songs and ballads about the turbulent experience of war over the centuries. We’ll discuss how to interpret these songs with your own authentic voice, learning by ear, with the aid of provided lyric sheets and recordings. The Scots language used and contexts will be explained. We will also listen to recordings by a variety of notable Scots singers, illustrating the social and historical contexts of the songs. No skill levels required, a recording device is highly recommended. (No class limit)
LUVE SANGS (Allan Carr)
In this class we will be singing Scottish songs and ballads of love in many forms, some bawdy, some beautiful, with an emphasis on the rich North East Doric tradition. We’ll discuss how to interpret these songs with your own authentic voice, learning by ear, with the aid of provided lyric sheets and recordings, and the Scots language used and contexts will be explained. We will also listen to recordings by a variety of notable Scots singers, discuss the social aspects and historical context of the songs. No skill levels required, a recording device is highly recommended. (No class limit)
THE SONGS OF CONNACHT (Dave Curley)
In this class we will be singing songs from the western province of Connacht – Counties Galway, Mayo, Leitrim, Sligo and Roscommon. Connacht has a rich tradition of singing and songwriting and its songs preserve so much of its history. We will explore the context of these songs, learning by ear and lyrics will be provided. We will also listen to recordings of notable singers from this region as we go. (No class limit)
WORKING SONGS (Dave Curley)
We’ll look at working songs and songs that chronicle the journey of the Irish people looking for a better chance at life. Most laboured and toiled, many didn’t survive and some made it to the height of power all over the world. Mines, railroads, skyscrapers, ditches, sailors, politics, military, servants, – the Irish have left a strong legacy in the physical and political landscapes of many countries. We will learn by ear with the aid of lyrics. We will also listen to recordings of notable singers in this category. (No class limit)
IRISH TRADITIONAL & NEWLY COMPOSED SONG (Cathie Ryan)
In this course, we will be singing songs in both Irish and English which Cathie learned from family and from years of searching for great old traditional and newly composed songs to sing and share. We will learn ‘by ear,’ so bring audio recorders with you to class. And please bring a song you’d like to share as we will sing for and learn from each other. Joy! (No class limit)
VOCAL TECHNIQUE (Cathie Ryan)
Joan Baez, who is still singing beautifully at 82, uses regular vocal exercises and the support of a vocal coach to keep her voice strong and resonant. As she says, “At this stage, it constantly takes more tricks to hold it this way.” This class is designed to teach you some of the tricks and techniques that will help you sing well for a lifetime, including breathing exercises to help support the strength and tone of your voice, vocal exercises to help you develop your range and expression, simple vocal embellishments and stylistic techniques, how to take care of your voice, the rudiments of a singing practice, tips on how to be more comfortable when singing in front of an audience, and how to get the most out of using a microphone. By the end of the week, you will have a basic understanding of vocal training and the tools to sing with more freedom and confidence. Class size is limited to allow one-to-one work with each student. Please sign up early to assure a place!
Percussion and Dance
BODHRÁN I (Anna Colliton)
In Bodhrán I, we’ll cover basic position and technique for playing the bodhrán, with a focus on developing speed, comfort, and versatility. The long-term goal of this class is to give students the skills to become skilled, knowledgeable, and flexible players who are able to accompany in whatever style they choose! Students will learn several ‘no-fail’ approaches to accompanying jigs and reels, and begin to enhance their playing with ornamentation and tonal variation. Time permitting, we’ll cover other types of traditional tunes, according to the wishes of the class. There will be something for everyone, so students are strongly encouraged to bring questions, favorite recordings, and topics of discussion to class! Total beginners are welcome, as are more experienced players wanting a refresher. We’ll use written notation in class but leave time every day for students wishing to make audio or video recordings for reference. (Class limit: 25)
BODHRÁN II (Anna Colliton)
In Bodhrán II, we’ll learn to further enhance our playing with tonal variation, alternate stick-ing patterns, syncopated rhythms, and ornamentation (double and/or single-ended triplets and rolls), and begin to craft fully-formed parts to accompany traditional melodies. We’ll deepen our understanding of jigs and reels, and develop approaches to other types of traditional tunes according to the wishes of the class. And, we’ll learn how to break out of any rhythmical ruts we may be stuck in! Students who sign up for this class should already be comfortable accompanying both jigs and reels, and able to play at session speed with consistent timing. Feel free to bring questions, favorite recordings, and topics of discussion to class – we’re going to have fun! We’ll use written notation in class but leave time every day for students wishing to make audio or video recordings for reference. (Class limit: 25)
CONNEMARA SEAN NÓS DANCE (Danielle Enblom)
Sean-nós dance is an improvised, battering-style step dance characterized by a loose upper body, and steps close to the floor. The class will introduce students to the style of sean-nós from Connemara, specifically the movement/sound vocabulary (taps, shuffles, stamps) and approaches to improvisation (beat-based, groove-based, 8-bar steps) used by Connemara dancers. Students are expected to be able to march to a beat if enrolling in this class. This is a perfect class for musicians who would like to learn to dance, as sean-nós dancers are equal parts percussionist and dancer! Please wear leather-soled shoes- no sneakers, no taps or fiberglass tips. Men’s oxford style is the most popular.
SOCIAL AND SET DANCING (Danielle Enblom)
Social dancing has a rich history in Ireland, with documentation dating back to the 16th century as part of calendar rituals. In present day Ireland, each region has its own preferred dances and style. This class will develop confident dancers who are fluent in the language of social dancing both on and off the dance floor. Students will receive practical movement coaching as well as an overview of social dance as a ‘form’ in the landscape of Irish dancing. Each class will include a combination of 2-hand ‘kitchen’ dances and ‘sets’ (dances done in a square of 8 people). Special attention will be given to the common movements done in most sets, to develop confident and fluid dancers. Please wear leather-soled shoes. Rubber soles/sneakers stick to the floor and hinder the movements. (No class limit)
CHILDREN’S PROGRAM
We offer a full-day program taught by Melissa Hyman, for children ages 6-12. Children must have turned 6 by July 1st to participate. No exceptions please. Bathroom independence is a non-negotiable prerequisite. Maximum age is 12 on July 1. Some older children (age 12-16) may be able to work as junior counselors. Please email Melissa ASAP if interested in a junior counselor position, even if you’ve discussed it with her before: melissa.hyman@gmail.com. We are no longer able to provide evening childcare.
This year, our Children’s Program theme is SUPERHERO ACADEMY!! Welcome to the Swannanoa Superhero Academy, where we train aspiring champions of the downtrodden in all the most important heroic skills: speaking up for what’s right, flying, breathing underwater, x-ray vision, super strength and more. Get ready to don your cape and zoom into arts & crafts, music and games that tap into our amazing superpowers of creativity and fun. We’ll also learn about real-life heroes through the ages, who inspire us to step up and be the greatest versions of ourselves. It’ll be another unforgettable summer of friendship, silliness and discovery… and we hope you’ll join us! With the help of a talented music teacher and our beloved drama instructor Miss Mary, we’ll write our own original song and perform for the whole Gathering at the student showcase on Friday. We’ll also have visits throughout the week from other Gathering staff, who will teach and perform just for our kids. Weather permitting, we’ll continue our traditions of shaving cream hairdos, swimming in the river, playing in the sprinkler and slip-n-slide madness; we’ll definitely have movie night, messy games, and other favorites. Please bring at least one swimsuit with you. There will be a $30 art/craft materials fee for this class, payable to Melissa on arrival.
Other Events
SLOW JAMS & SINGING
After supper each night, students have the opportunity to participate in slow jams and singing sessions. At the slow jams, common dance tunes are played at a speed that is accessible even to beginners. The singing sessions are a chance to share your voice and songs.
POTLUCK SESSIONS
In addition to the regular class sessions, each afternoon several staff members will offer Potluck Sessions, serving up a different menu of one-hour workshops.
LUTHIERS EXHIBIT
Throughout the week violin maker Gordon Gross will be on hand for fiddle setups and minor repairs.