Just lookin’ for some opinions here. The the pragmatic guy that I am (chortle chortle), I’m kinda planning my next year’s vacation/festival getaway, and I’m kinda hoping to make it an East Coast affair with one of the major summer festivals out that way.
So, anyway, enlighten me - which one’s “The S**t” these days? Who’s got the best classes, the best jams? Just keep in mind that I’m a stereotypical starving (almost) student, which means a.) I don’t have a roll to shoot even if I wanted to and b.) I can survive and trhrive quite happily in conditions that most people would consider to be approaching third-world squalor.
Hey, I even survived three years at the Lark in the Morning summer festival - and those who have been know exactly what I’m talking about. Plus, I live in Waco.
Anyway, thanks much for any input you folks can give me on this score.
Ok, you probably know about these 3, but here are the links to check dates and instructors (some of the teachers won’t be decided until much later, I’m sure):
From what I’ve heard, Gaelic Roots in Boston has the best reputation. I’m sure lots of people will have other opinions though Kevin Crawford is supposed to teach there next year. It always sells out, so if you want to go there, sign up before Christmas.
I’ve only been to one, East Durham (Catskills), and I thought it was excellent. They had great teachers and the session scene was fantastic. I personally liked the fact that this one is not on a college campus - all of the classes/sessions are in bars and restaurants.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival is a great scene if you’re into Irish/Newfoundland/Folk music in general. There are a few workshops and it goes on for three days (first weekend of August) with lots of great bands, local and otherwise. It’s a little out of the way for a poor student but well worth the trip if you’re able to make it.
On 2002-09-30 16:35, rhodeirish wrote:
We’re in our first year, but you may want to keep your eye on Skip Healy’s “Wind On The Bay” East Coast Flute Symposium.
Too bad I have a conflict this year and won’t be able to attend, but i’ll definitly be there next year.
jb
I highly recommend the Catskills Irish Arts week. I’ve been twice and I’m really looking forward to next year! I’ve made some great friends and learned a lot. As someone else mentioned, this is not held on a college campus and is spread out all over town. As the week goes on, more and more folks come in from NYC, and there are some amazing players who come just to hang out and play. By the last two nights the place is really hoppin! Some have said that it’s like the Willie Clancy week of the US. If you go, plan on getting very little sleep so rest up before-hand…
Kevin Crawford is supposed to teach there next year. It always sells out, so if you want to go there, sign up before Christmas.