Do you love to sing, dance, jam, or do all of those at the same time? If so, then this session is for you!

Every morning, we have dance classes where both newcomer and experienced dancers will find a lesson for their skill level, followed by an all-camp singing session. After a break for swimming and a delicious lunch, we have an afternoon full of workshops on a wide variety of song repertoire, singing styles, instrumental repertoire, instrument technique, partnered dancing, ritual dance, calling, music history, and more. There is also an hour before dinner where we’ll have a few staff-led jams, but campers are also very welcome to host jams, conversations, and parties too!

After dinner we will enjoy mini-concerts by our brilliant staff followed by a dance featuring contra and English country dancing, plus late-night pub singing, ceilidh dancing, and more. Within each jam-packed day, there is also time built into the schedule for jamming, snoozing, swimming, chatting, or taking some solo time if you need it. Pinewoods offers a beautiful venue for a glorious week of song, dance, learning, connection, revelry, and rejuvenation. I look forward to singing and dancing with you there!

Class Description:

Clawhammer is a banjo style frequently used in old-time music for its unique blend of melody and rhythmic accompaniment. In this workshop, you’ll learn your first tune on clawhammer banjo entirely by ear on your 5-string banjo. We’ll begin with the fundamentals you need to get started, including right and left hand technique and basic rhythmic patterns. As we work through learning your first tune by ear, we’ll also discuss how the banjo’s Black origins impact the clawhammer style we play today. Depending on student interest, we may also explore common tunings and strategies for continuing your learning journey. The workshop will be taught entirely by ear—bringing recording devices is highly encouraged!