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
2nd Wednesday of the Month
Led by the Fearless Fretters.
recommended $3 donation
Steeped in traditional music from both sides of the color line, Scott Ainslie is a renowned acoustic blues guitarist, singer and songwriter. He learned southern old-time ballads, banjo and fiddle from senior musicians in North Carolina and West Virginia and blues from his black elders in North Carolina, Virginia, South Carolina, Georgia and Mississippi: his roots are deep.
Buy Tickets:
The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
2nd Sunday of the Month
A sing-around for the whole family. pickingandsinging.org
2nd Monday of the Month
Led by Tom Behan.
recommended $5 donation
with Susan Trump
The focus is on repertoire building using a variety of styles, including fiddle tunes, songs, Celtic melodies, waltzes, while learning appropriate picking, or finger picking techniques and fingerings.
For more information contact Susan at 518-357-4018 or susantrump@aol.com.
Class Dates: Oct. 24, 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28
3rd Wednesday of the Month (Sept. – May)
This is a friendly, repertoire-building opportunity to play your new tunes slowly and work on your old tunes at a reasonable tempo. We will focus specifically on traditional Irish music, and all Irish-appropriate instruments are welcome (i.e. wooden flute, tin whistle, concertina, button or piano accordion, guitar, bouzouki, mandolin, fiddle, harp). We encourage tape recorders, and focus on learning tunes by ear. Music stands and continuous use of sheet music discouraged. Bring snacks to share. Led by Sean McCorkle.
Recommended $5 donation
James Keelaghan is an artist who has proven to be a man for all seasons. For almost a quarter of a century now, this poet laureate of the folk and roots music world has gone about his work with a combination of passion, intent and intensity, and curiosity. Fusing his insatiable appetite for finding the next unique storyline Keelaghan also forges his pieces with brilliantly defined craftsmanship and a monogrammed artistic vision, making him one of the most distinctive and readily identifiable voices of not only the Canadian scene, but as a member of the international singer-songwriter community.
Buy Tickets:
The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
3rd Monday of the Month
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
with Susan Trump
The focus is on repertoire building using a variety of styles, including fiddle tunes, songs, Celtic melodies, waltzes, while learning appropriate picking, or finger picking techniques and fingerings.
For more information contact Susan at 518-357-4018 or susantrump@aol.com.
Class Dates: Oct. 24, 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28
4th Wednesday of the Month
Playing for dancing with rhythm and style. Build your skills and dance tune repertoire. All instruments & skill levels welcome. Led by Halsey Brown.
recommended $5 donation
Kongero is a Swedish vocal group consisting of the four female folk singers Lotta Andersson, Emma Björling, Sofia Hultqvist Kott and Anna Wikénius.. Kongero tells tales of life, with moving love songs, dramatic medieval ballads, witty ditties, and spirited dances. Their music is characterized by tight harmonies, inciting rhythms and the clarity of their beautiful voices. With confidence, technical skill, irresistible playfulness, and brilliant arrangements, they create a unique sound that brings traditional music from the past and into the present. They call their genre Swedish Folk’appella.
Buy Tickets:
The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
1st Wednesday of the Month
Strut your stuff and share your talent! Walk in and sign up to play (15 minutes). Local performer Kate Blain will host.
$3 cover charge.
With a 20-year background studying polyphonic music from around the world, Windborne (Lauren Breunig, Jeremy Carter-Gordon, Lynn Rowan, and Will Rowan) shifts effortlessly between drastically different styles of music, drawing their audience along on a journey that spans continents and centuries, illuminating and expanding on the profound power and variation of the human voice. Their artistry is rooted in folk music’s longtime alliance with social activism, labor and civil rights, and other movements that champion the oppressed, the poor, and the disenfranchised. However old the songs might be, these folks breathe new life into them.
Buy Tickets:
The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
2nd Sunday of the Month
A sing-around for the whole family. pickingandsinging.org
2nd Monday of the Month
Led by Tom Behan.
recommended $5 donation
2nd Wednesday of the Month
Led by the Fearless Fretters.
recommended $3 donation
3rd Monday of the Month
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
3rd Wednesday of the Month (Sept. – May)
This is a friendly, repertoire-building opportunity to play your new tunes slowly and work on your old tunes at a reasonable tempo. We will focus specifically on traditional Irish music, and all Irish-appropriate instruments are welcome (i.e. wooden flute, tin whistle, concertina, button or piano accordion, guitar, bouzouki, mandolin, fiddle, harp). We encourage tape recorders, and focus on learning tunes by ear. Music stands and continuous use of sheet music discouraged. Bring snacks to share. Led by Sean McCorkle.
Recommended $5 donation
4th Wednesday of the Month
Playing for dancing with rhythm and style. Build your skills and dance tune repertoire. All instruments & skill levels welcome. Led by Halsey Brown.
recommended $5 donation
1st Wednesday of the Month
Strut your stuff and share your talent! Walk in and sign up to play (15 minutes). Local performer Kate Blain will host.
$3 cover charge.
2nd Monday of the Month
Led by Tom Behan.
recommended $5 donation
2nd Wednesday of the Month
Led by the Fearless Fretters.
recommended $3 donation
2nd Sunday of the Month
A sing-around for the whole family. pickingandsinging.org
3rd Monday of the Month
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
3rd Wednesday of the Month (Sept. – May)
This is a friendly, repertoire-building opportunity to play your new tunes slowly and work on your old tunes at a reasonable tempo. We will focus specifically on traditional Irish music, and all Irish-appropriate instruments are welcome (i.e. wooden flute, tin whistle, concertina, button or piano accordion, guitar, bouzouki, mandolin, fiddle, harp). We encourage tape recorders, and focus on learning tunes by ear. Music stands and continuous use of sheet music discouraged. Bring snacks to share. Led by Sean McCorkle.
Recommended $5 donation
4th Wednesday of the Month
Playing for dancing with rhythm and style. Build your skills and dance tune repertoire. All instruments & skill levels welcome. Led by Halsey Brown.
recommended $5 donation
John Kirk & Trish Miller present fiery fiddle tunes, folksongs, and fancy footwork to audiences of all ages. John’s lyric voice, good sense of humor, and versatile instrumental skills — fiddle, mandolin, and several other instruments — have earned him widespread recognition in folk and traditional music circles. Trish is best known for her clogging, guitar, and banjo. Both of them call square dances and have taught folk music and dance programs for over two decades together. johnandtrish.com
Buy Tickets:
The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
1st Wednesday of the Month
Strut your stuff and share your talent! Walk in and sign up to play (15 minutes). Local performer Kate Blain will host.
$3 cover charge.
2nd Sunday of the Month
A sing-around for the whole family. pickingandsinging.org
2nd Monday of the Month
Led by Tom Behan.
recommended $5 donation
2nd Wednesday of the Month
Led by the Fearless Fretters.
recommended $3 donation
3rd Monday of the Month
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
3rd Wednesday of the Month (Sept. – May)
This is a friendly, repertoire-building opportunity to play your new tunes slowly and work on your old tunes at a reasonable tempo. We will focus specifically on traditional Irish music, and all Irish-appropriate instruments are welcome (i.e. wooden flute, tin whistle, concertina, button or piano accordion, guitar, bouzouki, mandolin, fiddle, harp). We encourage tape recorders, and focus on learning tunes by ear. Music stands and continuous use of sheet music discouraged. Bring snacks to share. Led by Sean McCorkle.
Recommended $5 donation
4th Wednesday of the Month
Playing for dancing with rhythm and style. Build your skills and dance tune repertoire. All instruments & skill levels welcome. Led by Halsey Brown.
recommended $5 donation
The traditional-music trio Grosse Isle was born out of the collaboration between three exceptional musicians from Quebec and Ireland: Sophie Lavoie (fiddle, piano, vocal), André Marchand (guitar, vocal), and Fiachra O’Regan (uilleann pipes, whistle, banjo). Fusing Irish and Québécois repertoire with original compositions, the band offers a harmonious blend of the two cultures. Whether they’re performing laments or more rhythmic songs, the authenticity and the immense talent of the artists are equally obvious! grosse-isle.com
Buy Tickets:
The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
with Peggy Hart
Basic Technique, theory and note reading.
If you have any questions regarding your instrument or ability, contact Peggy at 518-439-1060 or peggymhart@yahoo.com.
1st Wednesday of the Month
Strut your stuff and share your talent! Walk in and sign up to play (15 minutes). Local performer Kate Blain will host.
$3 cover charge.
with Ray Andrews
This class is for those with little or no banjo experience. In addition to setting up and tuning your banjo, you will learn essential strumming and other right hand techniques, as well as necessary left hand techniques such as “hammer-ons,” “pull-offs,” and “slides.” You will learn to read tablature. You will use these techniques in the banjo tunes you learn. It will be helpful to have a recording device!
For more information email Ray.
with Ray Andrews
This class is for those who already have some clawhammer banjo experience, and can already play some tunes. The tunes you’ll be learning will use the essential left hand techniques of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Also you will use right hand techniques such as the drop-thumb and the “galax lick.” You will learn different tunings for different tunes. Tunes will be learned through listening, repeating, and tablature. A recording device will be helpful!
For more information email Ray.
Fun, simple dances from the U.S. and around the world. For every age and ability. All dances will be taught and will include circles, contras and squares. Yummy dessert potluck during intermission.
Buy Tickets:
The dance will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville).
2nd Sunday of the Month
A sing-around for the whole family. pickingandsinging.org
2nd Monday of the Month
Led by Tom Behan.
recommended $5 donation
with Peggy Hart
Basic Technique, theory and note reading.
If you have any questions regarding your instrument or ability, contact Peggy at 518-439-1060 or peggymhart@yahoo.com.
with Karen Wilson
We will learn the picking and fingering exercises that enable the ability to play the mandolin. We’ll cover a combination of traditional American and Celtic fiddle tunes as well as beginning classical pieces to facilitate your musical expression. There will be a combination of reading music on the mandolin, as well as ear training. Get yourself started on an instrument that fits into so many styles of music. Handouts and music are provided, and a recording device is recommended.
For more information contact Karen.
with Ron Gordon
This class will include fun tunes and songs that highlight specific techniques in fingerpicking, chording, strumming, and flat-picking. All new material will be taught so that both previous and new students will have opportunities to learn and make some great new music. You’ll get the tab, and sound/video so that you can have some guitar classics to master over time.
For more information contact Ron at 518-372-4172 or rgukeboy@gmail.com.
2nd Wednesday of the Month
Led by the Fearless Fretters.
recommended $3 donation
with Kathleen Hanley
This class will teach basic ukulele strums and chords. Students will learn new songs to practice the one finger strum, the thumb drag, and the damping strum. The triplet strum and fingerpicking patterns will be introduced to advanced beginners. Both new and returning students are welcome.
For more information contact Kathleen at kathleen.m.hanley@gmail.com.
with Kathleen Hanley
This class will employ more complex chord progressions, and some new songs will feature more fingerpicking techniques. Familiarity with basic chords and strums is recommended. Both new and returning students are welcome.
For more information contact Kathleen at kathleen.m.hanley@gmail.com.
with Ray Andrews
This class is for those who already have some clawhammer banjo experience, and can already play some tunes. The tunes you’ll be learning will use the essential left hand techniques of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Also you will use right hand techniques such as the drop-thumb and the “galax lick.” You will learn different tunings for different tunes. Tunes will be learned through listening, repeating, and tablature. A recording device will be helpful!
For more information email Ray.
In the year 2013, weathering the initial hitches and hiccups and bothers and blips of starting a band, The Jeremiahs formed to become a welcome gopher in the garden of Celtic music. They shape their sound with Dubliner Joe Gibney’s beautiful vocals and some whistle (not at the same time); Conor Crimmins who plays whistle and flutes; Dublin based James Ryan who holds down the rhythm section on guitar and bouzouki and a few choice effects pedals; and finally Matt Mancuso on fiddle. thejeremiahs.ie
Buy Tickets:
The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
3rd Monday of the Month
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
with Peggy Hart
Basic Technique, theory and note reading.
If you have any questions regarding your instrument or ability, contact Peggy at 518-439-1060 or peggymhart@yahoo.com.
with Karen Wilson
We will learn the picking and fingering exercises that enable the ability to play the mandolin. We’ll cover a combination of traditional American and Celtic fiddle tunes as well as beginning classical pieces to facilitate your musical expression. There will be a combination of reading music on the mandolin, as well as ear training. Get yourself started on an instrument that fits into so many styles of music. Handouts and music are provided, and a recording device is recommended.
For more information contact Karen.
with Ron Gordon
This class will include fun tunes and songs that highlight specific techniques in fingerpicking, chording, strumming, and flat-picking. All new material will be taught so that both previous and new students will have opportunities to learn and make some great new music. You’ll get the tab, and sound/video so that you can have some guitar classics to master over time.
For more information contact Ron at 518-372-4172 or rgukeboy@gmail.com.
3rd Wednesday of the Month (Sept. – May)
This is a friendly, repertoire-building opportunity to play your new tunes slowly and work on your old tunes at a reasonable tempo. We will focus specifically on traditional Irish music, and all Irish-appropriate instruments are welcome (i.e. wooden flute, tin whistle, concertina, button or piano accordion, guitar, bouzouki, mandolin, fiddle, harp). We encourage tape recorders, and focus on learning tunes by ear. Music stands and continuous use of sheet music discouraged. Bring snacks to share. Led by Sean McCorkle.
Recommended $5 donation
with Kathleen Hanley
This class will teach basic ukulele strums and chords. Students will learn new songs to practice the one finger strum, the thumb drag, and the damping strum. The triplet strum and fingerpicking patterns will be introduced to advanced beginners. Both new and returning students are welcome.
For more information contact Kathleen at kathleen.m.hanley@gmail.com.
with Kathleen Hanley
This class will employ more complex chord progressions, and some new songs will feature more fingerpicking techniques. Familiarity with basic chords and strums is recommended. Both new and returning students are welcome.
For more information contact Kathleen at kathleen.m.hanley@gmail.com.
with Ray Andrews
This class is for those who already have some clawhammer banjo experience, and can already play some tunes. The tunes you’ll be learning will use the essential left hand techniques of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Also you will use right hand techniques such as the drop-thumb and the “galax lick.” You will learn different tunings for different tunes. Tunes will be learned through listening, repeating, and tablature. A recording device will be helpful!
For more information email Ray.
É.T.É are Élisabeth (fiddle, step-dancing, vocals), Thierry (bouzouki, podorythmie, vocals), and Élisabeth (cello, vocals). The word été in French means summer–a fitting tribute to how their original, lively take on Québec traditional music is infused with a new vitality. With lovely vocal harmonies, deep groove, and rich instrumentation, É.T.É are an explosive trio on stage, transforming the nostalgia of a kitchen party into an unforgettable show experience that celebrates the joie de vivre of Québecois culture. etemusiquetrad.ca
Buy Tickets:
The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
with Peggy Hart
Basic Technique, theory and note reading.
If you have any questions regarding your instrument or ability, contact Peggy at 518-439-1060 or peggymhart@yahoo.com.
with Karen Wilson
We will learn the picking and fingering exercises that enable the ability to play the mandolin. We’ll cover a combination of traditional American and Celtic fiddle tunes as well as beginning classical pieces to facilitate your musical expression. There will be a combination of reading music on the mandolin, as well as ear training. Get yourself started on an instrument that fits into so many styles of music. Handouts and music are provided, and a recording device is recommended.
For more information contact Karen.
with Ron Gordon
This class will include fun tunes and songs that highlight specific techniques in fingerpicking, chording, strumming, and flat-picking. All new material will be taught so that both previous and new students will have opportunities to learn and make some great new music. You’ll get the tab, and sound/video so that you can have some guitar classics to master over time.
For more information contact Ron at 518-372-4172 or rgukeboy@gmail.com.
4th Wednesday of the Month
Playing for dancing with rhythm and style. Build your skills and dance tune repertoire. All instruments & skill levels welcome. Led by Halsey Brown.
recommended $5 donation
with Kathleen Hanley
This class will teach basic ukulele strums and chords. Students will learn new songs to practice the one finger strum, the thumb drag, and the damping strum. The triplet strum and fingerpicking patterns will be introduced to advanced beginners. Both new and returning students are welcome.
For more information contact Kathleen at kathleen.m.hanley@gmail.com.
with Kathleen Hanley
This class will employ more complex chord progressions, and some new songs will feature more fingerpicking techniques. Familiarity with basic chords and strums is recommended. Both new and returning students are welcome.
For more information contact Kathleen at kathleen.m.hanley@gmail.com.
with Ray Andrews
This class is for those who already have some clawhammer banjo experience, and can already play some tunes. The tunes you’ll be learning will use the essential left hand techniques of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Also you will use right hand techniques such as the drop-thumb and the “galax lick.” You will learn different tunings for different tunes. Tunes will be learned through listening, repeating, and tablature. A recording device will be helpful!
For more information email Ray.
with Karen Wilson
We will learn the picking and fingering exercises that enable the ability to play the mandolin. We’ll cover a combination of traditional American and Celtic fiddle tunes as well as beginning classical pieces to facilitate your musical expression. There will be a combination of reading music on the mandolin, as well as ear training. Get yourself started on an instrument that fits into so many styles of music. Handouts and music are provided, and a recording device is recommended.
For more information contact Karen.
with Ron Gordon
This class will include fun tunes and songs that highlight specific techniques in fingerpicking, chording, strumming, and flat-picking. All new material will be taught so that both previous and new students will have opportunities to learn and make some great new music. You’ll get the tab, and sound/video so that you can have some guitar classics to master over time.
For more information contact Ron at 518-372-4172 or rgukeboy@gmail.com.
1st Wednesday of the Month
Strut your stuff and share your talent! Walk in and sign up to play (15 minutes). Local performer Kate Blain will host.
$3 cover charge.
with Kathleen Hanley
This class will teach basic ukulele strums and chords. Students will learn new songs to practice the one finger strum, the thumb drag, and the damping strum. The triplet strum and fingerpicking patterns will be introduced to advanced beginners. Both new and returning students are welcome.
For more information contact Kathleen at kathleen.m.hanley@gmail.com.
with Kathleen Hanley
This class will employ more complex chord progressions, and some new songs will feature more fingerpicking techniques. Familiarity with basic chords and strums is recommended. Both new and returning students are welcome.
For more information contact Kathleen at kathleen.m.hanley@gmail.com.
with Ray Andrews
This class is for those who already have some clawhammer banjo experience, and can already play some tunes. The tunes you’ll be learning will use the essential left hand techniques of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Also you will use right hand techniques such as the drop-thumb and the “galax lick.” You will learn different tunings for different tunes. Tunes will be learned through listening, repeating, and tablature. A recording device will be helpful!
For more information email Ray.
with Ethan Setiawan and Conor & Brendan Hearn
Join Orkney fiddler and photographer Louise Bichan as she embarks on a unique musical and sentimental journey, between her native northern Scottish isles and coast-to-coast Canada, in the footsteps of her late paternal grandmother Margaret, née Tait (1925-2008). Now carving her own path in New England’s vibrant music scene, Bichan takes to the road with brothers Conor Hearn playing guitar and Brendan Hearn on cello, along with Ethan Setiawan on mandolins, to present an evening of lively fiddle tunes from Scotland and beyond, weaving through stories of connection, to people, nature, the past and the possibility of the future.
Buy Tickets:
The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
2nd Monday of the Month
Led by Tom Behan.
recommended $5 donation
with Peggy Hart
Basic Technique, theory and note reading.
If you have any questions regarding your instrument or ability, contact Peggy at 518-439-1060 or peggymhart@yahoo.com.
with Karen Wilson
We will learn the picking and fingering exercises that enable the ability to play the mandolin. We’ll cover a combination of traditional American and Celtic fiddle tunes as well as beginning classical pieces to facilitate your musical expression. There will be a combination of reading music on the mandolin, as well as ear training. Get yourself started on an instrument that fits into so many styles of music. Handouts and music are provided, and a recording device is recommended.
For more information contact Karen.
with Ron Gordon
This class will include fun tunes and songs that highlight specific techniques in fingerpicking, chording, strumming, and flat-picking. All new material will be taught so that both previous and new students will have opportunities to learn and make some great new music. You’ll get the tab, and sound/video so that you can have some guitar classics to master over time.
For more information contact Ron at 518-372-4172 or rgukeboy@gmail.com.
2nd Wednesday of the Month
Led by the Fearless Fretters.
recommended $3 donation
with Kathleen Hanley
This class will teach basic ukulele strums and chords. Students will learn new songs to practice the one finger strum, the thumb drag, and the damping strum. The triplet strum and fingerpicking patterns will be introduced to advanced beginners. Both new and returning students are welcome.
For more information contact Kathleen at kathleen.m.hanley@gmail.com.
with Kathleen Hanley
This class will employ more complex chord progressions, and some new songs will feature more fingerpicking techniques. Familiarity with basic chords and strums is recommended. Both new and returning students are welcome.
For more information contact Kathleen at kathleen.m.hanley@gmail.com.
with Ray Andrews
This class is for those who already have some clawhammer banjo experience, and can already play some tunes. The tunes you’ll be learning will use the essential left hand techniques of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Also you will use right hand techniques such as the drop-thumb and the “galax lick.” You will learn different tunings for different tunes. Tunes will be learned through listening, repeating, and tablature. A recording device will be helpful!
For more information email Ray.
2nd Sunday of the Month
A sing-around for the whole family. pickingandsinging.org
3rd Monday of the Month
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
3rd Wednesday of the Month (Sept. – May)
This is a friendly, repertoire-building opportunity to play your new tunes slowly and work on your old tunes at a reasonable tempo. We will focus specifically on traditional Irish music, and all Irish-appropriate instruments are welcome (i.e. wooden flute, tin whistle, concertina, button or piano accordion, guitar, bouzouki, mandolin, fiddle, harp). We encourage tape recorders, and focus on learning tunes by ear. Music stands and continuous use of sheet music discouraged. Bring snacks to share. Led by Sean McCorkle.
Recommended $5 donation
with Nina Zanetti
The focus is on repertoire building using a variety of styles, including traditional tunes, Celtic melodies, and duets, while learning appropriate flat-picking or finger-picking techniques, effective left-hand fingering, and good musicianship, as it relates to mountain dulcimer.
For more information contact Nina at 518-456-8715 or ninazanetti@verizon.net.
Nic Gareiss (percussive dance, bouzouki, vocals) and Simon Chrisman (hammer dulcimer) met in 2007 at a fiddle festival in the Californian redwoods and have been exploring sound and movement together ever since. Both innovators on their instruments, Nic and Simon bring their unique approaches together for traditional song, percussive dance, instrumental tunes, improvisation and new compositions, engaging interlocking rhythms and dynamic textures.
Well-known for his work with the groundbreaking new acoustic string band The Bee Eaters, Simon’s music combines “chamber music’s finely calibrated arrangements with bluegrass’s playful virtuosity and pop music’s melodic resourcefulness.” (Boston Herald) Noted for his “dexterous melding of Irish and Appalachian dance” (New York Times) and described as “the most inventive and expressive step dancer on the scene” (Boston Herald). Together, Nic and Simon adventure into the world of time and timbre to create a breathtaking evening-length performance of song, instrumental music, and percussive dance.
facebook page | nicgareiss.com
Buy Tickets:
The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
4th Wednesday of the Month
Playing for dancing with rhythm and style. Build your skills and dance tune repertoire. All instruments & skill levels welcome. Led by Halsey Brown.
recommended $5 donation
with Nina Zanetti
The focus is on repertoire building using a variety of styles, including traditional tunes, Celtic melodies, and duets, while learning appropriate flat-picking or finger-picking techniques, effective left-hand fingering, and good musicianship, as it relates to mountain dulcimer.
For more information contact Nina at 518-456-8715 or ninazanetti@verizon.net.
For over twenty years, Genticorum has earned a place of privilege on world, traditional, folk and Celtic music stages. Pascal Gemme (fiddle) and Yann Falquet (guitar), the group’s two founding members, are both recognized individually as major contributors to the trad music scene in Québec. Since 2015, they have been joined by accomplished multi-instrumentalist and composer Nicholas Williams (flute, accordion). Weaving intricate fiddle, flute and accordion lines, gorgeous vocal harmonies, subtle guitar textures and exhilarating foot percussion, the pleasure that these three musicians have creating and playing together is palpable, both in the studio and on the concert stage. genticorum.com
Buy Tickets:
The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
1st Wednesday of the Month
Strut your stuff and share your talent! Walk in and sign up to play (15 minutes). Local performer Kate Blain will host.
$3 cover charge.
with Nina Zanetti
The focus is on repertoire building using a variety of styles, including traditional tunes, Celtic melodies, and duets, while learning appropriate flat-picking or finger-picking techniques, effective left-hand fingering, and good musicianship, as it relates to mountain dulcimer.
For more information contact Nina at 518-456-8715 or ninazanetti@verizon.net.
Presenting John Roberts on his 80th birthday! Celebrate with us!
John has been singing English folk songs since the early 1960s, when he joined a local folk club in his native Worcestershire. In America since 1968, he joined with Tony Barrand to form a long lasting duo whose entertaining style delighted audiences. These days, he mostly performs solo, with long-time partner Lisa Preston, or in tandem with Debra Cowan. He presents a selection of songs (music of the sea is one of his specialties), some well-known to folk aficionados and others less so. John accompanies himself masterfully on concertina, banjo, and guitar. johnrobertsfolksong.com
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The concert will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville) and live-streamed on the Old Songs YouTube Channel.
with Nina Zanetti
The focus is on repertoire building using a variety of styles, including traditional tunes, Celtic melodies, and duets, while learning appropriate flat-picking or finger-picking techniques, effective left-hand fingering, and good musicianship, as it relates to mountain dulcimer.
For more information contact Nina at 518-456-8715 or ninazanetti@verizon.net.
All-day Ukulele Intensive. Open to ALL LEVELS of player — beginner to advanced! See the full schedule of workshops…
Register
The workshop will be held in person at the Old Songs building (37 S Main in Voorheesville). If you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID, the flu, or a cold (cough, runny nose, sore throat, or fever) at the time of the event, please stay home, and ask for a refund.
Beginning Uke with Ron Whitford — The beginners’ workshop will focus on basic chord progressions (one – four – five chords) and how a circle of fifths works. The session will show how to make efficient chord transitions by moving or lifting the least fingers possible. We’ll be playing songs in a few keys to demonstrate these skills. A basic strum will be taught to keep the rhythm in a song.
5 Essential Strums and a Frail with Ron Gordon — This workshop will present songs to study five useful strums: the one-finger strum, the thumb drag, triplet, damp, and syncopated. There will also be a quick study of a banjo strum, frailing on the uke. Learn how to add variety to your right-hand rhythm playing! Workshop Materials
Jim’s Jazzin’ Up the Uke with Jim Beloff — How to use chord substitutions to “jazz up” a simple 4 or 5 chord song. Based on the 2015 Flea Market Music book. We’ll also play through several Lyle Ritz classic jazz arrangements. Jim’s style is decidedly jazzy, so here’s a great opportunity to understand the thinking behind this style of music on the uke. Workshop Materials
Ukulele Fingerpicking or the Educated Thumb with Ron Gordon — Fingerpicking on the ukulele is a beautiful technique to accompany songs and play solo repertoire. In this workshop, you will learn some of the patterns that bring out the melodic side of the uke: “parlor style”, arpeggio, and alternate thumb. We’ll cover some songs and an instrumental in this session. Workshop Materials
The New Daily Ukulele with Jim Beloff — A new Workshop/Jam that Jim will offer is selected songs from the new “Daily Ukulele: Another Year” songbook which is due to come out in soon. This would be the first time Jim would be offering this. You’ll get an early intro of all new songs, on all levels, in this workshop. Kind of like a world premiere! It’s quite a story of how Jim decided to create an all-new book modeled on the original. We’ll have to find a red carpet! Workshop Materials
Jugband/Blues Workshop with Ron Whitford — Ron will present a sample of jug band songs by original jug band groups giving some biographical information about some of the early Jug Band/Blues artists: Gus Cannon’s song, “Going to Germany”, Memphis Minnie’s, “What’s the Matter with the Mill?”, “Call the Fire Wagon”, the Mississippi Sheiks’,” Bootlegger’s Blues” and Frank Stokes, “Chicken Roost Behind the Moon.” Ukes, jugs, kazoos, and washtub basses are welcome.
with Nina Zanetti
The focus is on repertoire building using a variety of styles, including traditional tunes, Celtic melodies, and duets, while learning appropriate flat-picking or finger-picking techniques, effective left-hand fingering, and good musicianship, as it relates to mountain dulcimer.
For more information contact Nina at 518-456-8715 or ninazanetti@verizon.net.
4th Wednesday of the Month
Playing for dancing with rhythm and style. Build your skills and dance tune repertoire. All instruments & skill levels welcome. Led by Halsey Brown.
recommended $5 donation
with Nina Zanetti
The focus is on repertoire building using a variety of styles, including traditional tunes, Celtic melodies, and duets, while learning appropriate flat-picking or finger-picking techniques, effective left-hand fingering, and good musicianship, as it relates to mountain dulcimer.
For more information contact Nina at 518-456-8715 or ninazanetti@verizon.net.
1st Wednesday of the Month
Strut your stuff and share your talent! Walk in and sign up to play (15 minutes). Local performer Kate Blain will host.
$3 cover charge.
1st Wednesday of the Month
Strut your stuff and share your talent! Walk in and sign up to play (15 minutes). Local performer Kate Blain will host.
$3 cover charge.
1st Wednesday of the Month
Strut your stuff and share your talent! Walk in and sign up to play (15 minutes). Local performer Kate Blain will host.
$3 cover charge.
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