Victoria Bluegrass Association Logo: Bringing People together for the Preservation, Enjoyment and Advancement of Bluegrass and Related Acoustic Music.
Saturday January 28th 2:00pm to 4:00pm Location TBA
Workshop: Rhythm Guitar with Chris Herbst
Eschew the G

Are you stuck in G-position, a little nervous about trying out something fancy in another key ? In this workshop, you will learn to play bluegrass and country guitar classics in keys other than G. We'll check out the different qualities of each position, all without a capo.

Tabbed handouts in the keys of E, D, A, C will be provided, showing basic bass runs and some tag licks.

This workshop is for players who know basic chords, and who are comfortable changing between them. Space is limited. You must pre-register, and to avoid disappointment please register now.

Fees: $25 general, $20 for VBA members
To Register: phone Alan Law at 250-388-4520 or email workshops@victoriabluegrass.ca
Tuesday January 31st 9:00pm Orange Hall, 1620 Fernwood Rd (map)
Feature Act: The Sirens

Lisa Feeney and Jamie Elliott met in 2005 at the University of Victoria and ever since they've been singing and playing all over town. The girls developed a love for old-time music and started a trio with banjo player Caroline Tanner. The three girls danced and sang and played for many joyful years until Caroline headed south, leaving Jamie and Lisa as a duo.

This past summer, the two sirens were dancing around, as they do, and fate came a knockin'. An endlessly beautiful and talented young woman named Ali Romanow would soon be persuaded to join the fun with the two singing sirens. They will make their guitars, banjos, fiddles and occasionally trumpets ring through the rafters for all to enjoy.

Stay well away if you fear enchantment !

Doors open: 7:30 pm
The evening starts with an Open Stage from 7:45pm to 8:45pm. You can sign up for a spot on the Open Stage by contacting Jeb Gordon at 250-886-2614 or email openstage@vicbluegrass.ca

Admission: $7 general, $5 for VBA members, free for open stage performers
More info: Alan Law at 250-388-4520 or email bookings@victoriabluegrass.ca
Saturday February 11th 10:00am to Noon Location TBA
Workshop: The 'Nome and You with Shanti Bremer
Using the Metronome Effectively
. . . and other counting exercises

We will learn how to use a metronome, and how to employ the 'Nome to improve your timing and rhythm. We'll explore using these skills for other areas of playing, such as kickoffs and going between breaks and backup. The goal will be to learn to love the 'Nome, and to develop an intimate relationship with this amazing tool!

All levels and all instruments invited. Space is limited. You must pre-register, and to avoid disappointment please register now.

Fees: $25 general, $20 for VBA members
To Register: phone Alan Law at 250-388-4520 or email workshops@victoriabluegrass.ca
Tuesday February 14th 7:45pm Orange Hall, 1620 Fernwood Rd (map)
Theme Jam: Valentines Day Massacre

Ah, there is nothing like a murder ballad to stir the soul of a bluegrass fan. Knoxville Girl, Banks of the Ohio, Pretty Polly, Caleb Meyer, Katy Dear - you get the idea. Cluny Macpherson and Chris Herbst host this romantic evening of songs about murder, mayhem and madness. Bring along your main squeeze and a bloody weapon, er, song.

These jams are like any other - you are welcome to join the inner circle - but need to bring along 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.

Admission: Players: $3 general, $2 VBA members, Listeners: by donation
More info: phone Alan Law at 250-388-4520 or email bookings@victoriabluegrass.ca
Saturday February 25th 2:00pm to 4:00pm Location TBA
Workshop: Vocal Basics with Ali Romanow
Power and Protect Your Voice

Singing is the bedrock of bluegrass music, and everyone possesses the required instrument. But like any other instrument, the voice needs care and practise to be at its best.

We'll study proper breathing techniques, how to safely expand your vocal range, and how to keep good vocal hygiene. Plus some basic lead and harmony singing.

This workshop will be an interactive and supportive group class for all levels and abilities. Space is limited. You must pre-register, and to avoid disappointment please register now.

Fees: $25 general, $20 for VBA members
To Register: phone Alan Law at 250-388-4520 or email workshops@victoriabluegrass.ca