Mando & Banjo Week features classes in two of the instruments that are at the core of several of the most popular folk genres, including bluegrass, old-time, Irish and Scottish, as well as some of the more adventurous blendings of traditional and jazz flavors known as ‘new acoustic’ music. For the mandolin students, we also offer classes in classical mandolin, improvisation and traditional swing/jazz, while the banjo students can sample a variety of classes in three-finger plucked or clawhammer styles. Mando & Banjo Week has been paired with our Fiddle Week, offering classes in similar styles, to encourage students from both programs to jam with each other, and with guitar classes in both programs to provide rhythm players, the possibilities for impromptu bands and jam sessions are rich, indeed. There will be concerts throughout the week featuring our world-class staff, and the optional Student Showcase at week’s end will be an opportunity for students to show what they have learned.
Registration and a detailed listing of classes, instructors, and weekly schedules available on The Swannanoa Gathering website.