Bing's Workshops!

Here are the workshops that Bing is teaching during the retreat!

Manatee Orchestra - Mountain Dulcimers

In this workshop, we’ll go over the material and prepare for the Manatee Orchestra, which will open the Saturday evening concert.  All skill levels are welcome to participate and we have a blast learning three songs and then rehearsing them for the show.  Mountain dulcimer players are encouraged to join Guy and Sharrie’s Manatee Orchestra workshops for hammered dulcimer, penny whistle and ukulele for extra practice.  There will be a full orchestra rehearsal on Saturday at 3 pm.  Come join us! (All Skill Levels)

The Classical Mountain Dulcimer - Mountain Dulcimers

We’ll take some of the music from great composers like Beethoven, Mozart, Pachelbel, Haydn and an original piece by Bing, we’ll assign parts to different sections and then, together, we’ll make a joyful noise in triumphant harmony!  (Intermediate)

The Easy Rhythm Method - Mountain Dulcimers

Ever wonder what kind of strum to use on a tune?  Do you feel like bum-diddy just ain’t cuttin’ it anymore?  This is the workshop for you!  Bing will teach a simple and effective method for deciding on, and utilizing, a strum or picking pattern for any song.  There will be songs to demonstrate the method in different time signatures, an exploring of accents to create a groove and exercises to build dexterity and muscle memory.  (Intermediate)

Learning To Play Native American Flute

You'll be surprised at just how easy it is to play!  In this workshop, you'll learn basics: flute anatomy, how to hold it, breath control, major and minor scales, ornamentation techniques and how to discover your very own spirit song.  If you don't have a flute, I will have a limited supply of loaners that are also available for purchase.  Key does not matter if you wish to bring your own. (Beginner to Intermediate)

Mississippi Delta Blues - Mountain Dulcimers

The roots of the blues as we know it can be traced down to southern Mississippi and up through Memphis, Tennessee.  In this workshop, we’ll hear some blues history, learn how to play the 12-bar blues form, add “blue” notes and expression plus make up our own lyrics!  A follow-up to this workshop, Big City Blues, will be taught on The Castaway Music Cruise

Sunday Morning Coming Down - All Instruments

This has become a tradition for a number of years at the retreat and is a great way to wind down after three full days of fun!  Here’s your chance to reflect on new things that you’ve learned, ask questions, get clarification and share lightbulb moments with the group.  It’s always an easy-going good way to start the final day!