Cowan Creek Mountain Music School

JUNE 22- 26, 2009THE COWAN CREEK MOUNTAIN MUSIC SCHOOL brings together some of the finest Appalachian old time musicians along with students of all levels, to enjoy a week of learning and fun. Join us as we share and celebrate our rich mountain heritage of lively tunes, heart-felt singing, spirited square dancing and storytelling! Whether an absolute beginner or an advanced musician, all students enjoy an opportunity to improve their playing, dig deeper into the rich repertoire of Kentucky music and gain experience playing with other musicians. Historically, mountain music has been passed down through the generations as young learners listened to and played along with their older family members and neighbors. In keeping with this tradition, all classes at the Cowan Creek Mountain Music School are taught by call and response rather than written music or tab. Whatever your level, this will improve your ear for music and help you join in the fun of playing with other musicians right from the get-go.In addition to classroom instruction, students enjoy classroom visits and performances by masters of traditional music Lee Sexton, Donna and Lewis Lamb, and master-in-residence George Gibson. In the afternoon, students may choose between a beginner’s slow jam, informal string band workshops led by school instructors, story and song cirlces. Following the jams, there's a variety of options for afternoon workshops, including a master class with George Gibson, four part harmony singing, clogging, jug band playing, dulcimer and more. Each evening, students, instructors, and neighbors gather for square dancing and fellowship, and all students are encouraged to be part of the dance band.New this year, we will have not one , but two concerts. On Tuesday, June 23 and Thursday, June 25 the music school’s talented faculty will perform at the Appalshop in Whitesburg, Kentucky. This will give everyone an opportunity to enjoy all the best this talented faculty has to offer. The week wraps up on Friday with a community potluck, student recital and square dance hosted by the Cowan Community Center.