2010 Celtic Week Classes

FIDDLE:

INTERMEDIATE IRISH FIDDLE A (Brian Conway)
In this course for intermediate players new to the Irish style, we will cover basic violin/fiddle technique for tone, agility in the left hand, and intonation, as well as the basics of Irish fiddle technique: bowings, ornamentation and style. 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 establishing foundations for you to take home and apply throughout your own learning as well as answering any questions you may have. Sheet music will be provided for those who need it. Please bring an audio recorder. (Class limit: 30)

INTERMEDIATE IRISH FIDDLE B (Manus McGuire)
This class will be aimed at the improving fiddle player who wants to play more in an Irish style. Listening to solo fiddle playing will be paramount in this exercise and some typical tunes from the Irish fiddle player’s standard repertoire will be dissected and examined. Typical bowing motifs used in the various dance rhythms will be analyzed and discussed during the course of the week, and we’ll also address approaches to picking up and learning tunes aurally. The audio recording of class sessions is encouraged. Although tunes will be taught by ear, sheet music will be provided as a memory aid for many of the tunes introduced during the week. (Class limit: 30)

ADVANCED IRISH FIDDLE A (Martin Hayes)
This class for advanced players will explore Irish tunes from the ‘inside-out,’ and focus on the possibilities for variation and improvisation that exist within the tradition, as a means to our own personal expression and interpretation. There will be particular emphasis on bowing, rhythm and the creation of variations. Students are encouraged to record the classes. (Class limit: 30)

ADVANCED IRISH FIDDLE B (Kevin Burke)
This class will feature discussions and demonstrations of various techniques used in Kevin’s playing with particular attention being paid to ornaments and bowings. Other topics for consideration will include repertoire, musical history, arrangements and comparisons between group and solo performances. Questions on other aspects of fiddle playing will be encouraged. (Class limit: 30)

INTERMEDIATE SCOTTISH FIDDLE (Jamie Laval)
Scottish fiddle is all about making people want to dance. We’ll start by learning the generic, stripped-down versions of several classic tunes (we usually have time for at least 2 reels, 2 jigs, 2 strathspeys, a march and an air). As the week progresses we’ll add layers of dance-inducing devices such as slurred bowing patterns which provide the best groove, rhythmic accents for added excitement, and Highland bagpipe ornaments that add lift and drive to the tune. We’ll work on developing natural body movement into our playing for better rhythmic impulse. The structure of tunes will be discussed, examining patterns that outline the underlining harmonies. Fundamentals of good violin technique will be integrated into everything presented, using efficient practicing methods that yield the quickest results. The class will be taught primarily by ear, but sheet music of tunes and bowing styles will be given for home study. An added chance to practice the tunes taught in class will be offered at a daily Scottish session held each day at 6:00 pm at the Garden Tent. We will encourage a fun, supportive learning environment in which no one will be singled out. Audio recorders welcome. (Class limit: 30)

ADVANCED SCOTTISH FIDDLE (Laura Risk)
This course explores the stylistic nuances of Scottish fiddling. We’ll work on ornamentation and bowing, phrasing and expression, playing ‘in the groove’, improvising melodic variations, and using accents to create rhythmic excitement. We’ll also look at the art of playing second fiddle in Scottish music and work on improvising harmonies and chordal backup parts. We’ll discuss Scotland’s regional fiddle styles and listen to recordings of players from each style. Technique and theory topics – tone, practice methods, simple chord theory, playing with speed and precision – will be included as appropriate. All tunes, including strathspeys, reels, jigs, marches, and slow airs, will be taught by ear. Students are encouraged to bring a small audio recorder to record musical examples and repertoire. (Class limit: 30)

CAPE BRETON FIDDLE A & B (Andrea Beaton)
This class for intermediate to advanced fiddlers is offered once in the morning and repeated in the afternoon. We’ll look at what makes Cape Breton music unique, and how it differs from other styles of fiddle music. It is an oral tradition, and Andrea will teach mainly by ear, but will provide sheet music for the tunes as well. Ornamentation is a big part of the music, and Andrea will focus on that, as well as the bowing style, all of which contribute to the “dance feel” of the music. Different types of tunes will be explored in this class. Traditional and newly-composed marches, strathspeys, reels, and jigs will be looked at and grouped together in sets, and their tempos will be discussed. Andrea will give examples of stylistic differences within Cape Breton music by demonstrating and/or using recordings of different fiddlers from various regions of the island. Students will leave with some fresh, new tunes, and more knowledge about Cape Breton’s composers, musical style and culture. (Class limit: 25)

INTRO TO CELTIC FIDDLE (Jane MacMorran)
This class for intermediate fiddlers will study and play standard Scottish and Irish fiddle tunes. Tunes may be learned in the way that is easiest for you – by ear, by fiddle tablature (it’s super easy and will be thoroughly explained!), or by standard music notation. Whatever way works for you is fine. The point is to learn the tunes! We will start out working on an air, a jig, and a reel. New tunes will be added throughout the week. You will be able to master some of the tunes and will also have tunes to take home to polish. Come join the fun and enter the magical world of Celtic fiddling! You’ll never want to leave! An audio recorder is recommended.

FIDDLE FOR COMPLETE BEGINNERS (Jane MacMorran)
This class is for those with a sense of adventure, humor, and a burning desire to play the fiddle! Students will work on the basic elements of fiddle playing: holding the violin, left-hand position, bow- hold, and tone production (absence of scratches, squeaks, and whistles). There will be many exercises (fun ones) and ideas to work on once you return home. This class is for Absolute Beginners!

FIDDLE TECHNIQUE (Jane MacMorran)
The point of this class is simply to improve your playing. Want to play with better tone, intonation, or bow control? Would you like to play tunes faster and clearer? If so, then this is the class for you! Individual problems will be addressed with creative ideas, and Jane will outline and demonstrate the technique you will need for different types of playing on several levels, along with ideas for home practice and music to suit different levels of playing. This class is best suited for fiddlers who have facility with the instrument rather than for beginners.
(Class limit: 20)

FLUTE & TINWHISTLE:

BEGINNING FLUTE (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 tongueing. 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 (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 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 by ear so bring a D flute and a recording device. ABC notation will be provided for those who need it.

BEGINNING IRISH TINWHISTLE A & B (Kathleen Conneely, John Skelton)
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.

INTERMED./ADVANCED IRISH TINWHISTLE A & B (Kathleen Conneely, John Skelton)
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.

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.

FRETTED INSTRUMENTS:

SESSION GUITAR ACCOMPANIMENT I (Eamon O'Leary)
The student will learn chord shapes for dropped-D tuning, modal chords, chord inversions and progressions for effective accompaniment as well as essential rhythm techniques. We’ll look at several different approaches for accompanying each tune, so the student will have the tools necessary to be creative in a session.

DADGAD GUITAR (Eamon O'Leary)
This class will explore approaches to the accompaniment of Irish music - both instrumental and vocal – with the unique DADGAD tuning. Focus will be placed on rhythm, chord selection, phrasing, and right- and left-hand techniques. No experience with this tuning is necessary. Chord charts will be provided.

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 DADGAD, 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.

CELTIC BOUZOUKI (Robin Bullock)
The Irish bouzouki, or cittern, has gained a prominent role in Celtic music over the last thirty years. The world of this instrument is made rich and strange by the fact that there is no standard tuning, only a number of distinctive alternate tunings on four, five or even six pairs of strings. This class will cover techniques of both melody and accompaniment, as well as how to choose a bouzouki, instrument setup, string types, pick types and amplification methods. Players of both 8- and 10-string instruments are welcome. An audio recorder is recommended.

MANDOLIN I (Martin Quinn)
This class will focus on teaching good technique, rhythm and style. Tunes will be taught that enable students to join in and participate in sessions. Advice will be given on plectrum choice, string types and instrument setup. Tunes will be provided in both staff notation and ABC formats. It is also strongly recommended that students bring along an audio recording device.

MANDOLIN II (Darren Maloney)
This course is for students from intermediate to advanced level and will expand on the skills and topics introduced in the Mandolin I class. Topics covered will include the improvement of left- and right-hand technique, tone production, rhythm, style and phrasing while learning about ornamentation and application to tunes. Classes will be taught mainly by ear. Students are encouraged to bring an audio recorder, pen and paper.

TENOR BANJO (Darren Maloney)
This will be a general banjo class for all levels and abilities. Instruction will include the teaching of a selection of tunes focusing on topics such as right- and left-hand technique, timing and rhythm, style and phrasing and ornamentation. We will also touch on composition for the banjo. Classes will be taught mainly by ear. Students are encouraged to bring an audio recorder, pen and paper.

REEDS:

UILLEANN PIPES (Paddy Keenan)
The class will focus on several areas: the care and maintenance of the instrument, including discussions on reed-making and proper tuning; the teaching of new tunes, with attention given to both the basic melody and to styles of ornamentation, including standard piping variations such as rolls, triplets and crans; and the elimination of any bad playing habits that may have been picked up by the students. There will be discussions of the various types of tunes common in traditional Irish music, and of the importance of proper tempo when playing. Paddy will also discuss the role of Ireland’s “Travellers” in the preservation of traditional music, and the unique, open-fingered style of playing common among Travelling pipers. It is essential that the students bring audio recording devices (no video recorders, please) to class, as there will be no sheet music provided; the class will be taught entirely by ear. Intermediate and advanced players will benefit most from this class.

BUTTON ACCORDION (Martin Quinn)
This class will cover B/C, C#/D accordions, for every level of player from beginner to advanced. Topics will include command of the instrument, (fingering, bellows control, etc.), improvement in personal musicality, understanding a tune, phrasing, ornamentation, with a special emphasis on rhythm and lift. Students’ skill level will be assessed and they will be assigned appropriate tunes. Students are encouraged to ask as many questions as possible. Different playing styles shall be demonstrated and discussed, along with listening recommendations for representative box-players. Classes will be taught by ear but standard notation or ABC notation will available to all students on request at end of the workshop. Students are encouraged to bring along an audio recorder, pen and paper.

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.

HARP:

BEGINNING 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.

SONG & FOLKLORE:

SCOTS GAELIC SONG FOR WORK & DANCE (Talitha MacKenzie)
Highland tradition marries song and movement in a vibrant and exhilarating way. This class will explore songs for spinning, weaving, waulking, milking, churning butter, rowing and more. Participants will also have the opportunity to learn dance steps and the songs that go with them so that they will have everything they need for a traditional ceilidh. Field recordings will be played and vocal style discussed; words and translations will be available. (No class limit)

SCOTTISH HISTORY & CULTURE THROUGH SONG (Talitha MacKenzie)
This class will delve into the Scottish past through Gaelic & Scots songs of great heroes, tragic characters and the common folk whose lives are changed by events beyond their control. We will look at Scotland’s relationship with her European neighbors and follow the Scottish diaspora as they mix with other cultures around the globe. (No class limit)

SINGING SCOTTISH SONGS (Ed Miller)
Each class period 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 and sampler CDs will be available and the language and social context of the songs will be explained. However, the 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, Hamish Henderson, Brian McNeill, 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)

IRISH TRADITIONAL SONG (Cathie Ryan)
Irish song has played a crucial role in the survival and growth of the Irish as a people and a nation. Traditional song has carried on the experiences, humor, character, and history of the Irish through the centuries. In this course we will discuss the historical importance of song, and experience the joy of exploring and singing some great traditional songs. We will focus on the oral tradition of sean nós (old style) singing by listening to some of the different regional styles found throughout Ireland, by learning the rudiments and framework of the style, and by using those rudiments to develop our own individual singing style. We’ll be working on children’s songs, humorous songs, narrative ballads, and love songs. We will use lyric sheets and learn our melodies by ear, so please bring audio recorders with you to class. (No class limit)

IRISH MYTH AND FOLKLORE (Cathie Ryan)
Before the history of Ireland was written down, there existed an Ireland known to us only through legend and myth. This was an Ireland of enchantment, peopled by gods and goddesses who lived alongside mortals. We know them in Celtic lore as giants, shape changers, magicians, warriors, kings and queens. Their stories and a selection of the folktales of Ireland will be the focus of this course. We will look at stories and characters from the national epic of Ireland, The Táin Bó Cuailnge, such as “Macha in the Pangs of Ulster,” “Dierdre and Noisiu in Exile of the Sons of Uisliu,” and also the legendary Brigid (both pagan and saint) whose feast day is still celebrated in Ireland with wonderful ritual. These stories still resonate in the Irish countryside and they hold great relevance to us today. To honor the oral tradition, Cathie will tell the stories before they are discussed. (No class limit)

SONG ACCOMPANIMENT ON GUITAR (Robbie O'Connell)
We will look at guitar accompaniment in regular and alternate tunings, and learn how to find the best key for your voice and explore the various options for accompaniment. What makes one singer’s version of a song the definitive version? We will analyze the techniques that make a song great and learn how introductions and links are put together to dress up a song and give it a unique style. We will trace the evolution of a song from a book or a field recording to performance on stage, and also discuss how a spoken introduction can set up a song. (No class limit)

SONGWRITING IN THE TRADITION (Robbie O'Connell)
Have you ever wanted to write a song but did not know where to begin? We will cover the stages of song writing from the initial idea to the finished song, and discuss the tips and tricks for increasing your creativity and becoming a songwriter. Bring a recorder, a notebook and an instrument. If songs are your passion, this is the class for you. (No class limit)

PERCUSSION & DANCE:

BODHRAN I (Matthew Olwell)
This class will address the fundamentals of playing the bodhran, including basic care and feeding of the instrument, good hand and body position, and techniques for reels and jigs. The class will emphasize playing by ear, musical sensitivity, and finding the rhythms hidden within the tunes. We will examine the similarities and differences between percussion in Irish music and other forms, with a focus on intuitive listening and “ear development.” Beginners are welcome, as are players who want to brush up on the basics or reevaluate their technique. Audio recording devices are encouraged. (Class limit: 25)

BODHRAN II (Matthew Olwell)
This class is designed for players with a solid foundation of technique, who are ready to sharpen their skills. Class time will be devoted to playing as a group, as well as individually. We will talk about how to accentuate rhythmic elements in different types of tunes, how to make smooth and interesting transitions within sets, and how to work with other rhythm players. Students should be comfortable with both jigs and reels and be able to play with consistent timing. Audio recording devices are encouraged. (Class limit: 25)

IRISH STEP DANCING (Eileen Mulligan Evans)
This class is open to anyone interested in Irish step dancing. During the course of the week, students will be introduced to dance basics, including form, technique and the history of Irish step dance in the United States and Ireland, beginning with the basic foundations of Irish dance. We’ll learn soft-shoe dances such as the Irish reel, light jig, slip jig and the single jig. The more experienced students will have the opportunity to learn more advanced soft-shoe and hard-shoe steps. We’ll also discuss each dance from a musical standpoint, and learn about traditional and contemporary Irish step dancing. Bring soft-soled shoes and comfortable clothes. (No class limit)

CEILI DANCING (Eileen Mulligan Evans)
In Ireland, a ceili refers to a social gathering with live music and dancing. This class provides the opportunity learn traditional Irish ceili dancing. Students will learn the basic foot movement, including sevens, threes, and the rise-and-grind step. The class includes learning several progressive and long ceili dances (“The Waves of Tory,” “The Siege of Ennis,” and “The Haymaker’s Jig”), and several four- and eight-hand competitive figure dances (“The Humors of Bandon,” “The Sweets of May,” and “High Caul Cap”). The social atmosphere of the Irish dance is present in our music and dances. There are no strangers here but friends you haven’t met yet! Have fun and enjoy some laughs. (No class limit)

OTHER ACTIVITIES

POTLUCK SESSIONS
In addition to the regular class sessions, in the afternoons we offer Potluck Sessions serving up a different menu of one-hour workshops each day.

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS (Denisa Rullmoss)
We offer a full-day program, taught by Denisa Rullmoss, for children ages 6-12. Children must have turned 6 by July 1st to participate. No exceptions please. Evening childcare for ages 3-12 will be provided at no additional cost.

It’s going to be a real CREATURE FEATURE this summer at the Swannanoa Gathering Children’s Program. Lions, tigers and bears....OH MY! Animals, animals everywhere. Creatures both big and small, slimy and furry, sweet and scary, IMAGINED and REAL, will be celebrated. We will have fun with everything from soft kittens and slithering snakes to fuzzy Muppet monsters and one-eyed, one-horned, flying purple people eaters! A grooooowling great time will be had each day, as we make crazy crafts, (like “wild thing” horns, paper maché dragons, and strange animal puppets ), sing critter songs, and play animal games. All creatures great and small will have the chance to make noise as they become part of a Kid’s Rhythm Band, taught by Sue Ford (singer, songwriter, percussionist). And for extra excitement we will have visitors throughout the week, tamed and untamed! A few of them will be musicians and artists from the Gathering staff who will perform just for our kids. Our “beastly” traditions will continue as usual: The Gathering Scavenger Quest, shaving cream hair-dos, peanut butter/cereal faces, jelly bean joke jar and water balloon fights. We will close each busy day with free swim time in the college pool. So find your inner “Wild Thing” and join us for week of barks, howls, roars and maybe a few squeaks.... Non-swimmers must be accompanied by a parent to swim. There will be a $25 art/craft materials fee for this class, payable to the coordinator on arrival.