The Old-Time String Band Ensemble is open to early intermediate through advanced players of mainly acoustic stringed instruments (fiddle, mandolin, banjo, guitar, bass, dulcimer, etc). We’ll learn to play several songs and fiddle tunes in the fun ensemble style of old-time string band music, and we’ll work on how to play together in order to get a great sound while spending time on melodies, harmonies, dynamics, arrangements and chords, but most importantly… be ready to get rhythm! A recording device is recommended.

HOSTED BY BRETT RATLIFF
Workshop Series: 8 Weeks (August 12 - September 30)
Tuition: $400
Enrollment: 12 maximum

Born and raised in Van Lear, KY, Brett Ratliff is a 2022 United States Artists Fellow in Traditional Arts. Brett has shared the music and stories of his home at such music camps and venues as - The Festival of American Fiddle Tunes in Port Townsend, WA; Louisville Folk School in Louisville, KY; Celtic Connections in Glasgow, Scotland; Nimble Fingers Music Festival in British Columbia, Canada; Oly Old Time Festival in Olympia, WA; Portland Old Time Gathering in Portland, OR; Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago, IL; Swannanoa Gathering in Swannanoa, NC; Brooklyn Folk Festival in Brooklyn, NY; Augusta Heritage Old-Time Week in Elkins, WV; and Sore Fingers Week in Oxfordshire, England. He now lives in Fayetteville.