Victoria Bluegrass Association Logo: Bringing People together for the Preservation, Enjoyment and Advancement of Bluegrass and Related Acoustic Music.
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
Tuesday February 28th 9:00pm Orange Hall, 1620 Fernwood Rd (map)
Feature Act: The Riverside Trio

The Riverside Trio is a high energy and entertaining gospel group with a soulful sound inspired by faith and bluegrass gospel traditions. Angus MacKenzie (guitar) and Eric Adams (bass) have been hammering out bluegrass music together for the past decade, and with the addition of Paul Lange (mandolin) the harmonies are even sweeter. They bring it home everywhere they perform to the delight of audiences of all ages.

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 March 3rd 2:00pm to 4:00pm Location TBA
Workshop: Bluegrass Fiddle with Miriam Sonstenes
Bluegrass Fiddle Basics

If you're a fiddle player eager to try out some of the challenging and exciting elements of bluegrass fiddling, this workshop is for you! We'll be covering all the basics, from using a melody to build a break, to chopping and backing up a singer. Chording, bow technique and exercises for improved intonation will also be covered, to help get you sounding like a bluegrass fiddler and knowing what to do in a bluegrass jam!

This workshop is for intermediate and advanced players, but listeners and novices without their instruments are invited too. 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