(THIS INFO IS FOR THE 2023 EVENT. INFO FOR 2024 WILL BE POSTED IN FEB.)
Fiddle
INTERMEDIATE IRISH FIDDLE A (Gerry O’Connor)
The bowing and articulation of bow patterns in the playing of jigs and other familiar dance rhythms introduced in the early part of the class will provide the basis for a systematic approach to a generic playing of Irish fiddle music suitable for intermediate/advanced fiddlers. This will enable the student to identify some repetitive patterns of bowing which, although non-specific, will aid the student in understanding the non-random activity of bow movement in Irish fiddle playing. Audio and selective video recording is encouraged. While some experience in learning by ear would be an advantage, a positive approach to attempting to learn by watching and listening is essential. The notation of the workshop tunes with some typical bowing motifs indicated will be forwarded in .pdf format by email after the class. (Class limit: 30)
INTERMEDIATE IRISH FIDDLE B (Andrew Finn Magill)
As intermediate players you’ve built a little repertoire and mastered some basic ornaments. In this class we will work on phrasing and stylizing your playing with those things we term ‘lilt,’ ‘lift,’ and ‘drive’ by looking at specific bowings, ornaments and fingerings. We will also look at the notion of ‘style’ and some of the techniques the great fiddlers before us used. For those who read music, I will bring a few fiddle transcriptions, but this class will be first and foremost an ear-training class. We will learn one or two rare hornpipes, fiddle-friendly reels (think G minor) 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 Carroll)
This advanced fiddle class will work on good bowing and ornamentation, and we’ll tackle interesting and challenging tunes. We’ll learn some new tunes and brush up on some old ones, and we’ll even learn a ‘Liz tune’ or two. A relaxed pace will be the order of the day as we delve into all the elements of Irish fiddling. (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 (Alasdair White)
In this class we’ll mainly cover tunes from the rich Gaelic traditions of the Highlands and North West coast of Scotland and the stylistic means to play them, focusing on grace notes and bowed articulation to give your playing authenticity and swing. Particular attention will be paid to the tunes and idioms from ‘puirt a’ beul’ music and the piping tradition, music perhaps seldom heard very widely. We’ll also talk about the history and background of the tunes and discuss other regional musical styles of Scotland. Teaching will be primarily by ear but sheet music for some of the tunes covered will be available during classes. All sheet music will be provided by the end of the camp. The reason for this distinction is that it will allow us greater flexibility and spontaneity within the class. If we’re enjoying a particular type of tune we can maybe look at another similar one, for example, rather than sticking to a rigid curriculum the whole time. It will be very useful to you to have some kind of audio recorder (be it your phone or a dictaphone) for future reference. (Class limit: 30)
CAPE BRETON FIDDLE (Jenna Moynihan)
In this class, we’ll look at what makes Cape Breton music different from other fiddle styles. We’ll talk a lot about bowing and how this gives the fiddle style its ‘accent,’ as well as common left-hand embellishments that you’ll hear in the style. Listening to recordings will also be a part of the class. We’ll use this as part of our ear training to identify common stylistic features and apply them in our own music. The class will be taught mostly by ear and we’ll talk about ways to improve your ear training. Sheet music will be provided for reference at the end of the week. We’ll learn jigs and reels, and march, strathspey & reel sets, as the class desires. (Class limit: 25)
FIDDLE FOR COMPLETE BEGINNERS (Kiana June Weber)
Learn the fiddle from scratch in a week! This class offers an introduction to playing Irish traditional music on the fiddle for complete beginners. You will learn how to hold the fiddle, good bow-hold, left-hand position, notation and the basic scales. We will learn some simple tunes by note, or by ear if you are up for the challenge! Please bring along a recording device. (Class limit: 20)
FIDDLE TECHNIQUE A (Kiana June Weber)
This will be a ‘how to sound like a fiddler’ technique class. It’s for those who already play fiddle at an intermediate to advanced level, but want to learn techniques to take their playing and sound to the next level. Throughout the week we will focus on specific fiddle techniques that are part of the recipe for authentic style: lilt (aka swing), turns, double-stops, slides, cuts, grace notes, tone, and ‘crunch’. We will also learn when and how to implement these, how to troubleshoot, and how to practice for success. Expect to leave this week with some really cool sounds you can actually use right away. Bring a recording device, and all your questions – class will be tailored to the needs of the students. (Class limit: 20)
FIDDLE TECHNIQUE B (Jenna Moynihan)
In this class we’ll explore the instrument beyond tune-learning, zooming in with a holistic focus on both understanding & investigating the mechanics and nuances involved in playing the fiddle. Unlocking the next level of your playing can often be inhibited by some technical challenges, and adjustments to technique, posture, bowing (and so much more!) can help you progress further. We’ll discuss tone, bowing, and how we might bring a tune to life and find our own voice within these traditions. This class will be geared towards intermediate players and students are encouraged to bring their personal questions and queries to the class. (Class limit: 20)
Flute and Tinwhistle
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)
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.
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 (Robin Bullock)
This 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, ‘Canine’ tuning (CGCGCD) and ‘Werewolf’ tuning (CGDGAD) will be used extensively to open up the instrument’s full sonic potential. A good time will be had by all. 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.
FLATPICKING CELTIC GUITAR (Robin Bullock)
This intermediate-level class will focus on making traditional Celtic tunes come to life, flatpicked on steel-string guitar. We’ll discuss technique, lift, ornamentation, and other facets of making Irish, Scottish and Breton tunes sound authentic on guitar, as well as alternate tunings, capo techniques and methods for picking up tunes by ear. Sheet music and tab will be available if required. Students should bring a capo and an audio recorder is recommended.
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.
ACCOMPANY TUNES ON THE FLY &
THE NASHVILLE NUMBER SYSTEM (Will MacMorran)
In this intermediate/advanced level class, we will strengthen our knowledge of the guitar’s fretboard while building an array of right-hand rhythmic possibilities. We will also learn to use the Nashville Number System as it pertains to chording traditional music. Using DADGAD tuning for counter-melodies, syncopation, and reharmonization, we will explore ways to be an invaluable addition to any musical setting. By the end of class, we will have explored techniques to accompany tunes on the fly, and given new life to the music you already play.
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 (Martin Howley)
This will be foundational exploration of Irish music on the mandolin. We will gain a fundamental understanding of the fretboard, posture & picking mechanics, and explore a range of techniques and rudiments such as scales, picking excercises, and the establishment of good practice. We will learn tune types and rhythms, working on a balanced selection of basic easy-to-learn tunes. We will work with notation and playing by ear throughout the week. Bring a recording device!
MANDOLIN II (Martin Howley)
This class will focus on honing our playing style, our technical mastery and our overall advanced techniques. We will work an advanced repertoire tailored to the class, and develop these tunes fully, exploring phrasing, ornamentation, variation, harmonic/chordal underpinnings. We will discuss and disseminate particular examples of Irish musicians and how to develop one’s own personal style while exploring and paying homage to other artists. Bring a recording device!
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 ornamen- tation 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.
BUTTON ACCORDION (John Whelan)
In this class for B/C accordion, a specific tune will be assigned to the class each day, and learned by ear. Attention will be paid to posture in general, fingering technique, hand position, air button control, the understanding/internalizing of a tune, phrasing and ornamentation. Different playing styles will be demonstrated and discussed, along with listening recommendations for representative box-players. Students will also be encouraged to showcase their progress to their classmates. Classes will be taught by ear. Students are encouraged to bring audio recorders, pen and paper, and to ask as many questions as possible. Videotaping is not permitted.
PLAYING IN SESSIONS (John Whelan)
Playing in sessions can be a daunting task sometimes, especially if you are venturing into a new one when traveling around, so being prepared is a good way to keep your mind and nerves at ease. I will focus on what are the best session tunes played around the country. Session etiquette is very important not just for you but for everyone – when to play and when not to play. Learn to use your experience to learn new tunes without interfering with others in the session and gain more confidence. We will also focus on how to improve your current community’s session to get more enjoyment from it and to understand that you, along with your peers, are all equally responsible for sustaining a vibrant musical experience for each other and your community especially in a public session. (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)
Everyone is welcome at The Big Sing, where we will sing a range of beautiful Celtic songs plus a few wild cards thrown in, and arrange them together to create the powerful group sound for which this class is known. No skills in reading music are required. No singing skills either! This is a safe musical haven for all ages and abilities: a love of song is the only prerequisite. If you love harmony singing, love belting out a song or poem, or if you are shy about performing but want to improve, then this is the class for you! It’s an enjoyable and informal way to broaden your repertoire and add your voice to the group. Please come ready to say hello; share a song or poem (or even tell us a joke!) that you enjoy. Lyric sheets will be provided. Bring a recording device if you have one. (No class limit)
STORYTELLING (Máirtín de Cógáin)
Máirtín gets no more joy out of life than the telling of stories. In this class he will use urban legends to demonstrate and teach two main ideas of the Yarnspinner: that of the Mask of the Storyteller and The Game between listener and teller, which are crucial elements to anyone telling stories at any level. He will also impart how to make a story your own, along with discussions about important nuances in storytelling such as presentation and cadence of speech. You may be asked to take the stage during class if you are so inclined. There are no skill levels required or any other prerequisites needed for this class. (No class limit)
WHO’S WHO IN IRISH MYTHOLOGY (Máirtín de Cógáin)
Did you ever wonder what the Fhiannaíocht was all about? What about the Rúraíocht? Do you find understanding which one came first a challenge? Or do you, like so many, find these stories inaccessible because you simply get lost in the Irish names? We understand, but help is on the way. Join Máirtín in this survey of Irish mythology in which he will delve into works like The Ulster Cycle, The Fenian Cycle, the 12th century writings, the International Traveling Folktale, and maybe even a few of the lesser known Fairy stories, in his own inimitable and highly entertaining style. Together, we will bring the main players of these tales to life and discuss what will make them so compelling. You’ll not only come away with a better understanding of Irish mythology’s ‘hits’, but you’ll also be in a position to better explore these seminal works of Irish folklore on your own, worry free. There are no skill levels required or any other prerequisites needed for this class. (No class limit)
SINGING SCOTTISH SONGS (Ed Miller)
Each day will focus on two or three songs, learning them by hearing and singing them over several times. We’ll also listen to recordings by a variety of singers to hear how they present, express and decorate a song. Songbooks will be available and the language and social context of the songs will be explained. Emphasis will be on learning a selection of traditional and more recent songs aurally and orally by repetition. (No class limit)
SCOTLAND IN SONG (Ed Miller)
The songs of the Scottish folk revival of the past 50 years cover everything from politics and social change to urban renewal and personal experience. In this class, we’ll listen to, talk about and SING serious and humorous songs by Adam McNaughtan, Ewan MacColl, Alan Reid, Hamish Henderson, Robin Laing, Andy M. Stewart, Dougie MacLean and others, all of whom are keeping the Scottish song repertoire refreshed, vibrant and relevant. Songbooks will be available. (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 SONG (Cathie Ryan)
This course will feature songs in both Irish and English that Cathie has collected through the years and new ones she has recently discovered, including love songs, newly-composed songs written in the old style, children’s songs, humorous songs, historic ballads, singalongs, Christmas songs and more. We will focus on the oral tradition of sean nós (old style) singing and utilize those rudiments to deepen and develop our own individual singing styles. We will learn the songs aurally so bring audio recorders with you to class. And please bring a beloved song you’d like to share with the group as we will sing for each other and learn from each other. (No class limit)
SINGING FOR A LIFETIME (Cathie Ryan)
Even the most casual traditional singer needs to sing regularly to sing well. If you plan on singing for a lifetime, vocal training will help give you a voice you can depend on. In this class I will teach some of the vocal techniques I have learned and practiced in my 45 years of singing, including breathing exercises to help support the tone and strength of your voice, vocal exercises to help you develop your range, simple vocal embellishments and stylistic techniques, how to take care of your voice, the rudiments and importance of a vocal practice, tips on how to deal with performance anxiety, and how to use a microphone. By the end of the week, you will have a basic understanding of vocal training and the tools to sing with more confidence and freedom for many years to come!
Percussion and Dance
BODHRÁN I (Anna Colliton)
In this class, we’ll cover basic position and technique for playing the bodhrán, focusing on developing speed, comfort, and versatility, and with the long-term goal of creating skilled and knowledgable 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, fills, and tonal variation. We’ll cover other types of traditional tunes, time-permitting and/or 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. Written notation will be used in class but we’ll leave time at the end of class for students wishing to make audio or video recordings for reference. (Class limit: 25)
BODHRÁN II (Anna Colliton)
In this class, we’ll learn to further enhance our playing with tonal variation, alternate sticking 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 should already be comfortable accompanying both jigs and reels and be able to play with consistent timing, and are strongly encouraged to bring questions, favorite recordings, and topics of discussion to class – we’re going to have fun! Written notation will be used in class but we’ll leave time at the end of class for students wishing to make audio or video recordings for reference. (Class limit: 25)
SEAN NÓS DANCE (Siobhan Butler)
Sean-nós Dance is an improvised and low impact dance form, with close links to the rhythms and melodies of Irish traditional music. This class will be a complete introduction into the common movements and phrases found in sean-nós dance. With its emphasis on music structure and rhythm, it is the ideal class for musicians to better understand the rhythms and melodies of Irish traditional music and dance. Open to beginners or folks with some dance experience. Please bring water bottle and notebook or phone.
INTRODUCTION TO IRISH DANCE (Siobhan Butler)
‘Irish Dance’ is an umbrella term that represents the many styles of dancing from Ireland. Students will learn the stylistic differences between most types of Irish dance in a mixed format of presentation and practical. This class will provide historical contexts of Irish dance and music, teaching basic movements of the different styles, and helping musicians develop practical skills for accompanying dancers. Ideal for absolute beginners, please bring notebooks and/or phones.
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.
We are so excited for the return of the Children’s Program! This year, our theme is UNDER THE SEA!! Welcome to the Swannanoa Sea-Pod, where we explore the depths, biodiversity and magical legends of the briny deep. Together, our seafaring crew will set sail for an underwater world of arts & crafts, music and games. We’ll even meet some magical mer-folk, and read stories of sea creatures real and imagined. It’ll be another unforgettable summer of friendship, water balloon fights, scavenger hunts, and discovery… and we hope you’ll join us! With the help of a talented music teacher, we will 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 and slip-n-slide madness; we’ll definitely have movie night, messy games, and other old favorites. Please bring at least one swimsuit with you, for cooling-down activities like running in the sprinkler. Get ready for a week celebrating curiosity, exploration and wacky fun! 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 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.