Key West Dulcimer Fest

Jam at Casa Cabanas - January 28th in Key West!

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 15:54:00 +0000

Saturday, January 28th at:

Casa Cabanas
2510 Harris Ave.
Key West, Florida

5 - 11 pm

Jams galore! I'll be there - looks like Robert Force and Scott Snyder will be there as well. Just one of the many opportunities to get together and have some musical fun!

If you're interested in private lessons, I will be in Key West from Thursday to Monday (Januuary 26th - 30th) - e-mail or call (407-342-1447) if you'd like to set something up.

Looking forward to living la vida local in Key West. : )

Sho na bish,

Bing

Gathering

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 19:09:00 +0000

Here's the latest on the dates of January 26th through 29th:

There are a handful of dulcimer players who will be in Key West, myself included. There will be some get-togethers, jams and private lessons available. No dates and times have been set - that will happen once I'm down there and better know where everyone is. If you're interested in any of the above, the best thing to do is drop me an e-mail and I'll put you on a list to be notified when a group is getting together or heading somewhere on the island. I don't know of any other instructors who will be down there during this time.

Refunds have gone out, so please keep your eyes on the mailbox if you were a registrant.

We're looking forward to a laid-back hang-out in Key West - keep in touch!

Sho na bish,

Bing

Key West Dulcimer Fest: Canceled

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 21:04:00 +0000

Due to a serious deficit in registrations, the Key West Dulcimer Fest has been canceled indefinitely. The handful of registration fees collected will be refunded. I deeply apologize for any cost and/or inconvenience that this may cause.

From the first festival in 2010, we knew that the United States economy was starting to show signs of recession/depression. With the 2011 and 2012 editions, it has become obvious that this trend is only getting more severe. Though we had set a date of December 31st as a deadline for registrations, we are pulling the plug now so that people can plan accordingly.

Though we had great fun at the 1st and 2nd annual Key West Dulcimer Fests, this will be the end of the line for future editions unless someone else takes up the organizer position and runs with it. I am counting my brief time as a festival organizer as a joyful and educational experience that I hope will be helpful in other areas of my career. Many thanks to my wife, Jae Futch, and my sister-in-law, Sheri Cabanas, for their assistance over the past three years with this event. Thanks to all the volunteers who have helped us operationally and to the instructors who were part of our collective staff. Thanks also to the Key West American Legion, Hurricane Hole, Days Inn, Holiday Inn, Comfort Inn and Lexington Hotel for their accommodations. Special thanks to Folkcraft Instruments for their sponsorship, the Key West Food and Wine Festival for their community partnership and to Conch TV and The Citizen for their media assistance.

Most of all - thanks to everyone who attended the festival in its brief history. There's more than a little bittersweetness involved when I say that we could've never done it without you.

Best Regards,

Bing Futch

Registration Deadline: December 31st!

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:26:00 +0000

Attention prospective festival-goers: the deadline for registrations is December 31st. If you're thinking about attending the festival, be sure to get your registrations in by the end of 2011 - thank you!

Key West Dulcimer Fest 2012~

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 23:12:00 +0000

Workshops!

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 17:16:00 +0000

Here is the list of workshop offerings for Thursday, January 26th to Saturday, January 28th. Sunday, January 29th will be a morning of Master's Classes; longer and more in-depth workshops available for an additional fee payable directly to the instructor's. Those offerings will be listed here as they are scheduled. Some workshop descriptions are not yet available so they are listed here by skill level only. Please be sure to click the instructor's names for their website links where you'll find bio information and contact information.

The daily schedule is as follows:

Breakfast - 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.

1st Period - 9:00 - 10:15 a.m.

2nd Period - 10:30 - 11:45 a.m.

Lunch - 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

3rd Period - 1:00 - 2:15 p.m.

4th Period - 2:30 - 3:45 p.m.

Dinner - 3:45 - 6:00 p.m.

Concerts - (Friday and Saturday) 6:00 - 10 p.m.

The following initials denote these instruments:

MD = mountain dulcimer

HD = hammered dulcimer

SD = steel drum

PW = pennywhistle

NAF = Native American flute

AH = autoharp

GUI = guitar

UKE = ukulele

BAN = banjo

VOX = singing

ALL = all instruments welcome

Robert Force

Lead Lines & Improvisations
(Thursday - Comfort Inn Patio 101 - 2nd Period)
MD

This workshop is about knowing there are sets of notes which, if played at the right time with the right inflection, open the doors of perception for both player and audience. Music becomes an interactive dance: giving, taking, responding to yours and other musician's creativity and sensibility. There are rules for this: do-mi-sol-do are nouns; ti is a conjunction; re-fa-la are adjectives. We will learn to apply these "grammatical" building blocks to build "leads"-- those musical sentences that illuminate music.

Intermediate to Advanced

Off Beat & On Time-- Counter Rhythms & Syncopation
(Friday - Comfort Inn Patio 101 - 2nd Period)
MD

We will explore counter-rhythm, alternating the flat-picked "roll" and the strum within the same song to build syncopation dynamics. To further understand this "counter" effect we will incorporate techniques such as hammering on, pulling off, splitting strings, harmonics and playing the melody with one hand only. We will also visit a few tricky chord progressions. Using these techniques we'll play some traditional and contemporary compositions and even recast a few folk songs as reggaes and calypsos.

Intermediate

Two-Stop Chords
(Friday - Comfort Inn Patio 101 - 4th Period)
MD

I believe the unique, musical world-voice of the dulcimer (and it's charm) resides in the two-stop chord. They subtlety imply harmony and tune direction rather than powerfully declaring so with bold strokes. On the time line of world musical history, the dulcimer is the bridge between the lyrical and the chordal. These "almost" chords are the shy, tentative, innocent first kisses of youth, full of wistfulness and coltish grace. As we learn to "walk" these chords, the truly named "sweet sound" of dulcimer is revealed.

Beginner to Intermediate

Wellyn & Cornwall
(Saturday - Comfort Inn Patio 101 - 4th Period)
MD

These two "signature" instrumentals by Robert Force and Albert d'Ossche' were written on the same day in 1972. The lyrical simplicity of Cornwall and the dynamic rhythm of Wellyn appeared on the 1977 seminal recording: The Pacific Rim Dulcimer Project, a diverse collection of songs and tunes featuring artists that were key performers in the then emerging dulcimer renaissance. Wellyn is the most often recorded "new" dulcimer tune with dozens of interpretations from folk to jazz to rock to world beat.

All Levels

Bruce Ford

The Dulcimer Was Made For Singing!

(Thursday - Lexington Courtyard - 3rd Period)

MD VOX

The mountain dulcimer was MADE to accompany our voices and it does it beautifully! Don’t our voices make a fine accompaniment to our island setting? The problem is most dulcimer players don’t learn how to adjust their playing for vocals. The good news is that in the course of one workshop, you’ll be off and singing like a lark. This workshop is designed to have you singing quickly, confidently and without stress.

- Simplify your right and left hand motions to free your brain up for singing

- Posture, positioning and poise

- How to get songs you WANT to sing into your vocal range

- Transposing songs for your newfound skills

Since we’re in the tropics…how about some island-kinda songs as practice. This is a very fun and popular workshop and often has the impact of “unleashing” pent up vocal talent! Intermediate

The Break-through Machine

(Saturday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 1st Period)

Have you plateau-ed? Do you need to supercharge your practice sessions so you can blast off to the next level? If so, you are not alone! Many, perhaps most, dulcimer players stay where they plateau, but you don’t have to. If you want to accelerate your acquisition of skills, Bruce will walk you through tried and proven methods for doing so. You’ll leave this workshop having practiced these methods and will be well on your way to the next level Intermediate to Advanced

Group Playing and Arranging - Gospel in the Tropics

(Friday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 2nd Period)

Bruce will pick out 3-5 less well-known, easy to play, Gospel songs for us to play and/or sing. The group emphasis will be techniques for interesting group playing. Let’s explore ideas for turning songs into cool arrangements for a group. The singing emphasis will be on playing while singing in a relaxed way. At the end of the workshop, you’ll have ideas for turning your group or club arrangements of songs into something memorable. Your gigs will never be the same. If you are, or desire to be a group leader, this is a MUST. Intermediate to Advanced

The 10 Big Chords and How To Use Them.

(Friday - Comfort Inn Patio 105 - 3rd Period)

A practical workshop on chording Beginner to Intermediate

Adam Miller

Scott Joplin Rags for Chromatic Autoharp

(Saturday - Comfort Inn Patio 105 - 1st Period)

The Entertainer (1902) and Pineapple Rag (1907) in C major.

Brother, Can You Spare a Dime? (1931) for Chromatic Autoharp

(Friday - Lexington Courtyard - 1st Period)

Harburg and Gorney's in A minor explores the major and minor changes of a Russian melody / 1931 pop tune.

Open Chording Fiddle Tunes for Diatonic Autoharp

(Thursday - Lexington Courtyard - 2nd Period)

Stephen Foster's "Nellie Bly" (1860) and "Coleman's March" in D Major.

Broadway Showtunes Arranged for the Chromatic Autoharp

(Saturday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 3rd Period)

Sondheim and Bernstein's "Maria" (1957) in C Major.

Rogers and Hammerstein's "Oh, What a Beautiful Morning" (1943) in G Major.

Thomasina Levy

A Singing Circle (with Rob Brereton)

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Mallory Room - 4th Period)

ALL VOX

The first two instruments are the human heart (source of all rhythm) and the voice. Come join the group in a joyful hour of singing a variety of chants, songs, rounds and sounds. Feel free to bring your own song or round to teach and present to the circle. No musical experience required.

Left Hand Embellishments

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Mallory Room - 3rd Period)

Left hand embellishments will help you to “dress up” your music once you are familiar with the basics of playing the mountain dulcimer. Once you get some of these techniques under your belt (or should we say “under your left finger tips”?) you can even make a simple song like Bile Them Cabbage Down sound exciting. Techniques we will explore are: Hammering-On, Pulling-Off, Vibrato, Slides, Harmonics. Beginner to Intermediate

Minor Scales and Songs

(Saturday - Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 3rd Period)

Songs in a minor tuning often have that “haunting” feeling. Some basic music theory will be presented. Learn how to tune and retune your dulcimer to minor modes from DAd. Come tuned to DAd and bring a capo. Intermediate

Arranging Songs on the Mt. Dulcimer

(Friday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 4th Period)

This workshop will help to give the participants skills to arrange sings in different keys. Students will be taught a familiar tune (Amazing Grace) four different ways in order to see the various possibilities which can exist for one song. Then, each person will be given blank tab paper and encouraged to try to arrange a song on her/his own. Advanced

Steve Smith

Duet playing (with Ruth Smith)

(Friday - Lexington Royal Palm - 2nd Period)

Learn to play with a hammered dulcimer partner. In the first half of this workshop, the hammered dulcimer players learn a tune while the guitar players learn the backup part to this tune in a separate concurrent session. In the second half of the workshop, the hammered dulcimer and guitar players will join together to play the tune, focusing on techniques to help the instruments complement one another and making the results more musical by use of dynamics and expression. Intermediate to Advanced

Fingerstyle Guitar

(Friday - Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 4th Period)

GUI

Basic three finger-roll, right-hand pattern and variations for both 4/4 and 3/4 time. This workshop focuses on getting these two basic finger patterns down “rock solid” to form a foundation for later variations. Also, how to play flat-pick melodies using fingers and/or finger picks will be demonstrated. Students need to be able to play basic left-hand chords smoothly. Intermediate

How to Accompany Others on Guitar

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 3rd Period)

GUI

The art of backing up a lead instrument, such as a hammered or mountain dulcimer, fiddle, or other lead instrument is a very special skill that must be learned and developed over time. In this workshop, the student will learn the key factors needed to make your guitar and the other instrument involved sound as though they are one instrument. How to follow and support the lead instrument with complimentary chord progressions and leading runs will be taught, along with how to play with dynamics and expression. All Skill Levels

Music Publishing, Copyrights, and Licensing

(Thursday - Lexington Courtyard - 4th Period)

Learn how to copyright your music. Learn the legal requirements concerning the public use of others' music in your performances and/or in your recordings. This session will clear up the vast amount of misinformation that exists about the legal use of music and how to get permission to use or license it. Public performance and mechanical royalty structure will also be discussed. New developing digital download and streaming copyright issues will be explained. Bring your questions! All Participants

Clawhammer Banjo from the Ground Up

(Saturday - Lexington Courtyard - 1st Period)

BAN

Basic right-hand clawhammer stroke, simple left-hand chords, pulloffs, and hammer-ons, along with simple melody lines to begin to play the old-timey way. No experience necessary! Beginner

Ruth Smith

Duet playing (with Steve Smith)

(Friday - Lexington Royal Palm - 2nd Period)

HD GUI

Learn to play with a guitar partner. In the first half of this workshop, the hammered dulcimer players learn a tune while the guitar players learn the backup part to this tune in a separate concurrent session. In the second half of the workshop, the hammered dulcimer and guitar players will join together to play the tune, focusing on techniques to help the instruments complement one another and making the results more musical by use of dynamics and expression. Intermediate to Advanced

From Heart to Hands

(Saturday - Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 4th Period)

Learn to play with greater expressiveness. We'll study specific arranging tools and exercises to help accentuate the beauty in melody lines and emphasize the underlying theme of the music. Repertoire will be drawn from expressive, lyrical music. (a slow air, waltz, or lament)

Intermediate

I Wonder As I Wander

(Thursday - Lexington Royal Palm - 3rd Period)

Learn the hauntingly beautiful winter favorite “I Wonder as I Wander”. We’ll study 4 different chord-based variations of the melody and sneak in a little hands independence as well as playing with greater expression. Advanced

Name that Tune

(Friday - Lexington Royal Palm - 4th Period)

Technique exercises don’t have to be dull. Have fun and be productive as we discover musical phrases that act like building blocks for many common tunes and, before you know it, you’ve learned a new tune! Intermediate

Stephen Seifert

Chord College

Intermediate

(Thursday - Lexington Royal Palm - 1st Period)

How to Use chords in Backup, Arranging, and Improvisation - DAD - No Capo - It looks like you have to memorize tons of chords and you don't have any idea how to use them? This system makes the task easier, quicker, and more applicable. The goal is to know where and how to play all major and minor chords available on the mountain dulcimer. If you've had trouble with this in the past, try this class. There isn’t a lot of music theory talk, just practical ways to learn and use this stuff.

On The Spot Multiple Parts For Group Playing
Intermediate

(Friday - Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 1st Period)

Learn how to EASILY and QUICKLY come up with melody, harmony, and backup in three octaves as you sight read a simple melody from tablature. We’ll learn shortcuts and more! One or two tunes a day.

Exactly How To Turn Plain Into Cool

Advanced

(Friday - Lexington Courtyard - 4th Period)

MD

This isn’t just “do what feels right.” I’ll show you exactly how to come up with intros, riffs, and endings to augment your arrangements and performances. We’ll work with arpeggios, fingering, flatpicking, and more.

Learn Like Grandpa Did

All Skill Levels

(Saturday - Lexington Royal Palm - 3rd Period)

MD

Learn how to learn in a “do-as-I-do” style similar to what folks did in the old days. I’ll teach you step-by-step how to read hands like some people read sheet music. We’ll cover two or three tunes. Expect a bunch of encouraging and empowering tips.

Rick Thum

Intermediate

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 1st Period)

HD

Learn and play chords as back up. We will learn how to play the chords, how to know which chords to use in a song, and will play them in as many songs as time allows.

Advanced

(Friday - Lexington Royal Palm - 1st Period)

HD

Learn the Song "Benton's Dream" We will then learn how to embellish it using overlapping scales. This is a fun song made even more fun by looking at your scales a little differently.

Intermediate

(Friday - Comfort Inn Mallory Room - 4th Period)

HD

Learn how to use Syncopation. We will learn the song "Pleasure House Rag" It has a syncopation pattern in it. We will then look at how to change that pattern to fit other songs.

Advanced

Saturday - Lexington Courtyard - 2nd Period)

HD

Embellishments. I will be open to your questions on how do we do ______ (fill in the blank with your need). We can look at lots of ways to create embellishment and learn how to do them. This is a very fun and interactive class. Come with your questions ready.

Karen Mueller

Novice - Intermediate

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 2nd Period)

Playing well with others- adding the autoharp to a dulcimer group. The autoharp is a perfect complement to dulcimers. Learn a variety of rhythms to go with popular dulcimer tunes, and how to play basic melodies. Keys of G and D. Curious observers are welcome.

Advanced

Thursday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 4th Period)

From plain to wow: Starting with a basic strummed melody, transform tunes into dynamic crosspicked or fingerpicked arrangements that will really sing.

Intermediate

(Friday - Lexington Courtyard - 2nd Period)

Playing clean melodies- fiddle tunes, waltzes and familiar songs. Keys of G and D.

Advanced

Saturday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 2nd Period)

Tunes that use the 1 1/2 fret. From Irish to blues to haunting minor melodies and versatile chords, make the most of this extremely useful fret.

Gary Sager

Smooth Up Your Playing

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 1st Period)

Novice to Intermediate

Jump Into That Jam (Playing Backup Chords)

(Friday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 1st Period)

Novice to Intermediate

Waltzes

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 4th Period)

Novice to Intermediate

Hymns & Gospel Tunes

(Friday - Comfort Inn Patio 105 - 4th Period)

Intermediate to Advanced

Sue Carpenter

Fingerpicking Fills and Frills

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Patio 105 - 1st Period)

For anyone who already fingerpicks, this class will polish your skills. Focus will be on "choreographed" picking patterns and dynamics. Learn advanced techniques in easy exercises and then apply those techniques in an arrangement of “The Harp That Once.”

Tuning: DAD Intermediate

Celtic Airs and Waltzes

(Friday - Comfort Inn Patio 103 - 3rd Period)

If slow and beautiful is what you like, then you’ll love Sue’s arrangements of “Bright Quiet Eileen,” O’Carolan’s “Planxty Eleanor Plunkett,” and “Mo Ghile Mahr,” each arranged for fingerpicking but easily adapted to flatpicking. Tuning: DAD Intermediate to Advanced

Four Strings: Tricks, Kicks, and Licks

(Saturday - Lexington Courtyard - 3rd Period)

Learn how easy, jazzy, and full-sounding four equidistant strings can be with occasional simple chord fingering adjustments for the 4th string. We'll build on what you already play 3-string style and learn a new 4-string arrangement. Discover the difference and the possibilities. Tuning: DADD Intermediate

Heavenly Harmonics

(Saturday - Comfort Inn Mallory Room - 4th Period)

Harmonics are bell-like chimes played by lightly touching a string at the same time that you pick the string. Learn where natural harmonics are located on your dulcimer and discover ways to use them in your music. Discover the zen-like magic of playing “Westminster Chimes” and “Amazing Grace” using all harmonics. Tuning: DAD Intermediate to Advanced

Steve Eulberg

Beginning Hammered Dulcimer: Driver's Ed

(Thursday - Lexington Courtyard - 1st Period)

Map of the Dulcimer, Hammering, Doubled Notes, Horizontal, Modes & HD; Finding tunes; Right to left; Octave patterns. Tuning Game. Absolute Beginner to Advanced Beginner

Mountain Dulcimer Bossa Nova for DAd & FAC tunings TOGETHER (with Rob Brereton)

(Friday - Comfort Inn Mallory Room - 3rd Period)

Antonio Carlos Jobim’s “Wave” is a tune that demonstrates the beauty and breadth of dulcimers playing together in both familiar and unfamiliar ways. This class is for people who are nervous about leaving DAd tuning but want to explore a Latin tradition AND those who are ready to expand and explore! Beginner to Advanced

Mountain Dulcimer The Magic of the Capo

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 4th Period)

There’s a lot of terrific music out there that is not played in the key of D! The capo is an inexpensive and terrific tool that helps the mountain dulcimer be flexible and play in many keys and modes within a single tuning. We’ll play tunes in their original keys (of E Aeolian, G, A Mixolydian & A Dorian--so we are more prepared and welcomed in non-mountain- dulcimer-specific jam sessions). Advanced Beginner to Advanced

Learning to Play the Tunes You Love By Ear (All Instruments Welcome)

(Saturday - Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 2nd Period)

ALL

For the first 5-6 years of our lives we learned everything we know by observing with our eyes and ears. Then we went to school where we were taught how to read…and they spent the next 12 years telling us to sit down and listen (because we stopped using our ears!) We will re-awaken our ears, build an inner scaffold (based on our instrument of choice) of understanding upon which we can hang the tunes and fragments that come to our ears in order to play the tunes you want to play.

Butch Ross

The Roots of Rock-n-Roll: Rhythm

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 2nd Period)

From Doo Wop to Dylan, Chuck Berry to the Beatles Rock-n-Roll has lived in the beat, in this survey class we'll sample common beats, syncopation, swing and feel. You don’t have to play or even want to play rock-n-roll to take this class; what we learn here will inform your playing no matter WHAT your style is.

The Roots of Rock-n-Roll: Chords and Progressions

(Thursday- Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 3rd Period)

Just like Old Time, Jazz and Bluegrass, Rock-n-Roll has chord progressions and harmonic ideas that define it. We'll learn some of the rules of theory, and then learn which ones to break. While learning some of the most ionic progressions of the early days of rock-n-roll. You bring the dulcimer, Butch will bring the rockin' and a rollin' (Leather jackets and sunglasses not required but strongly encouraged).

Composition for Mortals 1: Creating Something From Nothing

(Friday - Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 2nd Period)

Using melodic games borrowed from Improv theater we will create a tune out of nothing. What kind of tune will it be? And what's it gonna sound like? I don't know, 'cuz YOU are gonna be the one who writes it. I'll show you some rules, and keep you from flying the airplane into the mountain, but you and your classmates are gonna write the song .

Composition for Mortals 2: From Tune To Arrangement

(Friday - Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 3rd Period)

Using the tune we wrote in the last class, we'll learn how to take it from a simple melody to a full-fledged arrangement. Techniques learned in this class can be applied creating arrangements of traditional material, putting your own stamp on existing arrangements or just making jam sessions more interesting and fun.

Guy George

Steel Drum 1

(Thursday - Lexington Royal Palm - 2nd Period)

Play an authentic steel drum, professionally tuned, and learn the basics in one class! This fun and easy to learn instrument will add that Caribbean flavor to any music group. We will learn a few tunes and harmonies, how to play a chord back-up, along with a little chord theory on the steel drum. Steel drums will be available before class or at our vending area - easy to transport home! Sorry, no loaners available.

Hammer Dulcimer

(Thursday - Lexington Royal Palm - 4th Period)

Blues on the HD - Jazz up your playing while learning a 12 Bar Blues jazz progression. Learn how to get that “bluesy” sound with blues chords and scale patterns. Playing the ‘Blues’ is fun!!

Pennywhistle 1
(Friday - Lexington Royal Palm - 3rd Period)
PW
Learn to play the easiest instrument to carry around. You will be playing a tune quickly - we’ll learn a simple calypso tune to take home with you! We will cover the basics - how to hold and finger the notes and sound good! Learn techniques for breathing, tonguing, and the scales to play in the key of “D” and “G” - all on one whistle! Great sounding, inexpensive whistles will be available before the class. Even if you’ve taken this class before, it’s a great review and we have added new tunes for learning!
Steel Drum 2
(Saturday - Lexington Royal Palm - 1st Period)
SD
Take your steel drum playing to the next step - we’ll concentrate more on chord playing and back-up and how to adjust to play in other keys as we learn some cool calypso tunes. This workshop will get you ready for the master class on Sunday!
Pennywhistle 2
(Saturday - Lexington Royal Palm - 4th Period)
PW
Pennywhistle Duets - We’ll be playing in 2 keys (on a D whistle), as we learn how to control breathing - all while we learn a few “Island” tunes from the Caribbean islands as well as a few from the ʻIrishʼ island. Melody and harmony parts for each! Learn a harmony part to play while others are playing melody in a jam or on stage!
Sharrie George
Ukulele 1
(Thursday - Comfort Inn Patio 105 - 3rd Period)
UKE
Learn and review the basics; tuning, chords and strumming patterns. We’ll learn back-up for some island tunes as well as a few jam tunes! If you are past beginner, we’ll give you some “extras” to play to spice up our chording! Great sounding, inexpensive ukuleles will be available for purchase before the class.
Guitar 1
(Friday - Comfort Inn Patio 105 - 1st Period)
GUI
Beginner basics - learn how to tune, play a few basic chords, and basic strums. We’ll show you back-up for a few jam tunes - and at least one caribbean tune! (Even if you aren’t ready to play them by the end of class, you’ll have the information you need to take with you for practice!)

Rob Brereton

A Singing Circle (with Rob Brereton)

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Mallory Room - 4th Period)

ALL VOX

Mountain Dulcimer Bossa Nova for DAd & FAC tunings TOGETHER (with Rob Brereton)

(Friday - Comfort Inn Mallory Room - 3rd Period)

Intermediate

(Saturday - Comfort Inn Pool Annex - 1st Period)

Beginners

(Saturday - Comfort Inn Patio 105 - 2nd Period)

Bing Futch

Performing For Others

(Thursday - Comfort Inn Patio 105 - 2nd Period)

ALL VOX

Playing your instrument is one thing; playing and singing is quite another. Add to that a set-list designed to entertain, stage business and poise, mindful dynamics and an unpredictable audience. This workshop is designed to get you thinking beyond simply singing with your instrument with an eye towards presenting it in a live setting. Whether it's bedside in hospice, in the church, at the park or on-stage somewhere under the lights! All instruments welcome. Intermediate to Advanced.

Project Studio/Home Recording

(Friday - Comfort Inn Patio 105 - 2nd Period)

Anyone with a laptop and decent software can record their music at home or on the road. Workshop will cover set-up, audio interfaces, microphone placement, engineering tips, using plug-ins and effects, mixing and equalization. (Must own laptop and functional recording software with microphone, headphones and audio interface.) Beginners To Advanced.

Native American Flute

(Friday - Lexington Courtyard - 3rd Period)

NAF

This beautiful, haunting and expressive instrument dates back 4000 years on the North American continent. Originally used in courtship and later in ceremonies, the Native American flute now enjoys great popularity in all types of music. You'll be surprised at just how easy it is to play! In this workshop, you'll learn basics: flute anatomy, how to hold it, breathing, scales, techniques and how to create your very own spirit song! Must have a Native American flute in the key of "B". You can bring your own flute or order one from Ray Wood at Island Flutes (be sure to ask for a bambo "B" flute and tell him it's for Bing's workshop.) Beginner to Advanced

I Got Those Mountain Dulcimer Blues

(Saturday - Lexington Royal Palm - 2nd Period)

Woke up this mornin', all my dulcimer played was the blues
woke up this mornin', all my dulcimer played was the blues
I'll give you chords, scales, riffs and rhythms
for playing the blues, you'll want to use!

By the time you leave this workshop, you will know how to play authentic Delta blues in the style of such legends as Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf and Charlie Patton. Intermediate to Advanced

Venue Announcement!

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 20:34:00 +0000

It's a beautiful day in Key West and we've been all over the island. The most notable news is that our workshops and vending will all be taking place at the Key West Comfort Inn (our host hotel at 3820 N. Roosevelt Blvd.) and the Lexington Hotel Key West (just across the parking lot at 3850 N. Roosevelt Blvd.) To insure the best rate, be sure to contact Sheri Cabanas at Conch Republic Concierge (305) 294-6019.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!!

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 20:38:00 +0000

Reserve your space now! Registration for the 3rd Annual Key West Dulcimer Fest - January 26th - 29th, 2012 - is now open!

Registration fee is $199 per person and that includes all workshops, concerts, special discounts and an accommodations coordinator. Contact Sheri Cabanas at (305) 294-6019 to arrange lodging. Workshop and venue information will be posted soon and this year's staff is made up of Rob Brereton, Sue Carpenter, Steve Eulberg, Robert Force, Bruce Ford, Bing Futch, Guy and Sharrie George, Thomasina Levy, Adam Miller, Karen Mueller, Butch Ross, Gary Sager, Stephen Seifert, Steve and Ruth Smith and Rick Thum.

Registration Form - 2012registration.pdf - print out and mail in!

Press Release - pressrelease.pdf

It's going to be another relaxing time in the tropics! We hope you'll come and join us as we enjoy the music and the magic of Key West!

Have You Signed Up?

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 12:43:00 +0000

We are days away from opening registration and squaring details for our venues in Key West! If you haven't signed up for the mailing list yet, be sure to do so and you'll be the first to know when registration is open! We have some exciting developments in the works (which is why this has taken so long), but know that we are on track for the 3rd Annual Key West Dulcimer Fest - January 26th - 29th, 2012 in Key West, Florida!

Registration: Coming Soon!

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Thu, 26 May 2011 20:38:00 +0000

The 3rd Annual Key West Dulcimer Fest returns to Key West, Florida January 26th-29th, 2012! Instructors include Steve Eulberg, Butch Ross, Rick Thum, Karen Mueller, Bing Futch, Guy and Sharrie George, Steve and Ruth Smith, Sue Carpenter, Thomasina Levy, Rob Brereton, Gary Sager, Adam Miller, Bruce Ford and more. Workshops include mountain dulcimer, hammered dulcimer, guitar, steel drum, pennywhistle, autoharp and Native American flute.

Thank You!

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 16:05:00 +0000

What a blast! After canceling the festival once and then starting it back up again as a "gathering", we had roughly half the number of instructors and attendees that we had last year. Pretty amazing - which means that folks just really wanted to get their Key West groove on this year, no matter what.

I've uploaded 102 pictures from the 2nd Annual Key West Dulcimer Fest on Facebook and you can view them all here. More photos are coming and if you have pictures that you took, please share them with us!

We're already talking about next year's festival - so be sure to join the mailing list if you haven't already so we can get you the latest information.

Thanks again to the instructors and to everyone who came down to the Southernmost Point in the United States to attend our second annual festival. We sure couldn't have done it without you!

In Key Largo: The Marlin Restaurant

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 19:52:00 +0000

By the time you reach Key Largo, the magic has probably begun to settle in. No longer are you looking at endless stretches of housing tracts, highway signs and interminable cityscape. Now, you've seen the convergence of the waters; the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico on either side of you. The giddiness begins to kick in: you're in the Florida Keys! Though you may be tempted to just blow straight through - you've already had a long drive, so enjoy the 2 hours and 40 minutes or so of cruising the Overseas Highway by stopping, getting out and looking around at what interests you. Speed limits in the Keys rarely get above 45 mph, so you'll have plenty of time to spot things that intrigue you.

If you're into Cuban food, or would like to try some, then stop over at The Marlin Restaurant in Key Largo. From paella to black beans and rice with plaintains, there's a lot to like about this local establishment. Grab something to go from the order window out front and nosh as you continue your trek south towards Tavernier, Islamorada and Marathon.

102770 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 451-2454

102770 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037.kmz (Google Earth)

In Florida City: Pack Up At Jack's

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 19:19:00 +0000

Today and tomorrow are big travel days for those of you driving down to Key West and hopefully, you'll be able to access the internet via phone while you do (or rather, your passenger should - you should focus on driving, of course.) For me and Jae, the Florida Turnpike is rather uninspiring (and those landfills can be nauseating), but we perk up as the countdown to exits rolls through 13, then 5 then finally, exit 0 (South Dixie Highway - U.S. 1.)

Once off of the Turnpike, you'll veer right and begin traveling on U.S. 1. Be warned that this is your last chance for about 40 minutes to make a restroom break, grab something to eat and drink or gas up and stretch your legs. Our traditional stop is at Jack's Bait & Tackle, which sounds like a lot less than it actually is. Yes, it's a bait and tackle shop. But there's also food, beverages, restrooms, t-shirts, hats, sundries and, oh yes, boiled peanuts. The cracking of shells and sucking of juices usually carries us all the way into Key Largo. If you've never had boiled peanuts - give 'em a try!

There is a Racetrac next door where you can gas up and shop a little more, if you like, but we like to support the mom and pop establishments that we run across in our travels and hopefully, you'll find Jack's as charming as we do.

35410 S Dixie Hwy (Overseas Highway)
Florida City 33034

Jack's Bait & Tackle.kmz (Google Earth)

Google Earth: Key West American Legion

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 17:41:00 +0000

As we did last year, we'll be posting some points of interest, things you should know and see, along with links and Google Earth files. These files, with the extension .kmz, will launch Google Earth and take you directly to the locations for each post.

For example, check out this link to the Key West American Legion:

Key West American Legion.kmz

Clicking on the link (either on your computer or Smartphone) will open Google Earth and take you directly to the spot we've highlighted (you may be prompted to choose a program with which to open the file.)

The journey from Florida City down through the Keys is one that should be enjoyed without rush. If you see little places along the way, stop in, grab a snack, look around. There is plenty of hidden treasure to be found on your trip to Key West!

Sponsor: Conch TV

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 19:13:00 +0000

We're thrilled to have Conch TV as a sponsor once again this year. They have some pretty nifty things going on, including a national television program called "Key West Time." Whether you love Key West or can't wait to get there, this is the series to be watching. It's fun, fast, informative, entertaining and, best of all, authentic!

"Get South" with our new promo!

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Sat, 15 Jan 2011 00:25:00 +0000

Island Cousin: Key West Food & Wine Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 18:16:00 +0000

While planning for our first festival last year, we suddenly discovered that the Key West Food & Wine Festival was also having its first festival on the exact same days!

This celebration of all things culinary welcomed us as a community partner in 2010 and we're pairing up again like Gewürtztraminer and cheesecake for 2011.

In fact, F&W festival-goers that show their registration badges get into the Friday and Saturday instructor concerts for $5!

Stay tuned for other cross-pollinating news between these two sophomore festivals.

keywestfoodandwinefestival.com

You Want This

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 16:27:00 +0000

Happy New Year!

We are just around the corner from a really good time down in the Keys. You want this file. It's got all the info you need to enjoy your week on Key West! May be updated - so check that it's the latest version.

Key West Dulcimer Fest Info.

If you haven't already, join the mailing list.

Follow us on Twitter or Facebook!

More to come - stay tuned...

Workshop Days and Times

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 19:22:00 +0000

Here's a list of all 31 workshops being offered at the 2nd Annual Key West Dulcimer Fest. There's a little biography of each instructor and descriptions of the workshops including the day and time that they are taking place. This list is subject to change - please use as an aid to assist you in planning out your festival experience. Workshops are pay as you go, with fees doing directly to the instructors. Costs per workshop will vary depending on material costs, but will be around $15 to $20 apiece.

Rob Brereton

Bio: Rob Brereton is considered one of the pioneers in contemporary mountain dulcimer playing. His years of studying classical guitar have polished his playing style while his degree in music theory and composition has given him a fresh approach to arranging.

Rob was one of the first dulcimer players to arrange extensively in the chromatic 1-3-5, and other alternate tunings. Although he specializes in the standards and early jazz tunes of D

Workshops:

Smoothing Out Your Playing (intermediate through advanced, but all are welcome)

What makes a great dulcimer player great? This workshop may answer that question. We'll go over a few of the most common mistakes in dulcimer playing technique as well as the dulcimer "big secret" to smoothing out your playing. We'll then apply this to an Irish tuning arranged in chord/melody style. Let's finally make the dulcimer sound the way YOU want it to sound. Tune D-A-d.
Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Capos and Tunings. (all levels above beginner)

This class will show you not only how to use a capo but also why capos work. We'll also unravel all the mysteries of tunings and modes. Rob is known for being able to break down difficult musical concepts into easy to understand and usable information. We'll take one modal tune and play it in two tunings and two capo positions and, more importantly, we'll actually see why it all works. Starting tuning: D-A-d
Friday 9-10:30 a.m.

Fancy Strums and Chords (beginner-intermediate, but all are welcome)
Thursday 3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Let's learn about playing chords. We'll discover chord shapes and then find your own unique strumming patterns, We'll also go over some good right hand techniques. Repertoire pieces will include songs with a Caribbean flair.

Arranging Chromatic Music on the Mountain Dulcimer (Advanced)

Rob is considered a contemporary dulcimer pioneer and a trail blazer in contemporary dulcimer arranging. He has been arranging chromatic music and stretching the boundaries of dulcimer repertoire for over 20 years. This class, one of Rob's signature classes, will show how to arrange chromatic music in the 1-3-5 (D-F#-A) tuning as well as a discussion on other chromatic tunings, and lots of arranging tips you can apply to any tuning. It's not for the faint of heart, but well worth the effort. You must know how to read music for this class.
Sunday 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Steve Eulberg

Bio: An Award-winning multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter, Steve Eulberg weaves mountain and hammered dulcimers with a variety of unusual instruments to create thought-provoking, smile-inducing, toe-tapping acoustic experiences.

He has sung and composed for religious communities, union halls, picket lines, inter-faith retreats, mountain-top youth camps, as well as the more familiar venues: clubs, coffeehouses, bookstores, festivals, charity benefits and showcase concerts.

Eulberg passionately believes that music crosses cultural and language barriers because music builds community. Influenced by a variety of ethnic styles, his music weaves vital lyric with rap, rock, folk, gospel and blues. Audiences of all ages respond well to his presentation and to his warm sense of humor.

Beginning Hammered Dulcimer: Driver's Ed
Thursday 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Hammered Dulcimer: Learning To Use Those Other Tools On Your Belt (Intermediate - Advanced)
Friday 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Mountain Dulcimer: Another Jig Will Do (Intermediate - Advanced)
Sunday 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Mountain Dulcimer: Tae Bo For The Left Hand (Intermediate)
Saturday 3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Bruce Ford

Bio: He founded EverythingDulcimer.com in January of 2002 and is still active with the site. He is a strong advocate for children’s involvement with dulcimers and always stands eager to expose folks to them. Bruce has performed at festivals and concerts in the Southeast using dulcimers and other instruments. He mixes the many sides of the dulcimer with engaging, pleasing vocals for memorable performances of old time, folks and Gospel music. In late 2008, Bruce released his first CD entitled “Gator Clubbin’ Society” garnering very favorable reviews.

Bruce resides in Jacksonville, Florida with his wife and family.

Workshops:

It’s Hard to Sing in a Bad Mood!

The mountain dulcimer was MADE to accompany our voices and it does it beautifully! Don’t our voices make a fine accompaniment to our island setting? This workshop is designed to have you singing quickly, confidently and without stress. Learn what chords to play and when, how to simplify your playing so you can sing, placing the song you want to sing into your vocal range, and transposing tunes into a dulcimer-friendly key. Lots of singing examples are provided in this participatory class! You’ll leave singing with some great songs to add to your repertoire. (All levels!)
Friday 1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.

The Break-through Machine

Have you plateau-ed? Do you need to supercharge your practice sessions so you can blast off to the next level? Bruce will walk you through tried and proven methods for breaking through. You’ll leave this workshop having practice these methods, lots to work on in the coming weeks, and well on your way to the next level (Intermediate)
Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Jam Survival

What If I Don’t Know That Song? – Are you one of those folks who stop playing at a jam when you don’t know the song? That robs you of potential enjoyment! This workshop teaches you the background…the “secret” to playing ALL the songs. The information passed along here will open the floodgates of your enjoyment of the mountain dulcimer. (Note from Bruce: “This is one of my favorite workshops to teach because with a few simple concepts, I see the light come on with folks. That’s what it’s all about for me.” (Beg/Intermediate)
Thursday 1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Gospel in the Tropics

Bruce will pick out 5 less well-known, easy to play Gospel songs for us to play and sing. The emphasis will be on playing while singing in a relaxed way. Each of these songs will be structure in a way that it will be easy to take these tunes back to your group, church or clubs. You’ll get chords and lyrics for each. If time permits, this workshop will break into a Gospel jam that’ll include the favorites that everyone knows (e.g., I’ll Fly Away, Will the Circle Be Unbroken, When the Roll is Called Up Yonder, etc.)
Friday 9 - 10:30 a.m.

Bing Futch

Bio: As a solo performer, Bing's high-energy, crowd pleasing shows and unique approach to the mountain dulcimer combined have made him a much-sought national act from California to Connecticut. Named 2006 "Songwriter of the Year" by the Songwriters Showcases of America (with a 2007 "Song of the Year" award for "Crazy Feels Like"), Bing has become a regularly featured artist at festivals, house concerts, Irish and British pubs and other venues across the country. He's opened for Grammy-award nominated artists Sam & Ruby, bluesman Scott Ainslie, singer/songwriter Larry Mangum, shared the stage with Zydeco king Chubby Carrier, Tom Constanten (The Grateful Dead), national fingerstyle guitar champion Michael Chapdelaine, produced numerous recordings and has published several songbooks.

Alongside his performing career, Bing has become a popular instructor of the mountain dulcimer and Native American flute and his video podcast, "Dulcimerica", has been seen and downloaded by over half a million unique viewers. He is the founder of the Key West Dulcimer Fest.

Workshops:

How One Little Fret Will Change Your Life

More and more players are adding the 1+ and 8+ frets to their dulcimers and loving it. In this workshop, I'll show you how these frets can be useful for not only playing tunes, but also understanding the basics of music theory. If you don't have a 1+ fret on your dulcimer, we'll help you put a temporary one in using our materials.
All Levels
Saturday 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Exploring An Aeolian World

We'll get warm and cuddly with the dark and mysterious Aeolian mode, both by tuning (DAC) and via capo (1st fret.) We'll learn scales, chords and popular traditional tunes written in this mode, including "Shady Grove", "Road To Lisdoonvarna" and "Cluck Old Hen."
Intermediate.
Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

I Got Those Mountain Dulcimer Blues

A big hit and well-attended workshop at the first annual KWDF, this class digs into the meat and potatoes behind playing authentic Delta blues on the mountain dulcimer. Working from scales and chord-building towards song form and solo improvisation, you *will* leave this workshop able to play the blues!
Intermediate to Advanced.
Friday 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Native American Flute 101

The haunting tones of the Native American flute have captivated folks for thousands of years and now, you too can learn how to play this extraordinary instrument. Get in tune with the basics of creating tone easily, incorporating technique and reading tablature. Finally, you'll be shown the way to create your own music. Must have a Native American flute in the key of "B" (which works well with mountain dulcimers.) If you don't have one, there will be some available for sale before the workshop or you can pick one up before the festival at IslandFlutes.com
Saturday 1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Guy George

Bio: Guy George is a multi-faceted instrumentalist with jazz inﬂuenced roots. He has made his mark in the dulcimer world as a performer, instructor, author/publisher and recording artist. His diverse playing style adds a different twist to the sounds of the hammered dulcimer, steel drum, pennywhistle and saxophone, all of which he incorporates into his performances and teaching.

A professional musician most of his life, Guy studied jazz performance, arranging and composition at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mass. He travels throughout the United States and Canada performing and teaching at various types of venues and festivals.

Workshops:

Beginning Pennywhistle

Learn to play the easiest instrument to carry around. You will be playing a tune quickly! We will cover the basics - how to hold and ﬁnger the notes and sound good! Learn techniques for breathing, tonguing, and the scales to play in the key of “D” and “G” - all on one whistle! Great sounding, inexpensive whistles will be available before the class.
Thursday 3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Intermediate Pennywhistle

Note:(Please schedule AFTER Beginning Pennywhistle class)
We will spend more time on playing in different keys, and how to control breathing while we learn a few “Island” tunes from the Caribbean islands as well as a few from the ʻIrishʼ island. Weʼll learn harmonies for some if time permits.
Friday 3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Beginning Steel Drum

Play an authentic steel drum, professionally tuned, and learn the basics in one class! This fun and easy to learn instrument will add that Caribbean ﬂavor to any music group. We will learn a few tunes and harmonies, how to play a chord back-up, along with a little chord theory on the steel drum. Take your steel drum home with you! (Drum is easy to transport home) Cost of class - $215.00 - includes steel drum.
Friday 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Intermediate Steel Drum

Take your steel drum playing to the next level - even for the newer players. This class will emphasize chording and calypso rhythms in the keys of “D” and “G”. Calypso tunes will be taught with melody, harmony, chord back-up, and bass lines. This class will get you playing right away with your ʻgroupʼ - adding that great calypso ﬂavor! Wear your Hawaiian shirt!
Saturday 3:30 - 5 p.m.

Hammered Dulcimers on the Islands

Take a trip to the islands! Learn what it takes to create that “Island Feel” on your hammered dulcimer. Learn some new tunes from the islands. Musicality will be emphasized as we learn back-up parts and harmonies to use in your dulcimer or other music group.As time permits, we will also focus on calypso rhythms and embellishments, improvising with a calypso feel, “vamping” and creating your own interludes for tunes.
Sunday 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Sharrie Bulzan

Mrs. Guy George, as she's sometimes known, is a great performer and instructor in her own right. Here, she'll be offering workshops on some of the other stringed instruments that you'll find hanging around dulcimer festivals.

Beginning Guitar
Always wanted to strum a few chords and back-up another instrument? You can be playing some simple jam tunes in days with the information and practice youʼll have from this class. We will learn how to form some basic chords, a few simple strums, and how to tune your guitar. Weʼll even try to play an easy jam tune!
Friday 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Beginning Ukulele
Learn the basics; tuning, chords and strumming patterns. Weʼll learn back-up for some island tunes as well as a few jam tunes! Time permitting, we can try backing up singers (ourselves!) while playing. We will have ukuleles for sale at the vending area before the class.
Thursday 1:30 p.m - 3 p.m.

Butch Ross

Bio: Ross had been a touring singer/songwriter when he was given a mountain dulcimer as a birthday present. At first, the instrument was a curiosity but before too long it became his instrument of choice. A chance meeting with musician, author and producer Robert Force (himself a dulcimer iconoclast) led to the 2005 release "The Moonshiner's Atlas" and a complete change of focus.

Since then Ross has become an in-demand performer at folk and dulcimer festivals through the US and Europe. He's performed at such festivals as the Central Ohio Folk Festival, Falcon Ridge Folk Festival, Lancaster (UK) Music Fest and the Philadelphia Folk Festival.

Workshops:

Dead Simple Tunes

Get your playing off to a running start with a handful of fun, yet really easy tunes. (Beginner)
Saturday 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

I Don't Improvise, I Just Make Stuff Up

You don't need to be Steve Seifert or Jerry Rockwell to be a great improviser. In this class we'll learn the tips and techniques (and a couple tricks) you need to make your playing fun and interesting whether you're by yourself or in a group. (Intermediate/Advanced)
Thursday 9-10:30 a.m.

Keys to the Kingdom.

Brand new dulcimer? Been playing for years and still feel like you're just a beginner? well in this "bootcamp" for beginning dulcimerist we'll learn the fundamentals of strumming, chords, fingering, and even a little theory (but nothin' too scary). In short, everything you need for a solid foundation as a dulcimer player. (Beginner/Intermediate)
Friday 3:30 - 5 p.m.

Syncopation and the 16th Note

Fear not the dreaded 16th note. we'll learn how to use this tiny increment of time to unlock expressive playing and make complicated rhythms easy and fun. (Advanced)
Sunday 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Gary Sager

Bio: Known as the “dulcimer doctor” at many festivals across the country, Gary Sager is a fine luthier of mountain dulcimers. His instruments are hand made of quality solid wood and are known for their rich tone and playability. Gary's dulcimers carry the Prussia Valley Dulcimer name.

He is also a fine performer and arranger of tunes, usually along with his wife, Toni. They have one album to their credit entitled “Rats In The Fence Corner” and are also instructors at many national festivals.

Workshops:

Repertoire:
Other Fiddle Tunes-Intermediate
Sunday 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Some Easy Waltzes- Nov/Int
Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Flat Picking a Tune or Two-Intermediate
Saturday 1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Venue Announcement!

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 18:19:00 +0000

The 2nd Annual Key West Dulcimer Fest will be held once again at the Key West American Legion (5610 College Road) for four days of laid-back, tropical fun in the sun! If you haven't already, pre-register for the festival by joining the mailing list. You can enter your e-mail address directly into the box at the top left corner of this page.

The mailing list is being powered by Reverbnation and we have a page there that will tie into all of the other social media connected with the festival (i.e. Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, etc.)

Soon, a schedule grid will be posted here and, based on that, you'll be asked to choose your workshops and send them back to us so we can estimate attendance for each class. You can always change your mind, but this will give us a good idea of where to place the workshop sites.

Be sure to book your accommodations through Sheri Cabanas at Key West Concierge: (305) 294-6019

We'll have more info soon - thanks for checking back with us!

2nd Annual Key West Dulcimer Fest: UPDATE!

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 04:29:00 +0000

It's almost time!

Just giving you an update on how things are progressing. As you might've noticed below, we now have listed each of the 32 workshops that will be available over the course of four days. We are talking with our host venue and assuring that everything is in readiness. Once we've settled the details, the announcement will be made both here and to everyone on the mailing list. If you're not on the mailing list, be sure to e-mail me at bingfutch@yahoo.com and say, "Hey! Put me on the mailing list!" I'll be sure to do that!

After that - things are going to start moving fairly quickly - so be sure to stay tuned as more information comes in. Thanks for checking back with us - talk to you soon!

Aloha,

Bing

Instructors & Workshops

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:36:00 +0000

Aloha!

We're getting closer to our second annual festival and here is a list of our instructors and the workshops that are being offered. Click on the instructor's name to visit their websites:

Rob Brereton

Bio: Rob Brereton is considered one of the pioneers in contemporary mountain dulcimer playing. His years of studying classical guitar have polished his playing style while his degree in music theory and composition has given him a fresh approach to arranging.

Rob was one of the first dulcimer players to arrange extensively in the chromatic 1-3-5, and other alternate tunings. Although he specializes in the standards and early jazz tunes of D

Workshops:

Smoothing Out Your Playing (intermediate through advanced, but all are welcome)

What makes a great dulcimer player great? This workshop may answer that question. We'll go over a few of the most common mistakes in dulcimer playing technique as well as the dulcimer "big secret" to smoothing out your playing. We'll then apply this to an Irish tuning arranged in chord/melody style. Let's finally make the dulcimer sound the way YOU want it to sound. Tune D-A-d.

Capos and Tunings. (all levels above beginner)

This class will show you not only how to use a capo but also why capos work. We'll also unravel all the mysteries of tunings and modes. Rob is known for being able to break down difficult musical concepts into easy to understand and usable information. We'll take one modal tune and play it in two tunings and two capo positions and, more importantly, we'll actually see why it all works. Starting tuning: D-A-d

Fancy Strums and Chords (beginner-intermediate, but all are welcome)

Let's learn about playing chords. We'll discover chord shapes and then find your own unique strumming patterns, We'll also go over some good right hand techniques. Repertoire pieces will include songs with a Caribbean flair.

Arranging Chromatic Music on the Mountain Dulcimer (Advanced)

Rob is considered a contemporary dulcimer pioneer and a trail blazer in contemporary dulcimer arranging. He has been arranging chromatic music and stretching the boundaries of dulcimer repertoire for over 20 years. This class, one of Rob's signature classes, will show how to arrange chromatic music in the 1-3-5 (D-F#-A) tuning as well as a discussion on other chromatic tunings, and lots of arranging tips you can apply to any tuning. It's not for the faint of heart, but well worth the effort. You must know how to read music for this class.

Steve Eulberg

Bio: An Award-winning multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter, Steve Eulberg weaves mountain and hammered dulcimers with a variety of unusual instruments to create thought-provoking, smile-inducing, toe-tapping acoustic experiences.

He has sung and composed for religious communities, union halls, picket lines, inter-faith retreats, mountain-top youth camps, as well as the more familiar venues: clubs, coffeehouses, bookstores, festivals, charity benefits and showcase concerts.

Eulberg passionately believes that music crosses cultural and language barriers because music builds community. Influenced by a variety of ethnic styles, his music weaves vital lyric with rap, rock, folk, gospel and blues. Audiences of all ages respond well to his presentation and to his warm sense of humor.

Beginning Hammered Dulcimer: Driver's Ed

Hammered Dulcimer: Learning To Use Those Other Tools On Your Belt (Intermediate - Advanced)

Mountain Dulcimer: Another Jig Will Do (Intermediate - Advanced)

Mountain Dulcimer: Tae Bo For The Left Hand (Intermediate)

Bruce Ford

Bio: He founded EverythingDulcimer.com in January of 2002 and is still active with the site. He is a strong advocate for children’s involvement with dulcimers and always stands eager to expose folks to them. Bruce has performed at festivals and concerts in the Southeast using dulcimers and other instruments. He mixes the many sides of the dulcimer with engaging, pleasing vocals for memorable performances of old time, folks and Gospel music. In late 2008, Bruce released his first CD entitled “Gator Clubbin’ Society” garnering very favorable reviews.

Bruce resides in Jacksonville, Florida with his wife and family.

Workshops:

It’s Hard to Sing in a Bad Mood!

The mountain dulcimer was MADE to accompany our voices and it does it beautifully! Don’t our voices make a fine accompaniment to our island setting? This workshop is designed to have you singing quickly, confidently and without stress. Learn what chords to play and when, how to simplify your playing so you can sing, placing the song you want to sing into your vocal range, and transposing tunes into a dulcimer-friendly key. Lots of singing examples are provided in this participatory class! You’ll leave singing with some great songs to add to your repertoire. (All levels!)

The Break-through Machine

Have you plateau-ed? Do you need to supercharge your practice sessions so you can blast off to the next level? Bruce will walk you through tried and proven methods for breaking through. You’ll leave this workshop having practice these methods, lots to work on in the coming weeks, and well on your way to the next level (Intermediate)

Jam Survival

What If I Don’t Know That Song? – Are you one of those folks who stop playing at a jam when you don’t know the song? That robs you of potential enjoyment! This workshop teaches you the background…the “secret” to playing ALL the songs. The information passed along here will open the floodgates of your enjoyment of the mountain dulcimer. (Note from Bruce: “This is one of my favorite workshops to teach because with a few simple concepts, I see the light come on with folks. That’s what it’s all about for me.” (Beg/Intermediate)

Gospel in the Tropics

Bruce will pick out 5 less well-known, easy to play Gospel songs for us to play and sing. The emphasis will be on playing while singing in a relaxed way. Each of these songs will be structure in a way that it will be easy to take these tunes back to your group, church or clubs. You’ll get chords and lyrics for each. If time permits, this workshop will break into a Gospel jam that’ll include the favorites that everyone knows (e.g., I’ll Fly Away, Will the Circle Be Unbroken, When the Roll is Called Up Yonder, etc.)

Bing Futch

Bio: As a solo performer, Bing's high-energy, crowd pleasing shows and unique approach to the mountain dulcimer combined have made him a much-sought national act from California to Connecticut. Named 2006 "Songwriter of the Year" by the Songwriters Showcases of America (with a 2007 "Song of the Year" award for "Crazy Feels Like"), Bing has become a regularly featured artist at festivals, house concerts, Irish and British pubs and other venues across the country. He's opened for Grammy-award nominated artists Sam & Ruby, bluesman Scott Ainslie, singer/songwriter Larry Mangum, shared the stage with Zydeco king Chubby Carrier, Tom Constanten (The Grateful Dead), national fingerstyle guitar champion Michael Chapdelaine, produced numerous recordings and has published several songbooks.

Alongside his performing career, Bing has become a popular instructor of the mountain dulcimer and Native American flute and his video podcast, "Dulcimerica", has been seen and downloaded by over half a million unique viewers. He is the founder of the Key West Dulcimer Fest.

Workshops:

How One Little Fret Will Change Your Life

More and more players are adding the 1+ and 8+ frets to their dulcimers and loving it. In this workshop, I'll show you how these frets can be useful for not only playing tunes, but also understanding the basics of music theory. If you don't have a 1+ fret on your dulcimer, we'll help you put a temporary one in using our materials.
Intermediate.

Exploring An Aeolian World

We'll get warm and cuddly with the dark and mysterious Aeolian mode, both by tuning (DAC) and via capo (1st fret.) We'll learn scales, chords and popular traditional tunes written in this mode, including "Shady Grove", "Road To Lisdoonvarna" and "Cluck Old Hen."
Intermediate.

I Got Those Mountain Dulcimer Blues

A big hit and well-attended workshop at the first annual KWDF, this class digs into the meat and potatoes behind playing authentic Delta blues on the mountain dulcimer. Working from scales and chord-building towards song form and solo improvisation, you *will* leave this workshop able to play the blues!
Intermediate to Advanced.

Native American Flute 101

The haunting tones of the Native American flute have captivated folks for thousands of years and now, you too can learn how to play this extraordinary instrument. Get in tune with the basics of creating tone easily, incorporating technique and reading tablature. Finally, you'll be shown the way to create your own music. Must have a Native American flute in the key of "B" (which works well with mountain dulcimers.) If you don't have one, there will be some available for sale before the workshop or you can pick one up before the festival at IslandFlutes.com

Guy George

Bio: Guy George is a multi-faceted instrumentalist with jazz inﬂuenced roots. He has made his mark in the dulcimer world as a performer, instructor, author/publisher and recording artist. His diverse playing style adds a different twist to the sounds of the hammered dulcimer, steel drum, pennywhistle and saxophone, all of which he incorporates into his performances and teaching.

A professional musician most of his life, Guy studied jazz performance, arranging and composition at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mass. He travels throughout the United States and Canada performing and teaching at various types of venues and festivals.

Workshops:

Beginning Pennywhistle

Learn to play the easiest instrument to carry around. You will be playing a tune quickly! We will cover the basics - how to hold and ﬁnger the notes and sound good! Learn techniques for breathing, tonguing, and the scales to play in the key of “D” and “G” - all on one whistle! Great sounding, inexpensive whistles will be available before the class.

Intermediate Pennywhistle

Note:(Please schedule AFTER Beginning Pennywhistle class)
We will spend more time on playing in different keys, and how to control breathing while we learn a few “Island” tunes from the Caribbean islands as well as a few from the ʻIrishʼ island. Weʼll learn harmonies for some if time permits.

Beginning Steel Drum

Play an authentic steel drum, professionally tuned, and learn the basics in one class! This fun and easy to learn instrument will add that Caribbean ﬂavor to any music group. We will learn a few tunes and harmonies, how to play a chord back-up, along with a little chord theory on the steel drum. Take your steel drum home with you! (Drum is easy to transport home) Cost of class - $215.00 - includes steel drum.

Intermediate Steel Drum

Take your steel drum playing to the next level - even for the newer players. This class will emphasize chording and calypso rhythms in the keys of “D” and “G”. Calypso tunes will be taught with melody, harmony, chord back-up, and bass lines. This class will get you playing right away with your ʻgroupʼ - adding that great calypso ﬂavor! Wear your Hawaiian shirt!

Hammered Dulcimers on the Islands

Take a trip to the islands! Learn what it takes to create that “Island Feel” on your hammered dulcimer. Learn some new tunes from the islands. Musicality will be emphasized as we learn back-up parts and harmonies to use in your dulcimer or other music group.As time permits, we will also focus on calypso rhythms and embellishments, improvising with a calypso feel, “vamping” and creating your own interludes for tunes.

Butch Ross

Bio: Ross had been a touring singer/songwriter when he was given a mountain dulcimer as a birthday present. At first, the instrument was a curiosity but before too long it became his instrument of choice. A chance meeting with musician, author and producer Robert Force (himself a dulcimer iconoclast) led to the 2005 release "The Moonshiner's Atlas" and a complete change of focus.

Since then Ross has become an in-demand performer at folk and dulcimer festivals through the US and Europe. He's performed at such festivals as the Central Ohio Folk Festival, Falcon Ridge Folk Festival, Lancaster (UK) Music Fest and the Philadelphia Folk Festival.

Workshops:

Dead Simple Tunes

Get your playing off to a running start with a handful of fun, yet really easy tunes. (Beginner)

I Don't Improvise, I Just Make Stuff Up

You don't need to be Steve Seifert or Jerry Rockwell to be a great improviser. In this class we'll learn the tips and techniques (and a couple tricks) you need to make your playing fun and interesting whether you're by yourself or in a group. (Intermediate/Advanced)

Keys to the Kingdom.

Brand new dulcimer? Been playing for years and still feel like you're just a beginner? well in this "bootcamp" for beginning dulcimerist we'll learn the fundamentals of strumming, chords, fingering, and even a little theory (but nothin' too scary). In short, everything you need for a solid foundation as a dulcimer player. (Beginner/Intermediate)

Syncopation and the 16th Note

Fear not the dreaded 16th note. we'll learn how to use this tiny increment of time to unlock expressive playing and make complicated rhythms easy and fun. (Advanced)

Gary Sager

Bio: Known as the “dulcimer doctor” at many festivals across the country, Gary Sager is a fine luthier of mountain dulcimers. His instruments are hand made of quality solid wood and are known for their rich tone and playability. Gary's dulcimers carry the Prussia Valley Dulcimer name.

He is also a fine performer and arranger of tunes, usually along with his wife, Toni. They have one album to their credit entitled “Rats In The Fence Corner” and are also instructors at many national festivals.

Workshops:

Repertoire:
Other Fiddle Tunes-Intermediate
Some Easy Waltzes- Nov/Int

Techniques:
Smooth Out Your Strumming-Nov/Int
Flat Picking a Tune or Two-Intermediate

Pre-Register NOW!

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:44:00 +0000

If you're interested in attending the 2nd Annual Key West Dulcimer Fest coming up January 27th - 30th, 2011 - e-mail me and I'll get you on the list. There is no registration fee and I'll be posting workshops from our instructors as soon as they come in.

For information on accommodations, contact Sheri Cabanas.

Will have details on venue soon!

Aloha,

Bing

Dulcimerica 162 - "Key West Dulcimer Fest Pt. 4"

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:21:00 +0000

Dulcimerica 161 - "Key West Dulcimer Fest Pt. 3"

noreply@blogger.com (Bing Futch) — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:20:00 +0000