4 Saturdays, October 3 - 24, 12:30 - 2:30 pm Introduction to Old-Time Banjo in the Clawhammer Style Taught by Mike Wilson, 18+ Playing banjo is FUN! Come, let's make music and have some FUN! CLASS OBJECTIVES: This class will be a first step on a journey to a lifetime of making music, in the old-time clawhammer style of banjo. Specifically we will: -Learn about the different styles of banjos and banjo playing. With some history included, we’ll also learn how old-time clawhammer style compares to the very popular bluegrass style. -We will learn, and emphasize, the basic rhythm that most clawhammer uses. Rhythm is essential to all music, and clawhammer banjo is no exception. -We will learn at least one of the most common tunings used in Old-Time music, and the chords that fit that tuning. This will enable us to meet our very important goal of making music! -We will learn a simple Old-Time tune. More if the class responds well. Of course, we will be applying the rhythm and chords learned in class. -We will learn some simple embellishments for the fretting hand to make our tune a bit more interesting. -We will also experiment with applying this style to some of our favorite songs. Clawhammer is mostly associated with Old-Time music (yes, that IS a genre), but you may have a favorite song or three that you like to sing at the bonfire… There’s no reason it won’t work for a lot of songs. -References will be given to further the students’ studies. Students will provide their own 5-string banjo with frets. The ability to record (cell phone recording works) is a bonus. The Newark Arts Alliance will retain a $5 cancellation fee if a student withdraws from a class. Mike Wilsonis a Clawhammer banjo player. He plays Old-Time music, performing with the band Kindred Grove, playing gigs and open mics. He plays regionally with friends in Old-Time jams. He has taken workshops from some of the leading Old-Time banjo players.