Workshops and Jams

We are pleased to offer a full selection of both Instructional and Artist Workshops at our Workshop Tent located by the Beachfront.  We also offer Slow Jams, Guided Jams at the Jam Tent located by the Baseball on the Hill.

2024 WORKSHOP AND JAM SCHEDULE COMING SOON!

We do our best to adhere to the published schedule, but workshops are always subject to change due to presenters travel, health, or other circumstances.

Instructional and Artist Workshops

Friday-Sunday a full schedule of workshops are available to all festival attendees.  Workshops are presented by qualified teaching artists, as well as by many of the talented musicians that headline the Main Stage.  Workshops may focus on specific instrumental skills, vocal lessons, band dynamics, jamming etiquette and technique or sometimes they may take a storytelling format.  These are a wonderful opportunity to improve your own skills or to have a more intimate experience with a favorite artist. All skill levels are invited.  Workshops are typically held under the White Tent Located by the beachfront near the Osprey’s Nest, but check the program for details as locations can change.  Some chairs are provided, but feel free to bring a few of your own.

A small sample of popular workshops from past years:Family Activities and Workshops

  • Band Skills with Mile Twelve
  • Fiddlin’ Around with Maddie Denton of East Nash Grass and Dan Tyminski Band
  • 30 Years of Memories with White Mountain Bluegrass
  • Banjo Making Demonstration with Steve Wilson of Wilson Banjo Co.
  • Harmonies with The Gibson Brothers
  • Songwriting Circle with Chris Moore and Ted Demille of 317 Main
  • Lead Vocals with Tim O’Brien of Hot Rize

 

Slow and Guided Jams

What is a slow jam? 

Anyone, with any instrument, can get into this bluegrass jam session, even if you’ve never tried it before. All you need to know are four basic chords (G, C, D and A) A slow jam will give you the practice and the confidence you’ll need to join a real jam session.

Guided Jams are open to all skill levels.

Jam focused workshops are also featured here.  Such as…

  • Presenting a Song in a Jam
  • Bass for Jamming
  • Beginner Jam Class

Each year we also have at least one Guided jam that is specifically open to our Youth and Teen Pickers.  This is often led by one of our young bands. 

Teen musicians Wyatt Ellis and Ian Lane lead the Teen Jam 2023

Pre-Festival Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam Class

Pre-Festival  Wernick Method  Bluegrass Jam Class with Jordan Richmond – Tuesday and Wednesday, August 27 & 28

Pete Wernick’s inventive and time-tested method harnesses students’ natural wish to play music in a small group setting. With basic skills and good guidance, students start making music and having fun — almost immediately. Jordan will show you the ropes of a bluegrass jam session, fitting in at your own ability level.