Intermediate Southern Clawhammer Banjo

”Continue to develop a hands-on appreciation of the clawhammer style of banjo while playing with a North Carolina native and master of the craft. Learn up close and by ear approaching rhythm, clear tone, and a set of great traditional melodies, note by note. Benefit from the explanation of tunes, listening sessions, and traditional techniques with cultural context. Bring a 5-string banjo; some previous familiarity with the instrument required for this intermediate-level class.”.

“In the hills just above Nashville, TN there is a house set back in the woods where people go to learn how to play clawhammer banjo. Only 15 campers are allowed to attend so each class is small and every camper comes away feeling like he or she had a couple of days of private lessons. And yet, friendships are made that last a lifetime. It's pretty magical“.

“Old-Time Week is the perfect place to learn not only your next favorite tune AND some new techniques to work on for the coming year, but to connect with other musicians who want to learn the tunes and the history of this rich musical style. Dancing and singing are both big parts of this week, alongside instrument classes in fiddle, banjo, guitar, bass and more”.

West Marin Fiddle Camp is an outdoor acoustic roots music camp centering on immersion in rural American traditions in an inspiring natural setting.

“Mars Hill University’s BROTMW strives to create an inclusive space that offers something for everyone, no matter where they are in their musical journey! “

Southern Clawhammer Banjo

”Gain a hands-on appreciation of the clawhammer style of banjo while playing with a North Carolina native and master of the craft. Learn up close and by ear, approaching rhythm, clear tone, and a set of great traditional melodies, note by note. Benefit from the explanation of tunes, listening sessions, and traditional techniques with cultural context. Bring a 5-string banjo; some previous familiarity with the instrument will further your experience in class”.

“Join these world-class players and teachers for an unforgettable weekend of bluegrass/three-finger and old-time/clawhammer instruction, concerts, jamming and social gatherings designed for all levels of players”

Beautiful Star, An Appalachian Nativity

Evening performances: December 13, 14, 19, 20, 21 at 7pm
Sunday Matinees: December 15, 22 at 4pm

“From Africa to Appalachia”

With Cheick Hamala Diabate and Danny Knicely

“Spend a long weekend away from everyday life's toil and cares with nothing to do but hang out with world-famous teachers and play the 5-string banjo, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, bass, or . . .“

West Marin Fiddle Camp is an outdoor acoustic roots music camp centering on immersion in rural American traditions in an inspiring natural setting.

Riley will be teaching old time banjo and guitar.

Three incredible days of fun, with lots of great live music!

“The schedule offers an intensive morning class each day for fiddle, banjo, guitar, mandolin, singing, mountain dulcimer, and an all instrument rhythm and repertoire ensemble.  Afternoon mini-classes are available a la carte, and range from flatfooting to shape note singing, and many things in between!  Each evening offers a concert set featuring our wonderful instructors and staff, and a square dance on Friday to wrap up the week. 

Perhaps most importantly, there are many opportunities to jam throughout the day and night, for both beginner and advanced players.  Making music together is what it’s all about, and you will find a mix of open jams, fast and slow, led by instructors and students alike.“

“Free old-time and bluegrass workshops and Dances will take place on Tuesday, June 4 through Friday, June 7 at Veterans Memorial Park.“