MUSIC WORKSHOPS

FALL 2024 WORKSHOPS:

Maqaming the Blues: Exploring Connections in Music from Appalachia to the Middle East with The Swingbillies of Boonetown

Join us on the Front Porch with Meade Richter and members of The Swingbillies of Boonetown for this unique musical outing. This interactive workshop focuses on musical modes meant to express specific moods, empowering participants to join in vocal and instrumental improvisation as the group tells their own stories through emotive musical expression. Modes taken from Appalachian fiddle music, African American blues, Arabic traditions, and Western classical music will be approached within a lyrical call and response format derived from pedagogic traditions in Middle Eastern Maqams and Appalachian “by ear” training. Musicians and non-musicians alike are welcome to join this cross-cultural exploration of musical tradition and expression! Front Porch Stage, 2pm Friday

Musing on a Melody with Ric Robertson, A Songwriting Workshop

Who better to lead this Fall’s songwriting workshop than one of the most prolific artists on the bill, Ric Robertson? When he’s not playing with acts like Donna the Buffalo, Sam Grisman Project, Sierra Ferrell and more, he’s crafting his own mystical musings as a solo artist. Whether it be through lyrical storytelling, rich melodies, or structuring songs, Ric has a way of infusing his voice into compelling arrangements. So, join us for a discussion on songwriting before Ric’s Grove Stage set and maybe you’ll walk away having found the tools to share your own voice! Front Porch Stage, 12pm Friday

Introduction to the Rhythms of Brazilian Music with MaisCéu

Jimmie Griffith spent his youth living between the mountains of Minas Gerais and the mountains of the United States, so naturally his music serves as a reflection of the two cultures. With MaisCéu, Griffith combines the foundational structures of Brazilian and Appalachian folk—crafting a unique cultural conversation through his music. Join Griffith on the Front Porch Stage as he shares some of the unique rhythms and techniques of Brazilian music, while showcasing some of his own work before he performs at the Cabaret Tent later in the afternoon. Front Porch Stage, 12pm Saturday

Exploring the Foundation of Reggae Guitar with Gabriel Pelli

Musical chameleon and Shakori Hills mainstay Gabriel Pelli will be leading attendees in a deep dive into the musical structures of reggae guitar stylings. Pelli helps us kick off the festival’s first day with Dub Lorenzo, an instrumental reggae outfit that will have the Dance Tent grooving with their captivating rhythms. Pelli’s workshop will introduce essential techniques that define the sound of the genre, from chord voicings and offbeat strumming patterns to the iconic “skank” rhythms. Come ready to learn or simply to vibe out to the smooth reggae grooves from the Front Porch stage. Guitars are the primary focus, but other instruments are welcome for our wrap up jam! Front Porch Stage, 3pm Saturday