Tuesday, June 1, 2010

IBMM's Bill Monroe-Style Mandolin Camp 2010

Our Bill Monroe-Style Mandolin Camp will be held at the IBMM in Owensboro, September 10-12.

From Camp Director Mike Compton:


This year's Monroe Mandolin Camp at the IBMM will feature what we think is a bit more adventurous and varied schedule than in years past. We have returning instructors Richie Brown and Skip Gorman and myself from last year. Joining us will be bluegrass legend Bobby Osborne for his second time.

We are looking to Bobby for his memories of days working in close contact with Monroe and hope to include a storytelling class along these lines relating tales of working with Bill backstage at the Opry, working the road, etc .

In addition to that, I have suggested that Bobby teach a couple classes on bluegrass style singing, and he is of a mind this is a good idea, so this is of special interest for those who are fans of authentic bluegrass style singing. Also, he will bring his own unique mandolin style to the table.

We have on staff this year, Dave Harvey and are proud to get him. I think that he is one of the most gifted technicians to ever play a mandolin. Dave's father was an outstanding Monroe style player as well, so Dave gets his influence in that area honestly. He is also very adept at playing in more contemporary stylings, so I think this is an opportunity to learn from him how to step outside the box a bit, to give the old ideas a new twist.

We also are including this year a general help desk for those whose questions are not being answered elsewhere. Each of us will man the desk during the weekend, so be watching for that. Bring questions and come sit a spell.

We are fortunate to have luthiers Will Kimble and Paul Duff with us this year. They have a very informative lineup of topics regarding the history of the F5 mandolin, construction, finishes, self-maintenance, how to install frets, etc.

This is not to be missed for those who are interested in not only playing the mandolin, but possibly building their own. I know that in years past we've had students who were interested in this area, so here's your chance to get your feet wet.

Finally, we will still have the instructor concert as well as the all-night jam at Gabrielle's house. I think this year's event will be better than ever, so tell about 20 of your closest friends and come on to Owensboro this September!

Registration is limited, so don't wait! Click here for more details.