Learn to Play

Learn to Play Mandolin – Session 3 – Tom Moran

Prerequisites:

As the title implies, there are no prerequisites to this class other than a mandolin and a desire to learn more about the instrument and how to play it.

Styles/tunes taught:

This class will begin with the mechanics of playing the mandolin, including concepts and exercises aimed at developing left and right hand techniques. Along the way we will also be learning some simple tunes and chords that will reinforce these ideas and allow you to begin developing your repertoire of melodies and songs.

Course objectives:

To provide a solid foundation for the study and practice of the mandolin.

Materials provided:

CD, Musical notation and tablature provided.

Learn to Play Fiddle – Session 3 – Catherine Graham

Prerequisites:

– Have playable fiddle, preferably with bow

– Have two arms with hands, or equivalent body parts

Styles/tunes taught:

These skills will be applicable to any style. My background is northern/Canadian old-time and Irish.

Course objective:

Found an old fiddle in your attic but have no idea how to play it? Need to get the kids started out right? Want to broaden your musical horizons? Join us! We’ll learn

– How to hold the fiddle & bow

– What the strings are, how to make them make sound, and what they’re supposed to sound like (tuning)

– (Optional) How to apologize to your neighbors for making the strings make sound

– Some techniques for participating in jam sessions even before you learn your first tune

– Some basics on how music works

Please note, this is not a tune-learning class. If you are ready to learn tunes, go sign up for Level 1 and have fun! 

Materials provided:

Links to YouTube videos covering key concepts & Paper handouts with key concepts

Learn to play Guitar – Session 3 – Carolyn Huguenin

Prerequisites: Basic understanding of the guitar, string names, and how to hold a pick would be preferred, but not required.

Materials Needed: Picks, tuner, strap, music stand. Super glue (when allowed to dry) can create artificial calluses on sore fingers, so you can keep playing! (adults only)

Styles/tunes taught: This class is designed for individuals interested in learning to accompany fiddle players. Additionally, it provides foundational knowledge for independent learning.

Course objective:  This course will cover the basic chords, rhythm, and three types of strum patterns that accompany fiddle playing.  We will touch on some theory about which chords go together to help you predict where you might go next when accompanying or jamming. Some homework will be given since chord changes must be practiced to improve change speed. By the end of class, you will be able to back-up fiddle tunes like Boil the Cabbage Down and Edelweiss.

I love all questions and will answer them to the best of my ability, and if I don’t know, I will find out! Please remember—while Fiddle Camp is definitely fun, it should also challenge you!

Materials provided:  Chord charts, chords for tunes, and other useful information will be provided in a booklet. *Materials and instruction may change based on the general needs of the class.