9:00 - Arrival
9:15-10:15 - Class #1 - Repertoire
10:15-10:30 - Snack Break
10:30-11:30 - Class #2 - Repertoire or Bands
11:35-12:15 - Class #3 - Creative time (Improvisation, Tune Writing, Arranging, Bands)
12:15-12:45 - Lunch
12:45-2:00 - Outdoor adventure
2:00-3:00 - Class #4 - Review
At Trailside Fiddle Camp, emphasis is on learning fiddle music in a positive environment that encourages musical exploration and collaboration. Campers will learn repertoire from the Scottish, Cape Breton, and Irish traditions, along with the techniques used to get a stylistic sound. All tunes will be taught by ear in the traditional way, but campers will be able to take recordings and videos, and sheet music will be provided at the end of camp.
Campers will also learn how to be creative within the Celtic music styles. We will learn how to arrange fiddle tunes in ways that make for an interesting performance and break into small bands to do some self-directed arranging. We will discover the structure of fiddle tunes and might try our hand at writing at our own. We'll learn how to improvise on a tune melody and other ways to add individual expression to the music.
Most importantly, we will work together to create fun and beautiful music!
The short answer is YES! The structure and unique programming of TFC means that you can choose your challenge, whether you are new to the fiddle style or have been attending camps or jams for many years.
Many classes will be leveled, so you can choose the speed you want to go! Additionally, with band practice and creative workshops daily, you can make your music as complex as you want.
Emilie and Elizabeth are both experienced teachers who know how to meet the needs of all students. At TFC, you'll learn something new and have fun doing it!
An informal camper concert will be held on Friday, July 31 at 2:00 PM (or Saturday, August 1 in the event of a weather cancellation).
All are invited, and the concert will also be open to members of the public. It will be held at the McKenna Pavilion on the Nobscot Scout Reservation property.
Nobscot Scout Reservation is beautiful, spacious, and rustic! It is a property of the Boy Scouts USA and exists to provide outdoor experiences to Scout and non-Scout groups alike.
The McKenna pavilion is a well-maintained open-air structure with an enclosed storage area. We'll enjoy the breeze on a July day! It is about a 5-10 minute walk on wide easy trails from the parking lot to the McKenna pavilion, and camp staff will be available to guide campers to the venue.
Because the whole Nobscot property is open to the public, we will also have use of the surrounding conservation area for classes and adventures.
Campers will have access to composting toilets and a hand-pump well for handwashing. The water is potable and regularly tested, but we will also have plenty of clean drinking water available for campers.
With so many trails at our disposal, we will have lots of things to learn and do outdoors! Expect trail walks, wayfinding challenges like orienteering and letterboxing, and team sports/games.
Instrument
Phone
Recording device (a voice memo app on your phone will work great!)
Close-toed shoes
Water
Snack(s)
Lunch
Small backpack or daypack
Sun hat and sunscreen
Bug spray
Layers to dress for the weather (including sun protection)