Three-Day Intensive Workshop in Lake Odessa, Michigan

Thursday, September 13, to Saturday, September 15, 2018

Join us for three days of intensive hammered dulcimer instruction, jamming, and fun at a great venue in Michigan. All hammered dulcimer players are welcome, regardless of skill level, although the material will primarily be geared towards intermediate/advanced players. This is your chance to dig deeply into new arrangements, techniques, and theory concepts with a nationally-recognized instructor. Class space is limited, so grab your spot today!

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact Karen.
 

Workshop cost

The full cost of the workshop is $195. A non-refundable $95 deposit is required to secure your spot. The balance is due at the beginning of the workshop. You may use the links below to pay the deposit or the full workshop registration fee.

After paying your deposit or full registration fee, you will be given access to a downloadable pdf form, which will ask you to provide information about your dulcimer background and your preferences so that the workshop can be best targeted to each participant. Please return this form as soon as possible so that Karen has time to tailor the workshop material to participants' preferences. Bear in mind that the material will primarily be presented at an intermediate/advanced level.

Workshop Content

This workshop is designed to build your skills and push you to a new level of playing. The workshop will be organized around arrangements, which might include O'Carolan melodies, classical pieces, airs, waltzes, fiddle tunes, hymns, duets, etc. Sheet music will be provided, but arrangements will also be taught by ear and using visuals of the instrument. In addition, we will discuss the underpinnings of each arrangement, and work on techniques for tackling tough passages and improving your musicality. Topics we are likely to explore related to our arrangements include:

  • Ornamentation
  • Hammer control
  • Improving speed and rhythm
  • Hand independence and bringing out the melody
  • Chosen chord progressions and substitutions
  •  Playing with dynamics and emotion
  • Accompaniment patterns
  • Ensemble skills

Workshop Location

The workshop will be held at:

Bob’s Barn 
1417 Johnson St. 
Lake Odessa, MI 48849-1313

 Campgrounds and hotels are available nearby. There are also several nearby restaurants. Meals are not included in the workshop fee, but the class or small groups may organize lunches or dinners together.

Daily Schedule

Thursday:
9:00-12:00 Morning Session 
12:00-1:15 Lunch 
1:15-4:30 Afternoon Session 
5:00-6:30 Evening Meal 
Evening: Optional jamming, if the space is available

Friday:
9:00-12:00 Morning Session  
12:00-1:15 Lunch  
1:15-4:30 Afternoon Session  
5:00-6:30 Evening Meal  
7:00 Informal concert (by Karen) followed by optional jamming

Saturday: 
9:00-12:00 Morning Session   
12:00-1:15 Lunch   
1:15-3:00 Afternoon Session   
Pack up, head home, keep practicing!

What to Bring

Bring anything you need to play your dulcimer - stand, hammers, tuning wrench, tuner, etc. Chairs will be available at the venue. Bring a pencil, as well as a notebook if you would like extra space for notes. Sheet music will be provided. You are also encouraged to bring a voice or video recorder to help you remember the content after the workshop, but please do not share this content with those who are not in the class.

 

Questions? Please contact Karen.