"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."
April 24, 2009 | River of the West Mandolin Camp, June 12-14
Beautiful scenery, beautiful instruction, beautiful picking. If that doesn't sound like fun, we don't know what does. You can get a great visual taste of the June 12-14 event in Corbett, Oregon (12 miles east of Portland in the Columbia River Gorge) from the camp's promotional video. The event features clinicians Brian Oberlin and Don Stiernberg and is held at the Menucha Retreat Center overlooking the spectacular Columbia River Gorge.
According to website information, "The Columbia River (formerly known as "The River of the West") is the largest volume river flowing into the Pacific Ocean from North America. It travels an impressive 1,234 miles from its headwaters in British Columbia, cutting through the Gorge, before it empties into the Pacific. The Gorge, which is 4,000 feet deep in some places, stretches for 80 miles and contains some of the world’s most beautiful scenery, as well as the greatest concentration of waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest--just right for playing mandolin. The Menucha Retreat Center offers a pool, tennis courts, and lovely walking trails."
Clinic details are on the website, and since the event is limted to 34 students, you'll want to get your registration in soon.
Disclaimer: In the 'Information Age' of the 21st Century,
any fool with a computer, a modem, and an idea can
become a self-professed 'expert." This site does not
come equipped with 'discernment.'