Ben Smith will explain the key elements of Irish fiddle ornamentation, tunes, and styles in a context that is useful for beginning and experienced musicians alike! Whether you've been playing for a short time or a life time, if you want to get a taste for Irish fiddling then this workshop is for you. Expect to come away with a new tune or two in your pocket, the ability to distinguish between a jig, a reel, and a hornpipe, and some new ornaments in your fiddle fingers!
Dr. Smith began his musical journey as a boy in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains in Alabama, fiddling through NY, Ireland and Illinois on his way here. This path can be heard in his playing as elements from many diverse styles, including Celtic influences, bluegrass, jazz, cajun, zydeco, and American old-time, become manifest. As a fiddler Ben has lead a number of bands, toured nationally, and appears on dozens of independent label recordings. Currently Ben performs actively with his acoustic trio, the Mean Lids, who recently released their second CD entitled Kalyx.
Saturday afternoon Nov. 5
1-2pm, Community Center for the Arts Arts (upstairs at the Independent Media Center)
Free! No wristband necessary