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Workshop for Scottish Fiddle, Winston-Salem

Workshop for Scottish Fiddle

Participants should have a rudimentary knowledge of fingering and bowing and be able to play a few simple tunes. $25 per person

Scottish fiddle is primarily about making people want to dance. We'll start by learning the generic, stripped down versions of several classic tunes (reels, jigs, strathspeys, hornpipes). As the class progresses we'll add layers of dance-inducing devices into the tunes. Slurred bowings are one of the most requested concerns of students; we'll delve deeply into this area by learning the bowing patterns which provide the best groove. We'll work on different ways of putting rhythmic accents on specific notes and phrase endings to add excitement. After introducing several kinds of Scottish (and Irish) ornaments, we'll work on making them not only rhythmically accurate, but actually using them to give more lift and drive to the tune. We'll always use efficient practicing methods that yield the quickest results. As we go, I will often point out how tunes are constructed in organized patterns based on a few simple harmonies. I'll teach the class primarily by ear, but sheet music of tunes and bowing styles will be given for home study. We will encourage a fun, supportive learning environment in which no-one will be singled out. Audio recorders welcome.

Tryon-based violinist, guitarist, and storyteller Jamie Laval is recognized as one of the premier Celtic performers and instructors on the international music scene today. Winner of the 2002 U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Championship, Jamie has performed for Her Majesty The Queen and recorded with Dave Matthews. His most recent album, Murmurs and Drones, won the popular vote for Best World Traditional Album in the 2012 Independent Music Awards.

Jamie studied classical violin at the Victoria Conservatory of Music and was a member of several professional symphony orchestras in the Pacific Northwest before devoting himself exclusively to Irish and Scottish music. Esteemed as an educator, Jamie teaches privately and in class settings. He has been a guest instructor at Joyful Noice Summer Music Camp, St. Andrews University (Laurinburg, NC), Davidson College, California State University (San Marcos), The John C. Campbell Folk School, and for 5 years was on the faculty of the Swannanoa Gathering.

Jamie was a speaker for TEDx Tryon in Sept. 2015.