|
Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link.
Apltrez - Posted - 01/17/2010: 16:19:27
The Palestine Old Time & Dulcimer Festival in March seems like a great homegrown Festival. Does anybody have any input or past experience with regard to the fiddle side of things?
Thinking I might make the trek from NM.
Fiddler - Posted - 01/17/2010: 18:45:56
I went last year for the first time. (I had conflicts previous years and couldn't make it.) My hat's off to the Wrights and the troop of volunteers who organize this event! Not only do they bring in first-class musicians, they have created an event with accessibility to the "headliners" in both concert and workshops and where jamming is highly encouraged.
I had a great time! However, I did not go to any of the workshops or concerts, choosing to spend time jamming and visiting - reconnecting with folks I haven't seen in over 20 years! The fiddling and music was extremely satisfying for me. I heard good reviews and comments about the workshops.
The event is held in the old Palestine high school. Stairs are everywhere. People jam where ever they can crowd together. Bring hearing protection! Those small rooms with plaster wall can really amplify the sound. One criticism I would have is the lack of isolated rooms to jam in, but a healthy group jam can be fun! Folks do go outside. (The weather was cool and windy last year. Not the best for being outdoors.)
So, the bottom line is my review of Old Pal is extremely biased because it was more about friends than the music. I plan tp make an effort to attend again this year.
ccravens - Posted - 01/18/2010: 10:43:18
I've been to the festival last 5 years. Jerry & Margaret are great. Fiddler mentioned the jamming and stage music, both of which are awesome. But I also go for the lessons included in the price. You can get lessons on almost any instrument on Friday and Saturday, lessons held about 3 times a day. Classes are usually small. If you can't find a lesson in what you're interested in at a certain time slot, Jerry or Margaret will find someone for you for a private lesson! They've done this for me before.
Unfortunately, that means I have to take my guitar, fiddle and mando!  Since you're probably a fiddle buff, Rafe Steffani (sp?) is one of the fiddler instructors, as well as others.
You never know what you'll find. Last year, they had a percussionist instructor in old-time percussion instruments! My fave memory is from a few years back when I listened to a few folks play a bunch of Hawaiian Tiki songs late one night. Don't think you'll be sorry you came. Feel free to ask me any more questions, or I can give you Jerry & Margaret's phone # & you can ask yourself. 
Edited by - ccravens on 01/18/2010 10:43:54
|
|
|
|
Feeds
