Discover the various workshops below and meet the artists and musicians who will be giving these masterclasses.
Kaïa Kater – intermediate clawhammer banjo
We will learn some new melodic banjo tunes, focusing on phrasing and intricate drop-thumb techniques. Depending on class interest, we can also learn a song or two and chat about how to back yourself up on banjo as a singer. (www.kaiakater.com)
Anna Massie – guitar flat-picking (advanced)
Anna will give a guitar melody flat-picking workshop for more advanced players who already have the basics and want to develop those skills. Equally at home as an accompanist or melody player, Anna Massie is one of the trad world’s foremost guitarists. As well as being a skilled multi-instrumentalist renowned for her work with Blazin’ Fiddles and RANT, she also presents BBC Radio Scotland’s award-winning flagship trad music programme, Travelling Folk. (www.annamassie.com)
Laura Cortese – American Folk Singing
What makes folk singing different than choral singing, pop singing or classical singing? Laura will share what inspires her as a folk singer and interpreter of traditional and original songs in the English language. She will teach two songs and possible harmonies for those songs. This workshop will be taught entirely by ear. We will experiment with authentic interpretation, articulation and harmony singing. Laura’s goal is to help all singers sing with more confidence and groove. (www.thisislauracortese.com)
Nic Gareis – Appalachian Flatfooting (for movers of all experience)
Flatfooting is a solo form of improvised percussive dance originating in the Appalachian mountains of what some people call the United States, with sonic and gestural connections to West African, Indigenous, and Western European dance. Using the toe, heel, and ball of the foot to strike and slide across the floor, flatfooting articulates the rhythms of old time fiddle and banjo music. Wear smooth-soled comfortable shoes with a low or no heel for this class. (www.nicgareiss.com)
Dirk Fiddle Cajun & Appalachian Fiddle
Learn a tune from each of these traditions and what makes the styles unique/. Dirk Powell is a master of both Cajun and Appalachian fiddle traditions, known for his authentic and soulful playing. His workshop offers a rare opportunity to learn from a musician deeply rooted in these rich musical landscapes (www.dirkpowell.org)