Sierra Fiddle Camp 2025 Schedule
Classes at Sierra Fiddle Camp
There are typically three primary teachers at Sierra Fiddle Camp. Each teacher rotates between Moderate, “Fast Down,” and “Fast Up” classes teaching tunes by ear over the course of the day to fiddlers and players of other instruments who are interested in learning melody. Classes are divided based on students’ rate of learning by ear, and students select which class they wish to attend. Teachers bring music from their own styles and expertise.
This class, typically taught by a team of two teachers, breaks down melodies taught by the primary teachers for learners who have some playing experience but need a slower pace of by-ear learning. This class is open to players of all ages and will learn several of the tunes that are taught throughout the week.
This class is for adults who have no or very little experience with playing the fiddle. Often, there are extra fiddles available for anyone who comes to camp and decides to give fiddle a try for the first time.
This learning track includes both beginning fiddle time and “youth band” time. These classes have covered everything from fiddle basics to playing in dance bands to writing tunes. Fiddle Kids are typically under 12 years of age.
The piano class explores techniques for accompanying fiddle tunes and is geared toward players who already have some experience playing the piano using chords. Students who wish to participate should plan to provide their own electric keyboards and headphones if possible. There are a limited number of pianos that can made available for those who do not have the ability to bring pianos to camp. Contact Registrar Connie Muir with questions.
Typically taught by a team of two teachers and geared toward players who have previous experience playing the guitar, this class explores techniques for accompanying fiddle tunes. The class is sometimes divided into levels based on the experience/learning speeds of the players.
Throughout the week, campers can meet or observe one-on-one sessions that explore everything about playing from ergonomics to reducing pain while playing to the psychology involved in creating music. Sessions are first-come, first-served and times are listed on the whiteboard for signups.
The home of the “big fiddles” (cellos, violas, and basses) at camp, cello class is typically taught by a team of teachers who both break down how to accompany fiddle tunes and teach some tunes throughout the week. The class is sometimes divided into levels based on the experience/learning speeds of the players.
This once-daily class explores arranging techniques, ensemble-playing, and the creative process. Any instruments at camp are welcome!
The social dance caller leads the camp through the nightly camp-wide group dances, both on the dance floor and in more unique locations like in the pool at the camp pool party! All levels of experience are welcome and encouraged to join the dances.
The song circle welcomes singers of all experience levels to join in the beauty of singing together as a group. The song circle is a special time of sharing songs from many places.
The camp piper and bard brings the world of bagpipes, whistles, and other merriment into camp. Classes in chanter- and whistle-playing are offered each day by the camp piper, and the whole camp can expect to hear bagpipes leading the way at many of the activities throughout the week.
After lunch each day, there will be a presentation by one or more members of the camp community that will both inform listeners about a topic and provide the opportunity for discussion about that topic. Discussions have ranged from neuroplasticity to music ergonomics to organic gardening and beyond!
Each day, the slow jam provides a space for those who wish to play tunes either from classes or from the broader repertoire of fiddle tunes at a more accommodating speed.