Folk Fiddle Weekend

Folk fiddle performer and specialist Grace Smith leads this deep dive into learning folk music on the fiddle. You will work in a group to learn folk tunes by ear (with support for style of learning if this is new to you). You will then bring these tunes to life, using folk specific techniques and stylistic ideas to help bring groove to the music. 

You'll explore folk tunes collected in England, as well as the music’s links to other traditions from across the UK and Europe. You'll also learn about the dances that go with the tunes. 

Folk tunes are a brilliant way to experience group music making too. You will discover ways into harmony and accompaniment together, developing your ensemble playing skills. 

The ideas explored can all be applied to future folk tunes you learn. Grace will share tips on how to effectively practice folk music so that you can continue your folk fiddle journey beyond the course.

By the end of the course, you will be able to: 

• Play a selection of traditional folk tunes with ideas about style and groove
• Learn how to apply these folk specific techniques to future tunes you learn
• Develop harmony and accompaniment ideas as a fiddle player
• Have ideas about how to practice the skills needed to play folk music, both as an individual musician and in future ensembles
• Feel more confident as a folk fiddle player

The course will largely be taught as a group. The sessions will be taught by ear (and you will be supported in learning this way if it’s new to you). Written music can be provided as a tool to take away with you after the course.

This course designed for fiddle/violin and viola players at the Improver, Confident and Skilful levels. Please see our Ability Levels Explained for further details. 

You should be confident playing in several keys (for example D major, A major, G major). Previous experience of playing folk music is welcome but not required. 

The course will be taught be ear (with support given if learning this way is new to you). Written music can be provided as a tool to take away with you after the course.

No preparation is required. You will need to bring yourself and your fiddle/violin or viola. It would be handy to have a notebook and a recording device/app for recording ideas and tunes explored on the course.