"Good improvisation communicates harmonic progression melodically. Effective melodies manipulate harmonic content through the use of guide tones and preparatory gravity notes, masterfully woven in systematic tension, release, and transparent harmonic definition."
January 7, 2015 | River of the West Mandolin Camp 2015
If you haven't already, read through our archive Tips and Tricks feature with staff contributor Brian Oberlin. His nuts and bolts approach to music theory on the mandolin fretboard is a great gateway for the novice player, and extra-credit material for the more advanced. His introduction to Diatonic Major and Minor Chords provides a crucial overview to understanding not only jazz, but Western European music in general.
Brian is an in-demand performer and teacher, but we should also mention his sensational work administrating the River of the West Mandolin Camp. Several of our readers have weighed in about what a great experience it was. Now in its 7th year, the workshops and educational experiences only get better.
The June 4-7 event is located in Corbett, Oregon, located in the Columbia River Gorge just 20 miles east of Portland. Instructor's include Don Stiernberg (swing and jazz), Evan Marshall (classical and folk), Chris Acquavella (classical) and the Camp director Brian Oberlin (bluegrass and swing). In the four days of mandolin immersion, each Camper will experience workshops from all four teachers, ensemble rehearsals and performance, structured and non-structured jams, bonfires, meals, and lodging. The maximum student capacity is 45 which makes for smaller classes from some of the best teachers and players in the world. The cost for campers and commuters is $550 which includes all events, meals, and a shared room.
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January 7, 2015 | River of the West Mandolin Camp 2015
