Bluegrass Jamming Class

Taught by Rick Sparks using the Wernick Method*

Thursdays, 6:30-9pm - May 10-31

4 sessions, tuition $170
Rick Sparks is equally at home playing banjo, guitar, mandolin, dobro and pedal steel guitar, and singing either lead or harmony. He has developed a reputation as an outstanding teacher on all of his instruments and currently has over 30 students under his wing.
Students at Rick's most recent jam class say:

"Rick got us to make music together by the end of the first class--it seemed miraculous to me."

" Great class, Great fun "

"Rick is so patient and generous with his time and expertise."

"Rick did a superb job of teaching a mixed group of mostly beginners (I am one) and intermediate musicians to jam."

"You know how to put people at ease!"

"Rick's gentle yet persuasive nature is perfect for managing a jam class."

Class is currently full. Click here for info about waiting list.

  • All bluegrass instruments welcome
  • No jamming experience necessary
  • You will be jamming the first class!
  • Friendly encouraging knowledgeable teaching.
  • Mistakes allowed!
  • Singing not required, but encouraged and taught.
  • Easy 2 and 3-chord songs, slow speeds.
  • Soloing not required! "Faking" solos taught.

Do you qualify? It's easier than you may think!
If you play guitar, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, bass, or dobro... you can be part of a bluegrass jam.

Only requirements:

  • You must be able to tune your instrument (electronic tuning devices welcome) and
  • change smoothly between G, C, D, and A. (Fiddles and basses need to know which notes work with which chords)

For more info or to send payment in the mail,
email rick@drbanjo.com



*
Wernick Method Classes teach real bluegrass jamming!
  • Hands-on learning in large and small groups
  • Learn many bluegrass standards
  • Gentle tempos!
  • Full ground rules and etiquette of typical jams
  • How to lead songs and how to follow new songs
  • How to find melodies, fake solos, sing harmony
  • Ear skills taught and emphasized, as in real bluegrass
  • Reading skills not needed/relevant
  • Group and individualized instruction on backup skills
  • Understanding, low-pressure, time-tested teaching

Pete Wernick ("Dr. Banjo", originator of Banjo Camps and Bluegrass Jam Camps) has created a method based on his years of experience teaching jamming.

Wernick Method teachers are certified by Pete based on knowledge of bluegrass, teaching ability, and proper use of the Wernick Method.

Practice jamming at home!

17 songs, just 4 chords and SLOW tempos. This DVD will help you prepare for your first jam class.
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