This class will help the aspiring banjo player learn the basics of playing their instrument in an old style! Clawhammer banjo is a method of playing that's usually associated with traditional American music, although the style can be well applied to contemporary genres, too. Topic to be discussed in class include the history of banjos, fundamentals of strumming, frailing, and drop-thumbing, music theory for the banjo, alternative tunings, and a few reels, waltzes, and more.
Students will leave with exercises to help them improve muscle memory and dexterity, with tablature for playing many traditional banjo tunes, and a fresh perspective and appreciation of the countless ways to play the banjo.
This class is appropriate for beginning banjo players. Students must bring their own banjo and accessories (see instructions below).
Instructions: Students must bring their own banjo, capo, tuner/pitch pipe, and are encouraged to bring a folder or binder for keeping their sheet music.
Date: Saturday, September 28
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Ages: 8+
Level: Beginner
Materials Fees: $5
Location: Thoreau College Campus, Viroqua, WI
Sliding Scale Course Fee Guidelines (not including Materials Fees)
Supporter Level Ticket: $65
If you move through the world with financial ease and the means to fulfill many of your wants as well as your needs – you are able to eat out when you want, abundantly meet your needs through employment or can comfortably not work, have access to family wealth, own property, etc. – consider paying at this level, which will help us ensure the long term sustainability of our programs while keeping our offerings accessible to those with access to fewer resources.
Sustainer Level Ticket: $50
If you are able to meet your needs with relative ease while budgeting your educational and entertainment spending – for instance, you are able to take classes and eat out occasionally as long as you are mindful – consider paying at this level, which will help sustain the work of the Folk School at a modest level.
Supported Level Ticket: $35
If you struggle to fund your basic needs and have limited access to resources in your family and community, or if you would not be able to access this offering without a discounted payment option, consider paying at this level. We value your presence and contributions to our community and do not want any economic circumstances to be a barrier to attendance!
Instructor Bio — Brennan Henry Allsworth
Brennan Henry is an avid musician, farmer, and food advocate living in Decorah, Iowa - the Driftless South. They have been studying, composing, and performing music in myriad ways (contra dances, music festivals, international artist residencies) for almost two decades. When not plucking the banjo, Brennan is often enjoying a delicious meal with his wife Mo, fermenting something, spending time with family and friends or watching the birds.