Worksops and Sessions

Apolline (VIC)

Workshop - Introduction to chopping

Learn how to do the extended string technique ‘the chop’ on fiddle and cello. We will learn the groundwork for creating grooves for reels and jigs and discuss how to apply it in accompaniment settings for Celtic tunes.

RSL: Sunday: 12.30-1.30 pm 

Brushwood (SA)

Workshop - Bodhran

Bodhran Workshop with Joe Cairns and friends. Joe will teach you the techniques of Bodhran playing and the etiquette of playing in sessions! Bring your own Bodhran for maximum benefit.

RSL: Sunday: 10.00 - 11.00 am 

Cory Thornton (SA)

How To Provide A High-Quality Stage Plan - Providing Technical requirements for your next gig - with Corey Thornton

Learn how to complete a stage plan that provides all the necessary information to the Sound Engineer. This will help to ensure you start on time, maximise your playing time, improve your playing experience, keep things smooth and relaxed, help to reduce stress and nerves and ensure that your performance is at a professional standard.

RSL: Saturday: 10.00 – 10.20 am

Fiddle We Must (SA)

String Band Workshop

Bring your fiddles, guitars, banjos etc. We will discuss, demonstrate and teach you about American string band music, including the range of styles and the roles of the instruments. We will teach at least one tune in detail (two if time), phrase by phrase. Recording devices will be helpful.

Session

Want to join in with some Old Time Music - bring your fiddles, guitars, banjos, etc. We would love to see you!

Pete’s Bar Session: Saturday: 12.45 - 1.45 pm

RSL: 3.00 - 4.00 pm

GOLDHEIST (NSW)

Choral Workshop

Singing is fun and a wonderful way to connect with music and each other. Singing in a group means singers of ALL ages and skill levels can participate in a safe and inclusive creative space.

Participants will learn some simple acappella songs which can be sung in a round, an ancient and easy way of singing in harmony to great effect. A good example of one of the pieces explored in this workshop is the "Babylon" round from Don Maclean's American Pie album.

Some songs can be paired with basic choreography, a great method to get the body moving and the blood pumping, releasing energy in a positive and creative way.

With a strong background in choral singing, GOLDHEIST will teach participants aurally and visually, so no ability to read music is required.

RSL: Sunday: 11.15 am - 12.15 pm

McHarg Creek (SA)

Basic Fingerpicking (Travis Picking) with McHarg Creek

This technique of fingerpicking is not hard to learn, with some dedicated practice) and will unlock a wide range of songs with its versatility. If you are a competent beginner or intermediate player who is comfortable with basic guitar chords, this workshop will allow you to transform your performance and play some great music like your guitar heroes. Think John Prine, Bob Dylan, Paul Simon and Kansas (Dust in the Wind), whose songs will feature in this workshop with Michael McGregor.  Runs for an hour. Participants will need a guitar.

RSL: Sunday: 1.45 - 2.45 pm

Oceanique (WA) 

Creative songwriting workshop with Oceanique

Creative songwriting workshop: over the one-hour session, participants will discover new ways to find inspiration for writing their own songs with fun activities to get the creative juices flowing.

RSL: Saturday: 1.30 - 2.30 pm 

Rob Barratt  (UK)

Improv comedy for beginners with Rob Barratt

Rob Barratt presents an introduction to improvisational comedy for beginners through warm-up activities and structured improv games, some of which you may know from the TV programme “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”. The emphasis is not on trying to be funny but on people listening to and supporting their co-performers. Participants will find themselves in unusual situations and use audience suggestions to play the games. No previous experience is needed. Fun!

Show Hall: Sunday: 12.00 - 1.00 pm 

Sharradogg (SA)

Celtic Rhythm - Guitar and Melodeon workshop with Sharradogg

Joins Sharradogg for a demonstration of guitar rhythms and techniques for traditional Celtic tunes. Overview of DADGAD tuning and demonstration.

RSL: Sunday: 3.00 - 4.00 pm

Session

Come and join Sharradogg for a Folk Music and Song session! 

Pete’s Bar: Saturday: 11.30 am - 12.30 pm

Simon Basey (SA)

Songwriters - elevate your lyrics workshop with Simon Basey

Simon will discuss some of the things every songwriter needs to think about when writing a song. From the glaringly obvious to the subtle nuances, Simon will talk through what to consider to make your music elevate your lyrics.

RSL: Saturday: 11.00 am - 12.00 pm

Skiffle Party (VIC)

Skiffle Workshop! with Skiffle Party!

Bring your instruments and learn the basics of this fun and remarkable style of folk music. Floyd, Tom and Adam will take you through the precursors, history and legacy of skiffle music and have everyone jamming along on some classic skiffle tunes. (1 hour)

RSL workshop: Saturday: 12.15 - 1.00 pm

Pete’s Bar Session: Saturday: 2.30 - 3.30 pm 

The Water Runners (NSW)

Session

Come and join The Water Runners for a Shanty Session! 

Pete’s Bar: Sunday: 11.00 am -12.00 pm 

Willunga Ukuleles (SA)

Session

Come and join Willunga Ukuleles in a Ukulele play/singalong 

Pete’s Bar: Sunday: 2.30 - 3.30 pm 

Adelaide Empire Band (SA)

Dance Session

The Adelaide Empire Band is a rollicking big band of musicians from the colonial City of Adelaide pumping out traditional tunes from the British Empire. Spectacular to watch and toe-tappingly enticing to dance to, the Adelaide Empire Band features a dazzling array of instruments playing unique medleys. Come down to the Show Hall to join in the fun; no previous experience is necessary. All ages, singles and couples are welcome. All dances will be called by Annie Thornton.

Show Hall: Saturday 6.30 pm – 8.30 pm

Session

A traditional feature at the Fleurieu Folk Festival every year is the Big English Session in what is now known as "Pete's Bar". Peter Thornton enjoyed all sessions but wanted to devote one to English tunes, which often got missed in the proliferation of Irish, Australian, Scottish and other sessions. For over 10 years, this session is one we all look forward to.

Pete’s Bar – The Big English Session: Sunday: 1.00 -2.00 pm

Adelaide Morris Men (SA)

Come ‘n Try Morris Dancing

Do you have the urge to clash sticks or show off your hanky-waving skills? Look no further; you too can try both with the help of our Guru (wise teacher). The Adelaide Morris Men will hold a Come ‘n Try Morris Dancing workshop, and everybody is invited – especially those with no previous experience. Give this British tradition (as seen at the recent Brit Awards) a try, and we promise a fun and informative experience.

Outdoor Arena: Saturday: 12.30 - 1.30 pm

Cajun Swamp Band (SA)

Come n’try Cajun Dancing

We'll lead you through a few Cajun dances – you might just enjoy it!

Outdoor Arena: Saturday: 2.00 - 3.00 pm

Caz Williams - Poetical Musings   (SA)

Poetry Readings hosted by Caz Williams

The Poetry Sessions are free-flowing sessions where participants are encouraged to share favourite poems- their own work or that of others, talk about things poetical and discuss their joys and struggles in writing. Each session is different, guided by the interests and passions of the participants in that moment. Expertise is not required; just interest, passion, and even just curiosity. All are welcome.

Café Acoustica: Saturday: 10.00- 11.00 am and 3.30 – 4.30 pm

Hedgehog (SA)

Learn a Medieval Dance with Hedgehog

A one-hour workshop where we'll teach people to dance the Saltarello, a lively medieval Italian dance.

Outdoor Arena: Saturday: 11.00 am - 12.00 pm 

Hot For Joe – Border Morris (SA)

Come n’try Border Morris Dancing -with Hot for Joe

No previous experience is required. Join us for a fun hour of dancing to accordion and drum – we may even lend you some bells!!!

Outdoor Arena: Sunday: 12.00 - 1.00 pm 

Lancashire Witches North West Morris Adelaide  (SA)

 Come n’try North-west Morris dancing with Lancashire Witches North-west Morris

Morris dancing has been around since the Middle Ages or before. It is lots of fun and a good way to keep fit and work as a team. No dance experience is required for this workshop. Meet the team, learn a dance, and even perform with us during our last set if you wish.

Outdoor Arena: Sunday: 1.30 - 2.15 pm 

The Royal High Jinx (VIC)

 World Music Dance Workshop 

Learn Traditional Dances from around the world, led by Terry Cole. Accompanied by The Royal High Jinx. Come and join the fun. All ages are welcome!

Show Hall: Saturday: 5.00 - 5.45 pm 

Sally Balfour (NT)

Children's songs with a folk twist with Sally Balfour

For the little kids and the grown-up kids, singing not only the songs from my childhood but original songs relevant to both kids and parents. The set will also feature songs from my uniquely Territorian children's album 'Clara Crocodile'. Songs to get feet stomping and hands clapping. A set to dance your sillies out!

Oval Marquee: Saturday: 12.00 - 12.30 pm and  Sunday: 12.30 - 1.00 pm 

Wendy Morphett's Kiddin' Around  (SA)

Kiddin’ Around is a fun band with a focus on music for children, along with an invitation for the audience to participate in song and movement. Josie, John, Cat and Wendy are the usual players, and other friends and guests are included from time to time to create a blend of instruments and sweet harmonies. From floating like a butterfly to making a variety of animal noises, join Kiddin’ Around for lots of giggles. You can expect a happy half-hour!’

Oval Marquee: Saturday: 11.00 – 11.30 am and Sunday: 11.00 – 11.45 am