For those who want to get started in the exciting world of swing guitar. It's easy when you know how! You will learn the essential, moveable chord forms used in swing, the string-damping technique used in the chording hand, and what to do with your strumming hand and arm. We start with simple songs. We build up to understanding the typical chord progressions used in western swing, early jazz, the "standards," Broadway show tunes, etc. If you like to sing, so much the better. The workshop is for those already comfortable playing "regular chords" used in bluegrass.

Space is limited. You must pre-register, and to avoid disappointment please register now.

Barney Hiney and Elizabeth Bergen listen to the jingle, the rumble and the roar, building steam as they bring Old 97 and its lonesome whistle through the curves, fills and tunnels, making up time, avoiding Jesse and the boys, bringing in the Georgia mail.

These jams are like any other - you are welcome to join the inner circle - but you need to bring a song or tune to share. You are strongly encouraged to bring songs you have rehearsed and can perform comfortably. Players need to be proficient enough to follow the chords, keep a good rhythm, and perhaps take the odd break. Listeners and quiet plunkers outside the circle are welcome too.

When you first listen to Elena Yeung perform, you’ll probably wonder from which old folk record or songbook she dug her repertoire from. Growing up in Carberry, Manitoba, moving to places far and wide in Canada including St. John’s, NL and Inuvik, NWT, and finally settling in the agrarian community of Creston, BC, Elena’s songwriting is inspired by timeless and universal themes of day-to-day life. Though most songs are presented with Elena’s persistent, driving banjo roll, the music often has elements of folk, old-time, and country.

Elena is joined by Karl Sommerfeld on fiddle and harmony vocals. Beginning at age 5 by learning Canadian fiddle tunes and classical violin, Karl began playing with local country bands and other eclectic musicians when he moved back to his hometown of Creston in 2005.

Elena and Karl began playing together in 2009, when Karl became addicted to the endless pursuit of bluegrass music. His playing and singing are featured on Elena’s newest CD, Dandelion. At times appearing as a 4-piece band, Elena and Karl also put on a pared-down performance combining fiery fiddle/banjo chemistry.