Fiddle Tunes: Melody and Backup
Instructor: Real Vocal String Quartet
Sun., September 12, 12:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m., $35.
Start out playing a traditional tune by ear, then explore ways to play backup, adding in chords and a bass line to go with it. Other techniques such as "chopping" will add to the mix. We can be a whole band with fiddles! If there's time we may work on a second tune or on ways to improvise. Recording devices recommended. Advanced beginners and intermediate.
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Fiddle Tunes: Adding Improvisation and Vocals
Instructor: Real Vocal String Quartet
Sun., September 12, 12:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m., $35.
Learn a traditional tune or two by ear, then add in chords, a bass line, and techniques like "chopping" to achieve a full band sound. Next, add in improvisation, whether by enhancing the melody or playing over chords. If time allows, we’ll explore playing rhythm backup on the fiddle while singing. Talk about being the whole band! Recording devices recommended. Intermediate to advanced.
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Scottish Fiddle I: The MSR (March, Strathspey, Reel) for Fiddlers
Instructor: Brandon Vance
Sat., October 30, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., $35 ($60 for both of this instructor’s workshops).
This workshop will cover some primary characteristics of the Scottish fiddle, including the Scots Snap, birls, and most importantly, the strathspey! We’ll explore both the piping and dance roots that influence Scottish fiddle music, with a goal of learning a proper “MSR” (march, strathspey, and a reel or two), so get in touch with your inner snap! For intermediate to advanced fiddlers. Music will be provided by request.
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Scottish Fiddle 2: The Reel Groove
Instructor: Brandon Vance
Sat., October 30, 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m., $35 ($60 for both of this instructor’s workshops).
Have you ever wanted to play more rhythmically and in a more relaxed manner? We’ll focus on the technical aspects of reel bowing and groove that are particular to West Highland and Shetland fiddling. Rethink the way you play a reel and get in touch with your inner groove! For experienced-beginner to advanced fiddlers. Music will be provided by request.
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Gypsy Jazz for Violin I
Instructor: Michael Gray
Sat., November 13, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., $35 ($60 for both of this instructor’s workshops).
Learn how to get around on a gypsy jazz tune or jazz standard and use your own strengths as you solo and improvise. We’ll cover the fiddle styles of Stéphane Grappelli and others, tone production, improvising melodic lines, and what to do when you get lost. All levels; ability to read chord charts helpful.
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Gypsy Jazz for Violin II
Instructor: Michael Gray
Sat., November 13, 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m., $35 ($60 for both of this instructor’s workshops).
Continuing the ideas explored in session I, we’ll lay the groundwork for a more personal outlook on the instrument through in-depth analysis of chord and scale structures, and explore how to incorporate those structure into your solos and other playing. Knowledge of chords and scales will be helpful but is not required.
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New England Fiddle
Instructor: Lissa Schneckenburger
Sun., November 28, 2:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m., $35.
We will start with a brief overview of New England fiddling, its stylistic elements, and its history - complete with musical examples! The group will then learn one or two tunes from the traditional repertoire by ear. If there is time, we’ll also go over specific ornaments and chords. Open to fiddlers of all levels. Bring a recording device! www.lissafiddle.com
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