Old Songs, Inc. is a not-for-profit, educational, 501(c)3 corporation
Virtual Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 11 am–4 pm.
PO Box 466 • 37 S Main • Voorheesville, NY 12186-0466
(518) 765-2815 • info@oldsongs.org
Past Events
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March 2019
$127
Intermediate Ukulele
with Ron Gordon
If you have taken a “basics” class, or have been self taught in ukulele and would like to review and learn new musical skills, this is the class for you! We will review basic strums and chords through a variety of songs, and than move on to chord melody, and finger picking techniques. Through listening, learning and participation, students will extend their song list and become even more creative on the uke. Handouts provided, and a recording device is
recommended.
For more information contact Ron at 518-372-4172 or rgukeboy@gmail.com.
March 5, 12, 19, 26, April 2, 9, Register by March 1
$127
Clawhammer Banjo
with Paul Draper
Learn and consolidate the essential skills needed for playing old-time music in the clawhammer style. We will work on the following (but not limited to):
- left hand techniques: hammer-ons, pull-offs, slides
- right hand techniques: drop-thumb, “rolls”
- different tunings for different tunes
- other topics based on the class
You will learn these techniques within the context of “Round Peak” banjo tunes. The tunes (some simple, some more involved) will be learned through listening, repeating, and tablature. It is highly recommended that you bring along a recording device! Also recommended (but not required): Brad Leftwich’s book with CD: Round Peak Style Clawhammer Banjo. Please note: It is assumed that the student already has basic “banjo knowledge” and can play a few tunes.
For more information contact Paul at 518-380-1103 or clawhammer888@gmail.com.
March 6, 13, 20, 27, April 3, 10, Register by March 4
$127
Beginner Fiddle
with George Wilson
Little to no violin/fiddle experience or understanding of how to play it. (they need a functional fiddle & bow & some rosin). You will learn how to make a good sound with the bow (from “scratch”), a simple tune or 2, tuning, & basic fiddle care & maintenance.
For more information contact George at 518-461-8394 or geofiddle@gmail.com
March 6, 13, 20, 27, April 3, 10, Register by March 4
$127
Intermediate Fiddle
with George Wilson
Need to have some violin/fiddle experience. You will learn a few tunes & techniques to make them sound “fiddly.” If someone ends up in the wrong class they can transfer. And in any case we’ll have a good time!
For more information contact George at 518-461-8394 or geofiddle@gmail.com
March 6, 13, 20, 27, April 3, 10, Register by March 4
$127
Fingerpicking & Flatpicking Guitar
with Ron Gordon
Learn and apply the fundamental concepts of counterpoint on the steel string guitar. This involves leading, alternate, and runs in the bass; while strumming a rhythm or finger picking an arpeggio, pattern pick, melody line, etc. Knowledge of chords “down the neck”, and how to play a basic rhythm is necessary. For returning students, the songs and tunes we learn will be all new.
For more information contact Ron at 518-372-4172 or rgukeboy@gmail.com.
March 7, 14, 21, 28, April 11, 18, Register by March 5
$25
Joel Mabus
Joel Mabus is a maverick in the folk music world. An award-winning folksinger, he defies any easy pigeonhole. By turns, he picks a mountain banjo to accompany an ancient ballad, sings a witty song about modern life, plays a sweet Irish melody on guitar, swings a hot jazz number, and then reaches deep for a soulful expression of values in a troubled world. He tops it all with a flatpicked fiddle tune or old ukulele song — all skillfully blended into a seamless flow. One fan said, “Its music from the heart that hits you right between the eyes.” A mainstay on the folk circuit these past 40 years, Joel has 27 albums to his credit; the latest is Time & Truth.
Purchase Tickets Online (no added fees):
Or contact Old Songs to reserve: (518) 765-2815 or sales@oldsongs.org
Refunds are not available for this event.
$127
Accordion for Kids
with Peggy Hart
We are looking for young people between the ages of 4–14 who would like to play the accordion. Your child will learn to play this fascinating instrument, while participating in an accordion band. Parents, please call early to reserve your child’s spot.
New Accordions will be available to rent for $25 for the entire class, with a $50 deposit to be refunded at the end of the class.
For more information contact Peggy at 518-439-1060 or peggyminore@yahoo.com.
March 9, 16, 23, 30, April 4, 13, Register by March 7
$25
Matthew Byrne
Born into a family of Newfoundland music makers, Matthew’s repertoire is heavily influenced by that unique musical lineage—the weaving of a great story with a beautiful melody—and he supports this tradition with powerful vocals, polished guitar work, and a presence that fills the room. His repertoire transcends time and place and his live performance reminds us how satisfying traditional songs can be when stripped down to their basic elements.
Purchase Tickets Online (no added fees):
Or contact Old Songs to reserve: (518) 765-2815 or sales@oldsongs.org
Refunds are not available for this event.
African Drum Class
3rd Monday of the Month (Sept.–June)
Study African drumming. Participants will learn authentic drumming from many countries in West Africa. Emphasis will be on traditional rhythms & drumming techniques on djembes, dunduns & other hand drums. Please join us for this fun filled class. All levels are welcomed. Some drums may be available to borrow on a first come, first served basis. Instructor John Dickson.
Email oldsongs@oldsongs.org or call 518-765-2815 for more info.
Class fee: $15
$25
The Tannahill Weavers
The Tannahill Weavers are one of Scotland’s premier traditional bands. Their diverse repertoire spans the centuries with fire-driven instrumentals, topical songs, and original ballads and lullabies. Their music demonstrates to old and young alike the rich and varied musical heritage of the Celtic people. These versatile musicians have received worldwide accolades consistently over the years for their exuberant performances and outstanding recording efforts that seemingly can’t get better… yet continue to do just that.
Purchase Tickets Online (no added fees):
Or contact Old Songs to reserve: (518) 765-2815 or sales@oldsongs.org
Refunds are not available for this event.