2024 Workshops

Also known as the Appalachian Dulcimer, this instrument is one of the easiest to get started on! We’ll learn some basics and have you playing some traditional songs in no time! You’ll also see different types of dulcimers and hear some non-traditional ways of playing. There will be some loaners available for participants. Irma is a Winfield finalist and co-founded the New Mexico Dulcimer Association.

This workshop will introduce some ideas about music used for dancing in Scandinavia. Some easy music and the prescribed bowings for the Pols will be one topic. With the rest of the time, participants can choose whether they want to learn a Norwegian Waltz (Vals) or a bridal march (Brudsmarsch).

Come "waulk the wool" with the Celtic Singers of NM and learn the songs sung while processing the wool into waterproof and colorful cloth. The rhythms of "A Thousand Curses on Love" will be fun to learn as our singers lead you through the ancient songs and actions. These Scottish folk songs will come alive in our workshop!

Participants will be taught World Music, Contemporary, Spiritual and Round Songs by call and response, in 3-4 part harmony. ALL VOICES WELCOME! NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Sponsored by Albuquerque's unique ABQ Choir Magic, an Ubuntu community choir where singing is everyone's birthright, based in ABQ for the past 11 years.

The vocal traditions of the Balkans are incredibly rich and diverse, and have been passed down through countless generations. In this one-hour vocal workshop, Rumelia Collective will teach repertoire from multiple regions. We will address finding the natural placement used in this music, while learning to support and care for the voice. We will learn about tonalities, stylistic elements, ornamentation and odd meters. This workshop is open to all levels. Sight-reading is not required, and lyric sheets will be supplied. Recording devices are welcome.

Steve Cormier did ranch, and farm work for nine years toured the US and Canada singing cowboy songs and telling stories. He holds a Ph.D. in American Studies with a dissertation on New Mexico ranching. Steve will start with a round robin sing, so bring an instrument and a working cowboy song! Steve has a new album: Steve Cormier -- Wichita, Albuquerque, and Silver City.

Western European colonists brought the hammered dulcimer to America beginning in the early 1700s where it was used for social dance music in New England and MI, and traditional old-time string band music in WV, VA and NC. With a prior history in Ireland, it has become popular for Celtic music following reintroduction during the 1970s folk revival. Come see how to play yourself, loaner dulcimers provided! Scott co-founded the New Mexico Dulcimer Association.

Presenters will discuss northern New Mexico playing of the violin, guitar, mandolin and guitarron for fiestas. We will demonstrate and teach music as played for old time dances. We will give demonstrations of each instrument with practical teaching of one or two traditional pieces for audience participation and learning.

This workshop will focus on the fundamentals of Clawhammer banjo. Skills including the “bum-ditty” will be explored, and beginning tunes in two different common banjo tunings will be introduced. The vibrant multicultural history of the banjo will also be discussed, so bring your banjo and your questions!

In this hands-on workshop, Glenn will teach bodhrán, the traditional Irish drum. He will cover the basics of the instrument, the different playing styles, playing in sessions, basic rhythms patterns to Celtic music, and developing your own playing styles. Bring your own bodhrán, or we’ll provide practice loaner bodhráns at no charge.