The Sunshine Coast School of Celtic Music fiddled into existence in part from the demand for fiddle instruction in a variety of traditional Celtic styles and the love of the music shared by the founders. That was nine years ago and the music director of the Coast String Fiddlers, Ann Law saw an opportunity to bring the instruction to the youth as well as the community.
"We have had all types of traditional music brought to our small
corner of the world and have made many connections with others interested in the same things," said Law.
Another great camp is planned for July 6 to 10 in Roberts Creek, with a stellar line up of instructors from Canada, U.S.A. and Scotland.
"We have teachers who help the novice player, all the way to the more advanced players," said Law. "There are opportunities for accompanying instruments with classes offered in piano, guitar, cello as well as a touch of dancing. These classes are filling up fast. With piano now full. The week ispacked full of exciting workshops, jams and events."
This year, for the first time, a full-time folk choir class led by Mairi Campbell will be offered. Campbell is one of the most influential folk singers of bard status in Scotland today. Campbell directs a very popular community choir in Edinburgh call Sangstream. She was voted the Scot Singer of the year in 2007.
Her version of Auld Land Syne was heard in the Movie of Sex in the City last year. She is passionate about community singing and is hoping to startsomethingnew in the school by including choir. Thisopportunityis not to be missed.
Flutes and whistles led by piper, Donal Brown of the twice nominated Scots Traditional Awards 'Best Folk Band', Breabach is also on tap in addition to the traditional fiddle and accompaniment classes, the popular Trad Band Class is back. Directed towards youth ages 15 to 25, instructors Iain Fraser and Harris Playfair will blend traditional music with the sound of jazz, fusion and rock in a big band setting.
Finally, the week is celebrated by the gala concert on July 10 showcasing the amazing talent of the instructors gathered together for a one of a kind show which is shared with the general public.
"This is an amazing chance to learn different styles of traditional music, take it home and use it all year round; good value for the investment. It doesn't matter if your 10 or 70 years old it's always fun to share what you have learned until the next years camp," said Law.
For further information on registration or gala concert tickets, see
www.coaststringfiddlers.com or call Law at 604-886-4768.
-Submitted
