Classes

Calypso – born in Trinidad and Tobago – is a highly rhythmic and jaunty genre rooted in the west african griot tradition. Calypsonians composed songs with biting insults, socio political messages, black magic, double entendres, and so much more. In this 1-session class, together we will listen to some of the greats and learn the…

Experience the unifying force and community of singing and moving together. This 2-session class focuses on movement, call and response vocals, improvisation and expression. Participants will explore ways to listen, inspire and connect with each other. Bring a gospel song you want to share (or a song with a gospel influence) and your instrument. We…

For this class, I’ll be teaching you a small handful of simple chords and strumming patterns that you can use to play literally hundreds of songs. We’ll start slow with some gentle, easy songs that you are likely already familiar with to give your fingers time to find the chords.  On day two we’ll add…

In this one-session introduction to one of Mississippi’s most unique regional traditions, we will explore the legendary “crossnote” tuning, signature phrases and traditional repertoire. Open to all levels.

This 2-session class is for players who are looking for a couple of ear-opening challenges. First, we will arrange the classic “Summertime” as it’s rarely played…using George Gershwin’s original way-wicked chords! Then we will discover the skeleton key that unlocks those mysterious “modes” and you’ll be amazed at how simple they actually are to understand…

Whether you play fingerstyle or use a pick, this two-session class will get your left hand moving, with a focus on melody.  We’ll also learn some bass runs and lines, bar chords and blues shuffles.

A pioneer of Hill Country blues, Mississippi Fred Mcdowell is known for his hypnotic and percussive style of slide guitar. In this 2-session class, we will learn a couple of Mcdowell songs in both Spanish and Vestapol tuning. We’ll take our time breaking down the techniques that make these songs great.

Let’s get back to the roots of popular music in this two-session class, with foundational techniques like strumming, basic fingerpicking, single notes and a little bit of singing. Expect to play some blues, Beatles, Dylan and more.  This class is structured for advanced beginners, but all levels are welcome.

This 2-session class is for advanced beginners who have the basic open chords under their belt, If you are ready to move to the next level, and you know the E, A, D, G and C chords and can shift from one to another in rhythm, join us as we uncover the magic that a…

This 2-session class is intended to re-introduce basic techniques, styles and approaches to the use of the harmonica in blues and folk music. Topics covered include: breathing, playing in both 1st and 2nd positions, bends, trills, tremolo, rhythmic comping and other effects. Students are required to bring at least one harmonica in the key of…

Take a leap from basic harmonica and start moving toward difficult techniques in this 2-session class. Cross harping, and more advanced work in different effects. Bring what you know, share with others and learn new ways to play!

This one-session class will be about looking at and sharing different approaches to the harmonica, and playing it with another instrument (solo or along with others). Bring techniques you have already mastered to share, and learn new ones from me and the group! Feel free to bring a guitar/ harmonica rack if you want to…

For this 2-session class, I’ll give you prompts to get your creative juices flowing, and throw in some interesting form patterns and rhyme schemes for you to work with. On day two, everyone will have a chance to play what they’ve written so far, and I’ll offer guidance on how to tighten up your song…

This 1-session class will start off with a guided meditation to bring you back to a place that you love – some time and place that’s very special in your life. You’ll start to recall long-ago forgotten details and these details will be the spice in your song. You’ll consider how these memories “feel” and…

We use the chapel concert stage and sound system to practice our songs, while going over best practices for sound checks, mic technique, instrument amplification and performance tips. Learn a bit more about audio connections, avoiding rings and “bad sound,” how the gear works, and bringing your best game when getting on stage.

In this 2-session class we will explore different ways to hit, pluck and of course strum the banjo while accompanying ourselves and other musicians. We’ll start with simple techniques and chords to get up and running in no time. Come discover how versatile and friendly the banjo can be!

I have found that the best way to learn your way around the ukulele is to jam with others on easy songs. It’s great for learning new chords, expanding your repertoire and discovering new sounds on the world’s most fun instrument. Join us to experience the joy of uking!

Let your unique voice be heard. As much as I love singing the blues, I’m excited to share my passion with you in this 2-session class. Maybe you are curious, or new to blues singing? Or you’re already well-versed in blues but looking to enhance your performance? Bring a song that you want to share…

Be ready to let go and share your spirit. In this 1-session class, participants will learn how to energize their voice, enhance expression and explore ways to tell a story.