In short, we're committed to helping you develop your own musical voice.
Instruction
CCMC offers a unique
learning experience for mandolinists: a chance to rehearse and
perform with directed ensembles in various musical styles, and
to study technique, theory and style in depth. The instruction
will be practical, accessible, and well-supported by printed
as well as web-based materials. Expect to meet friends, cultivate
musical relationships, and have a great time -- and go home with
a specific plan for musical development.
Workshops will focus
on:
Students will choose
their own classes. Theory classes will be organized according
to level. Some workshops will be available to non-mandolinists
as well.
Ensembles: Reading, Improvising,
and By-Ear
Students will also have
an opportunity to choose an ensemble based on stylistic preferences,
experience level, reading ability (tablature or standard notation)
and amount of interest in pre-camp preparation.
READING ENSEMBLES: Some
ensembles will play written music primarily or exclusively. Students
will do some advance preparation.
IMPROVISATION ENSEMBLES:
Some ensembles will emphase improvisational skills while also
requiring some reading skills (standard notation, chord symbols
and/or tablature). For those interested in learning parts ahead
of time, sheet music will be provided in standard notation and
tablature.
BY-EAR ENSEMBLES: Some
ensembles will use NO reading or advance preparation. Tunes will
be taught and performed by ear. NO READING ABILITY IS REQUIRED
for these ensembles.
Learning and Performance Opportunities
CCMC will present attendees
with an excellent learning experience. The mandolin is an expressive
and versatile instrument found in diverse styles including Celtic,
bluegrass, American old-time, klezmer, eastern-European, Brazilian,
classical, rock, jazz and more. Yet many of these styles rely
on the same basic set of technical and musical skills. Our instructors
will focus on the fundamental techniques and knowledge applicable
to any musical style -- as well as the specifics of each.
In addition to various
classes covering repertoire, technique and theory, players will
choose ensembles based on levels and musical interests. Each
ensemble will be coached by a faculty member, and will perform
in front of a supportive and appreciative audience as part of
the Sunday afternoon concert. There will also be plenty of opportunities
for jamming!
A specialized track
for beginners will help new players to get started.
Location
The camp will take place
on Cape Cod in one of America's most beautiful resorts: East
Sandwich Beach, Massachusetts. Sandwich is only 10 minutes past
the Sagamore Bridge. It is easily reached by both Boston and
Providence. Family members of the participants are welcome. There's
plenty to do on Cape Cod, so no one will get bored!
Accommodations will
be at the East Sandwich Beach housekeeping cottages. These are
comfortable rental cottages directly on one of Cape Cod's most
scenic beaches. The cottages are equipped with complete kitchens.
Lunch and Saturday dinner will be provided; this is included
in the basic tuition fees. Breakfast supplies will be available
for use in the cottages.
Both the Saturday faculty concert and Sunday student performance
will take place at the East Sandwich Grange Hall -- a wonderful
19th-Century community hall, renovated in 1937. Its warm hardwood
interior has perfect acoustics for mandolins!
Housing
Most
housing is in 2- or 3-bedroom cottages by the beach (or across the
street). The housing prices below reflect the cost of one room (or
shared room) in one of these cottages. The cottages have shared kitchen
and bath facilities. Direct beachfront housing may require a short
drive (1-2 miles), but parking will be easy.
