ENSEMBLES Americana Ensemble with Lloyd Thayer and Eric McDonald
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. Have you taken a class and you're ready to play songs with other instruments? Join the Americana Ensemble and get some experience playing with mandolin players, fiddlers, guitarists, vocalists, and more. Singer-songwriters, join us if you'd like to work on arrangements of your songs with a band.
All instruments are welcome. We'll be covering Americana, folk, blues, country, old-time and bluegrass. The specific genres and songs will depend on which instruments are represented in the ensemble. Students should have basic knowledge about the different chords and how to play their instrument.
FIDDLE Beginning Fiddle with Kimberley Fraser $132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. This six-week course will encompass your basic "fiddle from scratch" class and is geared towards people with minimal or no previous experience. Students will learn how to tune and hold the fiddle, along with some basic scales. The goal will be to learn and memorize some basic and popular session tunes. There will also be focus on ear training development. By the end of the course, participants will be able to understand a little more about the instrument, and attend jam sessions without fear! Must have a tape recorder and blank tape (or the mini disc equivalent) at each lesson, and a fiddle. Please make sure fiddles are in good working order (having all four strings, relatively in tune, etc) for the first class. This class is for complete beginners to the violin; if you have violin experience, we encourage you to take Intermediate Fiddle. Kimberley Fraser was born on Cape Breton Island, and nurtured within its rich musical heritage. She has shared the stage with the finest acts in Celtic music, such as Alasdair Fraser, Martin Hayes and Lunasa. Kimberley holds a degree in Violin performance from Berklee College of Music and in Celtic Studies from St Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia. Her reputation as a teacher has brought her to conduct workshops at many camps and festivals, including Alasdair Fraser’s Valley of the Moon Fiddle Camp, the Swannanoa Gathering in Asheville, North Carolina, and The American Festival of Fiddle Tunes in Port Townsend, Washington to name a few.
Intermediate Fiddle with Hanneke Cassel
5 weeks - $110 nonmembers / $90 members Register here. The focus of these courses will be to explore traditional and contemporary Scottish and Cape Breton music. We will learn about the elements that characterize these styles of fiddle music--bowings, grace notes, and others. Tunes will be taught by EAR, and students are asked to bring a recording device to class. Similar material will be taught in both the intermediate and advanced classes, the difference being the rate at which the students learn.
"Exuberant and rhythmic, somehow both wild and innocent, delivered with captivating melodic clarity and an irresistible playfulness," says the Boston Globe about Hanneke Cassel's playing. Such charismatic fiddling has brought the native Oregonian many honors and awards. She is the 1997 U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion, she holds a Bachelors of Music in Violin Performance from Berklee College of Music, and she has performed and taught across North America, Europe, New Zealand, Australia, and China.
Advanced Fiddle with Hanneke Cassel
5 weeks - $110 nonmembers / $90 members Register here. The focus of these courses will be to explore traditional and contemporary Scottish and Cape Breton music. We will learn about the elements that characterize these styles of fiddle music--bowings, grace notes, and others. Tunes will be taught by EAR, and students are asked to bring a recording device to class. Similar material will be taught in both the intermediate and advanced classes, the difference being the rate at which the students learn.
"Exuberant and rhythmic, somehow both wild and innocent, delivered with captivating melodic clarity and an irresistible playfulness," says the Boston Globe about Hanneke Cassel's playing. Such charismatic fiddling has brought the native Oregonian many honors and awards. She is the 1997 U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion, she holds a Bachelors of Music in Violin Performance from Berklee College of Music, and she has performed and taught across North America, Europe, New Zealand, Australia, and China.
GUITAR Guitar 1 with Janet Feld
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. Would you love to learn to play the guitar but wonder if you’re too old, too slow, have no natural musical ability or just too busy? I’ve been teaching people as young as 3 and as old as 89 lessons for over 20 years and know from experience everyone can learn and enjoy playing the guitar. This class is for you if you’ve never played guitar before or know just a small amount. The group format offers a fun opportunity to learn while witnessing the fact that everyone has a learning curve. Each week we learn a song that utilizes different chords, strumming patterns and some basic sheet music navigation information. I’ll also help you create a manageable practice regimen. Please bring a guitar and flat pick. Song list: Amazing Grace, Leaving on a Jet Plane, Scarborough Fair, Hey Jude, Wildflowers (Tom Petty), I Fall To Pieces (Patsy Cline), Drunken Angel (Lucinda Williams), Heart of Gold (Neil Young)
Guitar 2 with Janet Feld
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. This class is a continuation of Guitar 1 and for you if you’re able to play and switch open chords with relative comfort. As with all of my classes, each week we learn a song or two each of which contains a skill set; new chords, strumming & finger picking patterns, information about navigating sheet music and tabs. Toward the end of the semester I’ll introduce you to bar chords and show you how to make friends with them. We’ll work on various finger exercises to help build strength and dexterity and I’ll help you create a manageable practice regimen. Please bring a guitar, flat pick and capo. Song list: Satisfaction (Rolling Stones), Killin’ The Blues, We’re Gonna Be Friends (White Stripes), Speed of the Sound of Loneliness (John Prine), As Tears Go By (Rolling Stones), Father & Son (Cat Stevens), Sugar Mountain (Neil Young).
Guitar 3 with Janet Feld
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. This class is a continuation of Guitar 2 and for you if you’d like to work on making friends with bar chords. As with all of my classes, each week we learn a song or two each of which contains a skill set; new chords, strumming & finger picking patterns, information about navigating sheet music and tabs. Toward the end of the semester I’ll introduce you to open tunings and fun ways to explore using them. We’ll work on various finger exercises to help build strength and dexterity and I’ll help you create a manageable practice regimen. Please bring a guitar, flat pick and capo. Song list: She’s A Rebel (Green Day), Trouble In The Fields (Nanci Griffith), Fields of Gold (Sting), Heart of the Matter (Don Henley), Luka (Suzanne Vega), Diamond In The Rough (Shawn Colvin)
Jazz Guitar for Folkies – Dig that crazy rhythm! With Chris Welles $132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. This course will teach you the chords and strumming patterns to accompany yourself (and others) on jazz tunes. We'll cover classic swing tunes - like Summertime, All of Me, and Autumn Leaves – and related jazz styles like gypsy jazz, western swing and even a little bebop. We'll learn some basic movable (no open strings) jazz chords. You're ready for the class if can play familiar songs in constant tempo and are comfortable with barre chords. (Yet you'll be glad to find that swing chords are easier than barre chords.) Handouts provided, tape recorders encouraged.
Chris Welles is the guitarist and lead vocalist for Outrageous Fortune, a jug band who play early jazz and blues on both sides of the Charles River. Chris taught himself to play finger-style guitar as a teenager by wearing grooves in his country blues records. He went on to study jazz at Berklee College of Music ("but not enough to hurt my playing").
Improv for Guitarists with Chris Brenne
5 weeks - $110 nonmembers / $90 members Register here.
Learn about the fretboard in order to instantly create vivid guitar parts and learn to express yourself in real time. Learn to work either from scratch or create parts that can go with an existing song or jam. We’ll go over scales to use for melodies and riffs, elaborations, fills etc. I will also give you an introduction to chordal positions and scenarios that will allow you to create a richer, fuller sound as well as instant, or not, second guitar parts. We will discuss how to achieve this burst of creativity as well...and the best part of it: there will be plenty of jamming!
Chris Brenne has been a singer/ songwriter for almost as long as he can remember. He originally learned to play so he could sing protest songs. John Lennon was the inspiration, and pretty soon, music had taken over his life. Teaching guitar lessons from an early age, Chris decided to go all out and went to Berklee College of Music, an adventure for a boy from Sweden. Afterwards teaching came calling again, first as a Rock School teacher in Sweden, then back to America and various assignments in music store basements and evening adult classes, eventually at Cambridge Center for Adult Education. Over time, he developed new material and wrote books, mostly for guitar but with a nice dash of theory. In between teaching songwriting and theory classes, Chris has continued to have a healthy output of originally music, most recently a couple of finger style guitar musings that work for yoga. Chris has a recording studio and helps other musicians record their own music. With his experience, Chris could cover the whole process – teaching you to play, write songs and then record you doing what you love. www.chrisbrenne.com
HARMONICA Beginning Harmonica with Lloyd Thayer
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. Would you like to add another instrument to your repertoire, without carrying yet one more thing around? Well, have we got the instrument for you! Not only is a harmonica cheap, and fun to play, it easily fits in your pocket and can go anywhere with you. This class will start at the very beginning with basic techniques and move through a variety of styles, including straight harp and cross harp. We will explore the music of players like Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan, and Neil Young, and then move on to the blues styles of Sonny Boy Williamson, Little Walter, and Sonny Terry. No experience necessary; all levels are welcome. Students will need to provide a diatonic harmonica in the key of C. If you have questions about purchasing a harmonica, or the class, you can email the instructor at: .
MANDOLIN Beginning Mandolin with Eric McDonald
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here.
In this course, we will start with the basics and give students a solid base of knowledge from which to build upon. We will cover basic technique, chord structures up the neck and improvisation. We will incorporate music theory, but do most of our work by ear. Using a group of simple fiddle tunes and songs, we will build a pallet of ideas that will hopefully inspire students to continue study on their own. We'll talk about practice techniques and learn how to produce good tone on the instrument. We'll work with scales and exercises to increase each student's fluidity on the mandolin quickly, which will allow us to take full advantage of our creativity. Be prepared to use your ears and musical brains, and expect to do some work. Students will be expected to practice for at least one hour per week.
Eric McDonald, a former Berklee College of Music student, plays mandolin and guitar for many touring bands and songwriters including The Dave Rowe Trio, Matching Orange and others. He has brought his music all over the United States and into Europe. In addition to teaching at Passim, you can find him instructing young musicians at New England fiddle camps during the summer.
MUSIC THEORY Music Theory for the Singer-Songwriter with Chris Brenne
5 weeks - $110 nonmembers / $90 members Register here.
Writing your own songs is one of the most rewarding modes of expression. Sometimes, however, we don’t know what to write next. A great melody doesn’t fall into place, a super chorus can’t be matched by good verses or vice versa. This is when a firm understanding of music theory can be a very handy tool. This course will address that. We’ll lay the foundation by explaining scales, keys, chords, and how they all relate. We will analyze famous chord progressions - sing the songs, too, and find out what exactly made each of them tick. Most importantly, we’ll do all this in relation to your own song writing. Through assignments you will apply each new bit of knowledge to your own music. And if you’re a guitarist, then we shall discuss how it all relates to your fretboard.
Oh, and, we will also have loads of fun!
Chris Brenne has been a singer/ songwriter for almost as long as he can remember. He originally learned to play so he could sing protest songs. John Lennon was the inspiration, and pretty soon, music had taken over his life. Teaching guitar lessons from an early age, Chris decided to go all out and went to Berklee College of Music, an adventure for a boy from Sweden. Afterwards teaching came calling again, first as a Rock School teacher in Sweden , then back to America and various assignments in music store basements and evening adult classes, eventually at Cambridge Center for Adult Education. Over time, he developed new material and wrote books, mostly for guitar but with a nice dash of theory. In between teaching songwriting and theory classes, Chris has continued to have a healthy output of originally music, most recently a couple of finger style guitar musings that work for yoga. Chris has a recording studio and helps other musicians record their own music. With his experience, Chris could cover the whole process – teaching you to play, write songs and then record you doing what you love. www.chrisbrenne.com
SONGWRITING/PERFORMANCE Songwriting 101 with Janet Feld
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here.
If you're not only drawn to listen to music but have also to play it, you're a songwriter; if you've never written a song before it's only because your songwriting "faucet" hasn't been opened yet. Opening your faucet is what this class is all about. Each week we will do specific, simple exercises that keep your pen moving and take the mystery out of writing songs. You'll also learn about basic song structure, creating melodies and simple music theory (the stuff you might feel like you'd have to study at a music school for hundreds of years to understand - thankfully, this is not so!). Please bring paper and a writing utensil.
"What a wonderfully creative experience! I have already written 2 songs, and I am feeling so much more confident that what I am writing is interesting. You are such a great teacher Janet. You always make something that can be vulnerable a very calming, comfortable and safe environment…most importantly….Fun! You have a true gift. Thank you for sharing it with me!" Jessica C.
Performance Techniques with Sean P. Rogan
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here.
Anxiety is one of the biggest obstacles to overcome when performing live. In this class, you will have the chance to perform in front of your peers and receive constructive criticism. Everyone will be a performer as well as an audience member. The class will be based around honesty and respect. Performing is a very physical act, in addition to being mental and emotional. Gain an awareness of your body, mind and song. Performances will include cover songs and/or original compositions. Bring your instrument and an open mind. You will become a more confident and relaxed performer, which allows your best music to come out.
This class is open to anyone who can perform at least 3 songs start to finish. All styles, instruments and levels welcome!
Sean P. Rogan plays guitar AND sings at the same time. Rogan, a resident of Rhode Island, received “Best Singer Songwriter” in the 2009 Providence Phoenix, was a semi-finalist in the 2009 WBRU Rock Hunt and plays locally as well as touring nationally and internationally. He received his degree in Music Education from Berklee College of Music. Sean has spent the last 14 years writing and recording records and touring the world as a founding member of Boston’s Big D and the Kids Table. With a built in fan base for his solo project, Sean continues to write, record and tour with Big D as well as on his own. When asked how to describe his music, Rogan said, “It’s good for campfires or coffee shops, to fall asleep or make out to.” Sean’s musical inspirations include Jack Johnson, The Beatles, Nada Surf, Coldplay, Bob Marley, the Flaming Lips and Huey Lewis.
UKULELE
Beginning Ukulele with Tim Mann
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here.
With the ukulele revival in full swing, take advantage of a sure fire way to beat the winter blues. Tim Mann teaches beginning ukulele in a fun and relaxed style, and whether you have never played before, or have picked up a uke and strummed a few chords, you'll learn the basic elements of simple uke playing in no time, and before you know it, you'll be the hit at the next party. Tim will demonstrate basic chords, strumming patterns and introduce you to some of your favorite songs adapted for the ukulele.
Tim Mann has been teaching ukulele since 2005, and has had students ranging in age from 5 to 75. As a founding memeber of 'Ukulele Noir', and current member of the Greg Hawkes Ukulele Trio, Tim has performed throughout the New England area, recently opening for Ukulele wizard Jake Shimabukuro.
VOICE Private Voice Lessons with Maria McNeil
$165 nonmembers / $150 members
To register, select a time slot from the Class Calendar.
Join Maria for 6 weeks of private lessons to get your voice in good shape. If you sing a little bit, but you would like to learn new techniques and learn a healthier, more effective way to sing, these lessons are perfect for you. Maria will help you develop and strengthen your voice while helping you build confidence in your singing. Since this is a private lesson, you will be able to focus on songs and aspects of singing that interest you. This opportunity is appropriate for beginners (including shower singers!) to experienced singers who are looking for more structured practice.
Maria McNeil is a Berklee College of Music graduate with a professional music degree. Her studies concentrated in vocal performance and songwriting. She currently sings as a background vocalist for a local artist. She sings mostly jazz, r&b and pop music. McNeil has performed in Chicago, Boston, New York City and has worked with recording artists in the Nashville area.
All Course Descriptions
These courses will be offered on a rotating basis throughout the year. Fall 2010 classes are marked with an asterisk.
BANJO Beginning 3-Finger Banjo with Charlie Rose
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
Join Charlie Rose for an introduction to banjo playing. The course will primarily cover 3-finger technique, but may delve into other styles depending on students' interests. The course will cover fundamentals of 3-finger banjo playing in bluegrass and folk music. It will be suitable for beginner and intermediate players who want to develop and improve their technique. Students are encouraged to bring a recording device. Expect to learn basic banjo concepts and their application to classic repertoire.
BODHRAN Beginning-Intermediate Bodhran with Eoin McQuinn
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
One of Ireland’s oldest and most traditional musical instruments, the Bodhran drum is at the core of all Irish music experience. This six week course for beginners to intermediate students will focus on Technique and Style, Rhythm study and understanding the different tune types ( jigs, reels and polkas), group playing, technical instruction and accompaniment are the core areas of learning.
Born in Ireland in 1973, Eoin McQuinn graduated with a Masters Degree in Ethnomusicology at University of Limerick in 1998. His extensive performance career has seen him develop projects in the USA, UAE, South America, Australia, China and Tawian and most recently in Nairobi, Kenya. He was Music Director of The National Folk Theatre of Ireland, The National Irish Dance Company and the first festival of Irish Music in Dubai. His lives and works in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
ENSEMBLES * Americana Ensemble with Lloyd Thayer and Eric McDonald
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. Have you taken a class and you're ready to play songs with other instruments? Join the Americana Ensemble and get some experience playing with mandolin players, fiddlers, guitarists, vocalists, and more. Singer-songwriters, join us if you'd like to work on arrangements of your songs with a band.
All instruments are welcome. We'll be covering Americana, folk, blues, country, old-time and bluegrass. The specific genres and songs will depend on which instruments are represented in the ensemble. Students should have basic knowledge about the different chords and how to play their instrument.
FIDDLE * Beginning Fiddle with Kimberley Fraser $132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. This six-week course will encompass your basic "fiddle from scratch" class and is geared towards people with minimal or no previous experience. Students will learn how to tune and hold the fiddle, along with some basic scales. The goal will be to learn and memorize some basic and popular session tunes. There will also be focus on ear training development. By the end of the course, participants will be able to understand a little more about the instrument, and attend jam sessions without fear! Must have a tape recorder and blank tape (or the mini disc equivalent) at each lesson, and a fiddle. Please make sure fiddles are in good working order (having all four strings, relatively in tune, etc) for the first class. This class is for complete beginners to the violin; if you have violin experience, we encourage you to take Intermediate Fiddle. Kimberley Fraser was born on Cape Breton Island, and nurtured within its rich musical heritage. She has shared the stage with the finest acts in Celtic music, such as Alasdair Fraser, Martin Hayes and Lunasa. Kimberley holds a degree in Violin performance from Berklee College of Music and in Celtic Studies from St Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia. Her reputation as a teacher has brought her to conduct workshops at many camps and festivals, including Alasdair Fraser’s Valley of the Moon Fiddle Camp, the Swannanoa Gathering in Asheville, North Carolina, and The American Festival of Fiddle Tunes in Port Townsend, Washington to name a few.
Beginner Fiddle Part 2 with Kimber Ludiker $132 nonmembers / $108 members This six-week course is geared towards fiddlers who know some violin basics, but are excited to develop their sound and technique, while learning and memorizing some fun fiddle tunes. We will explore stylistic aspects such as bowing, grace notes, drones, chords, etc. All tunes will be taught by ear, and recordings of class material will be provided weekly.
Beginner Fiddle Part 2 with Hanneke Cassel $132 nonmembers / $108 members This six-week course is geared towards fiddlers who know some violin basics, but want to beef up their Scottish fiddle repertoire, and start exploring stylistic aspects of the music (bowings, grace notes, etc.) Students must know how to hold the fiddle and should have at least a few months of playing experience. All tunes will be taught be ear (without sheet music), so a recording device is encouraged.
* Intermediate Fiddle with Hanneke Cassel
5 weeks - $110 nonmembers / $90 members Register here. The focus of these courses will be to explore traditional and contemporary Scottish and Cape Breton music. We will learn about the elements that characterize these styles of fiddle music--bowings, grace notes, and others. Tunes will be taught by EAR, and students are asked to bring a recording device to class. Similar material will be taught in both the intermediate and advanced classes, the difference being the rate at which the students learn.
"Exuberant and rhythmic, somehow both wild and innocent, delivered with captivating melodic clarity and an irresistible playfulness," says the Boston Globe about Hanneke Cassel's playing. Such charismatic fiddling has brought the native Oregonian many honors and awards. She is the 1997 U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion, she holds a Bachelors of Music in Violin Performance from Berklee College of Music, and she has performed and taught across North America, Europe, New Zealand, Australia, and China.
* Advanced Fiddle with Hanneke Cassel
5 weeks - $110 nonmembers / $90 members Register here. The focus of these courses will be to explore traditional and contemporary Scottish and Cape Breton music. We will learn about the elements that characterize these styles of fiddle music--bowings, grace notes, and others. Tunes will be taught by EAR, and students are asked to bring a recording device to class. Similar material will be taught in both the intermediate and advanced classes, the difference being the rate at which the students learn.
"Exuberant and rhythmic, somehow both wild and innocent, delivered with captivating melodic clarity and an irresistible playfulness," says the Boston Globe about Hanneke Cassel's playing. Such charismatic fiddling has brought the native Oregonian many honors and awards. She is the 1997 U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion, she holds a Bachelors of Music in Violin Performance from Berklee College of Music, and she has performed and taught across North America, Europe, New Zealand, Australia, and China.
Advanced Fiddle with Kimberley Fraser
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
Refer to Hanneke Cassel's Advanced Fiddle description.
Advanced Fiddle with Kimber Ludiker
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
The focus of these courses will be to explore a variety of fiddle genres and techniques, guided by the students' interests. We will learn how to develop and strengthen ear training, technique, rhythm, and style-- and learn some really fun fiddle tunes. All tunes will be taught by ear, and recordings will be provided weekly, though students are encouraged to bring a recording device to class.
“Not Celtic” Fiddle with Kimber Ludiker
Intermediate "Not-Celtic" fiddle class from the current National Oldtime Fiddle Champion, Kimber Ludiker. Although a lover of all things Celtic (she has toured with Riverdance's Michael Londra), Kimber will take this opportunity to round-out your fiddle repertoire with tunes from a variety of fiddling styles including: bluegrass, oldtime, texas-style, western swing, new acoustic, and some fun rhythmic accompaniment. Kimber has been fiddling since age three, is a member of local "contemporary folkgrass" band Broken Blossoms, and is an avid haver-of-FUN.
GUITAR * Guitar 1 with Janet Feld
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. Would you love to learn to play the guitar but wonder if you’re too old, too slow, have no natural musical ability or just too busy? I’ve been teaching people as young as 3 and as old as 89 lessons for over 20 years and know from experience everyone can learn and enjoy playing the guitar. This class is for you if you’ve never played guitar before or know just a small amount. The group format offers a fun opportunity to learn while witnessing the fact that everyone has a learning curve. Each week we learn a song that utilizes different chords, strumming patterns and some basic sheet music navigation information. I’ll also help you create a manageable practice regimen. Please bring a guitar and flat pick. Song list: Amazing Grace, Leaving on a Jet Plane, Scarborough Fair, Hey Jude, Wildflowers (Tom Petty), I Fall To Pieces (Patsy Cline), Drunken Angel (Lucinda Williams), Heart of Gold (Neil Young)
* Guitar 2 with Janet Feld
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. This class is a continuation of Guitar 1 and for you if you’re able to play and switch open chords with relative comfort. As with all of my classes, each week we learn a song or two each of which contains a skill set; new chords, strumming & finger picking patterns, information about navigating sheet music and tabs. Toward the end of the semester I’ll introduce you to bar chords and show you how to make friends with them. We’ll work on various finger exercises to help build strength and dexterity and I’ll help you create a manageable practice regimen. Please bring a guitar, flat pick and capo. Song list: Satisfaction (Rolling Stones), Killin’ The Blues, We’re Gonna Be Friends (White Stripes), Speed of the Sound of Loneliness (John Prine), As Tears Go By (Rolling Stones), Father & Son (Cat Stevens), Sugar Mountain (Neil Young).
* Guitar 3 with Janet Feld
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. This class is a continuation of Guitar 2 and for you if you’d like to work on making friends with bar chords. As with all of my classes, each week we learn a song or two each of which contains a skill set; new chords, strumming & finger picking patterns, information about navigating sheet music and tabs. Toward the end of the semester I’ll introduce you to open tunings and fun ways to explore using them. We’ll work on various finger exercises to help build strength and dexterity and I’ll help you create a manageable practice regimen. Please bring a guitar, flat pick and capo. Song list: She’s A Rebel (Green Day), Trouble In The Fields (Nanci Griffith), Fields of Gold (Sting), Heart of the Matter (Don Henley), Luka (Suzanne Vega), Diamond In The Rough (Shawn Colvin)
Guitar 4 with Janet Feld
$132 nonmembers / $108 members This class is a continuation of Guitar 3 and for you if you’d like to continue working with bar chords and open tunings. As long as you can play bar chords with relative comfort this class should be a good fit for you. As with all of my classes, each week we learn a song or two each of which contains a skill set; new chords, strumming & finger picking patterns, information about navigating sheet music and tabs. We’ll work on various finger exercises to help build strength and dexterity and I’ll help you create a manageable practice regimen. Please bring a guitar, flat pick and capo. Song list: Born To Be Wild (Steppenwolf), Don’t Let It Bring You Down (Neil Young), Forget About It (Alison Krauss), Hotel California (Eagles), The Wind (Cat Stevens) and depending upon the pace of the group: Pinball Wizard (The Who), Judas (Antje Duvekot)
Bluegrass and Fiddle Tunes for the Curious Guitarist with Jordan Tice
$110 nonmembers / $90 members
If you've taken a guitar class or two and you want to add some new styles to your repertoire, this is the class for you. Jordan will give you an overview of the flatpicking style, from rhythm playing and accompaniment to improvising bluegrass licks. Throughout the course, you will play fiddle tunes on the guitar while focusing on the rhythm and technique that tie it all together. By the end of the course, you'll be ready to jump right in to play alongside banjos, mandolins, and fiddles!
Introduction to Blues Guitar with Brooks Williams
Which is your shade of blue? Check out a few options in this introduction to blues guitar. Topics include the 12-Bar form, blues shuffle rhythms, and a sampling of blues styles from the Piedmont to East Texas, from Blind Willie McTell (Statesboro Blues) and Blind Boy Fuller (Weepin’ Willow Blues) to John Lee Hooker (Boom Boom) and Big Bill Broonzey (In The Evening). Topics include traditional blues forms, lyric patterns, chord voicings, riffs and walking bass lines. All levels welcome, but many ideas will be geared for the player who knows the first position chords (G, C, D, E, A, B, F, Em, Am, Dm, B7, E7, A7, C7, etc.).
Fingerstyle Guitar with Brooks Williams
Fingerstyle guitar shares a close kinship to the piano in the way chords, melody and rhythms happen simultaneously. In this workshop we will explore some of the techniques needed to play in this style: fingerpicking chord arpeggios, moving chord shapes up and down the neck, and adding melody notes to the chord rhythms. All levels welcome, but many ideas will be geared for the player who knows the first position chords and has a beginning understanding of fingerpicking.
Voted one of the Top 100 Acoustic Guitarists of all-time, Brooks Williams has been touring for 22 years, both in North America and abroad, with his powerful acoustic and resonator slide guitars. He has recorded over 16 CDs and has shared the stage with the likes of Taj Mahal, John Hammond, Maria Muldaur, Billy Bragg, and Leo Kottke and been lauded by the likes of Acoustic Guitar, Blues Revue, and Blues In Britain. Dirty Linen calls him “one of America’s musical treasures.”
Swing Guitar for Folkies - Dig that Crazy Rhythm with Chris Welles
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
This course will teach you the chords and strumming patterns to accompany yourself (and others) on swing tunes. We'll cover classic songs like Summertime, Sweet Georgia Brown, All of Me, Blue Skies, and Lady Be Good. We'll learn some basic movable (no open strings) jazz chords. You're ready for the class if can play familiar songs in constant tempo and are comfortable with barre chords. (Yet you'll be glad to find that swing chords are easier than barre chords.) Handouts provided, tape recorders encouraged.
Chris Welles is the guitarist and lead vocalist for Outrageous Fortune, a jug band who play early jazz and blues on both sides of the Charles River. Chris taught himself to play finger-style guitar as a teenager by wearing grooves in his country blues records. He went on to study jazz at Berklee College of Music ("but not enough to hurt my playing"). www.outrageousfortune.org
Intermediate Swing Guitar for Folkies with Chris Welles
$132 nonmembers / $108 members This class is a continuation of Beginning Swing Guitar, and explores classic swing rhythm guitar and related styles like Western Swing and Gypsy Jazz. We'll cover tunes like I Got Rhythm, Honeysuckle Rose, I Can't Give You Anything But Love, Blues Skies and Lady Be Good. We'll add to our repertoire of basic movable jazz chords with chord extensions; and introduce techniques for improvising on swing tunes. You're ready for the class if you know some movable jazz chords (like Cmaj7 and G6 at the 3d fret) and can play a steady four-to-the-bar strum at moderate tempo. Handouts provided, tape recorders encouraged.
Chris Welles is the guitarist and lead vocalist for Outrageous Fortune, a jug band who play early jazz and blues on both sides of the Charles River. Chris taught himself to play finger-style guitar as a teenager by wearing grooves in his country blues records. He went on to study jazz at Berklee College of Music ("but not enough to hurt my playing"). www.outrageousfortune.org
* Jazz Guitar for Folkies – Dig that crazy rhythm! With Chris Welles $132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. This course will teach you the chords and strumming patterns to accompany yourself (and others) on jazz tunes. We'll cover classic swing tunes - like Summertime, All of Me, and Autumn Leaves – and related jazz styles like gypsy jazz, western swing and even a little bebop. We'll learn some basic movable (no open strings) jazz chords. You're ready for the class if can play familiar songs in constant tempo and are comfortable with barre chords. (Yet you'll be glad to find that swing chords are easier than barre chords.) Handouts provided, tape recorders encouraged.
Chris Welles is the guitarist and lead vocalist for Outrageous Fortune, a jug band who play early jazz and blues on both sides of the Charles River. Chris taught himself to play finger-style guitar as a teenager by wearing grooves in his country blues records. He went on to study jazz at Berklee College of Music ("but not enough to hurt my playing").
* Improv for Guitarists with Chris Brenne
5 weeks - $110 nonmembers / $90 members Register here.
Learn about the fretboard in order to instantly create vivid guitar parts and learn to express yourself in real time. Learn to work either from scratch or create parts that can go with an existing song or jam. We’ll go over scales to use for melodies and riffs, elaborations, fills etc. I will also give you an introduction to chordal positions and scenarios that will allow you to create a richer, fuller sound as well as instant, or not, second guitar parts. We will discuss how to achieve this burst of creativity as well...and the best part of it: there will be plenty of jamming!
Chris Brenne has been a singer/ songwriter for almost as long as he can remember. He originally learned to play so he could sing protest songs. John Lennon was the inspiration, and pretty soon, music had taken over his life. Teaching guitar lessons from an early age, Chris decided to go all out and went to Berklee College of Music, an adventure for a boy from Sweden. Afterwards teaching came calling again, first as a Rock School teacher in Sweden, then back to America and various assignments in music store basements and evening adult classes, eventually at Cambridge Center for Adult Education. Over time, he developed new material and wrote books, mostly for guitar but with a nice dash of theory. In between teaching songwriting and theory classes, Chris has continued to have a healthy output of originally music, most recently a couple of finger style guitar musings that work for yoga. Chris has a recording studio and helps other musicians record their own music. With his experience, Chris could cover the whole process – teaching you to play, write songs and then record you doing what you love. www.chrisbrenne.com
Intro to Guitar Improvisation with Tavis Linsin
$110 nonmembers / $90 members
In this performance-based class you’ll learn to improvise by playing your instrument. You will draw on what you already know- the chords and songs you’ve learned, the technique you have and your imagination- to begin to improvise on the guitar. You will develop improvisational skills that will enable you to play with other musicians, create solos, play along with recorded music and leap over tall buildings with a single bound. By offering simple tools and presenting approaches shared by accomplished improvisers, this course will give you a head-start to finding your own improvisational voice. You will also develop practice strategies that will enable you to continue your learning beyond class.
Guitarists interested in all styles of music are welcome. Some ability on the guitar - a few chords, a song or two and maybe even a scale - is helpful. More advanced players who are new to improvisation are also welcome to attend.
HARMONICA * Beginning Harmonica with Lloyd Thayer
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here. Would you like to add another instrument to your repertoire, without carrying yet one more thing around? Well, have we got the instrument for you! Not only is a harmonica cheap, and fun to play, it easily fits in your pocket and can go anywhere with you. This class will start at the very beginning with basic techniques and move through a variety of styles, including straight harp and cross harp. We will explore the music of players like Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan, and Neil Young, and then move on to the blues styles of Sonny Boy Williamson, Little Walter, and Sonny Terry. No experience necessary; all levels are welcome. Students will need to provide a diatonic harmonica in the key of C. If you have questions about purchasing a harmonica, or the class, you can email the instructor at: .
Continuing Harmonica with Lloyd Thayer
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
This class will pick up where Beginning Harmonica left off, and we will work on developing technique and style. This class will explore the blues more deeply, and we’ll cover topics like chord rhythm, note bending, amplification, and playing with a band. We will also cover more subjective issues like note choice, tone color, and special effects. Students will need to bring ten hole diatonic harmonicas in the keys of C and A.
It is recommended that students have taken the Beginning Harmonica class, but it is not required, and exceptions can be made by the instructor for more experienced players. If you have questions about purchasing a harmonica, or the class, you can email the instructor at: .
MANDOLIN Beginning Bluegrass Mandolin with Jiro Kobuku
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
Jiro Kiboku, of the David Wax Museum, will teach a bluegrass mandolin class for beginners – no experience necessary. Jiro will start with the very basics, and you’ll learn how to hold a mandolin, how to hold a flatpick, and how to you’re your instrument. As you learn to pick and strum, you’ll learn some traditional fiddle tunes and variations for mandolin. Through these songs, Jiro will teach you the chords and scales. At the end of each class, he will give you exercises and tabs to practice each day.
Jiro, a phenomenal multi-instrumentalist from Osaka, Japan, found a home in the Japanese bluegrass community, and on his band’s first tour of America, he met his hero Bill Monroe. He later returned to the United States to study at Berklee College of Music, graduating in 2008. In The David Wax Museum, Jiro’s breath-taking dobro solos and spectacular mandolin ability make him a thrill to take in.
* Beginning Mandolin with Eric McDonald
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here.
In this course, we will start with the basics and give students a solid base of knowledge from which to build upon. We will cover basic technique, chord structures up the neck and improvisation. We will incorporate music theory, but do most of our work by ear. Using a group of simple fiddle tunes and songs, we will build a pallet of ideas that will hopefully inspire students to continue study on their own. We'll talk about practice techniques and learn how to produce good tone on the instrument. We'll work with scales and exercises to increase each student's fluidity on the mandolin quickly, which will allow us to take full advantage of our creativity. Be prepared to use your ears and musical brains, and expect to do some work. Students will be expected to practice for at least one hour per week.
Eric McDonald, a former Berklee College of Music student, plays mandolin and guitar for many touring bands and songwriters including The Dave Rowe Trio, Matching Orange and others. He has brought his music all over the United States and into Europe. In addition to teaching at Passim, you can find him instructing young musicians at New England fiddle camps during the summer.
MUSIC BUSINESS Music Biz 101: From Open Mic to Headliner with Ralph Jaccodine
$88 nonmembers / $72 members (4-week course)
Are you just starting out as a singer-songwriter? Are you starting to get gigs and looking for the next step? Do you want to take your act from open mic nights to headlining gigs? Ralph Jaccodine, the longtime manager of such artists as Ellis Paul, Antje Duvekot, Flynn, Bang Camaro and others, teaches this course on the fundamentals on carving out a career as a musician. He will cover topics such as how the money flows, what to do and what not to do with growing a career, how to get the gig, how to market your music, and other topics drawing from his 25+ years in the music business... www.RalphJaccodine.com.
DIY: Take Control of Your Music Career with Susan Scotti
$110 nonmembers / $90 members The music business is changing everyday, and now is the time to make things happen for yourself. Labels are not the ones discovering acts any longer, they are waiting for artist to do the ground work before they make a move. How does a band make a "buzz" during such competitive times? What are the booking and promotion tips artists need to get ahead? In this class you will learn the tips and tools that you need to help your career from industry professionals: Booking agents, Publicists, Managers, Record Label Representatives, Entertainment lawyers & more. Learn the ropes of the music business and get a better perspective and appreciation for the work the professionals do. This class is open to all stages of careers and not only to artists, but also those interested in a career in the music industry. Expect a couple hours of homework a week to keep you on your toes!
Course will be run by Susan Scotti, who is not only the publicist for Club Passim, but many successful bands as well. Susan is also on the nominating committee for the Boston Music Awards and the Board of Directors for The Arts at the Armory and has experience with the PR, booking and management of both bands and clubs.
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR GUITAR: A series with Yukon Stubblebine
$75 nonmembers / $70 members for the whole series. Basic Guitar Setup: Have fun when you play, not pain.
$25 nonmembers / $20 members You’re taking lessons and diligently practicing every day but it just doesn't seem to be getting any easier. Don't get discouraged. Your guitar is in a constant state of change and will fight you one way or another at least half of the time if it is not properly adjusted.
Guitar Triage for the Gigging Musician with Yukon Stubblebine
$35 nonmembers / $30 members You've all been there. You're sound-checking for an important gig and something's not right. Your guitar is down for the count. Don't be forced to use the back-up beater that's been sitting on top of the beer cooler for the last decade. Learn how to recognize what's happening with your axe and the quick fixes that will save the night.
So you want to buy that cool guitar on ebay? Here’s what you need to know, with Yukon Stubblebine.
$35 nonmembers / $30 members Color me guilty. I love those old Harmonys, Kays, and Silvertones that you see all over the internet and in every second hand store window. They do something that you just can't find in new guitars. So often they're just a complete wreck but can be ressurected with the a little determination and patience. Other times they look just beautiful - like they've never been played, yet perhaps there's a fatal reason lurking just beneath that beautiful sunburst surface. We'll discuss how to find the gems and avoid the heartbreaks.
MUSIC THEORY Beginning Music Theory with Tavis Linsin
$110 nonmembers / $90 members for 5-week course
This course is open to everyone with an interest in music and a curiosity about music theory. The class is about understanding patterns in music. Beethoven understood them, Jimi Hendrix understood them, Elvis understood them - shouldn't you?
In this class you will learn about some of the basic ‘building blocks’ of music. In the comfort of your own home you will be able to use those building blocks to better understand your instrument (if you have one), advance your writing (if you’d like to write songs) and develop a keener ear for the music you’ve been listening to your whole life.
This class has no prerequisites and all interested are encouraged to attend. It is a beginning-level course and those with prior music theory training should seek a more advanced class.
* Music Theory for the Singer-Songwriter with Chris Brenne
5 weeks - $110 nonmembers / $90 members Register here.
Writing your own songs is one of the most rewarding modes of expression. Sometimes, however, we don’t know what to write next. A great melody doesn’t fall into place, a super chorus can’t be matched by good verses or vice versa. This is when a firm understanding of music theory can be a very handy tool. This course will address that. We’ll lay the foundation by explaining scales, keys, chords, and how they all relate. We will analyze famous chord progressions - sing the songs, too, and find out what exactly made each of them tick. Most importantly, we’ll do all this in relation to your own song writing. Through assignments you will apply each new bit of knowledge to your own music. And if you’re a guitarist, then we shall discuss how it all relates to your fretboard.
Oh, and, we will also have loads of fun!
Chris Brenne has been a singer/ songwriter for almost as long as he can remember. He originally learned to play so he could sing protest songs. John Lennon was the inspiration, and pretty soon, music had taken over his life. Teaching guitar lessons from an early age, Chris decided to go all out and went to Berklee College of Music, an adventure for a boy from Sweden. Afterwards teaching came calling again, first as a Rock School teacher in Sweden , then back to America and various assignments in music store basements and evening adult classes, eventually at Cambridge Center for Adult Education. Over time, he developed new material and wrote books, mostly for guitar but with a nice dash of theory. In between teaching songwriting and theory classes, Chris has continued to have a healthy output of originally music, most recently a couple of finger style guitar musings that work for yoga. Chris has a recording studio and helps other musicians record their own music. With his experience, Chris could cover the whole process – teaching you to play, write songs and then record you doing what you love. www.chrisbrenne.com
SONGWRITING/PERFORMANCE * Songwriting 101 with Janet Feld
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here.
If you're not only drawn to listen to music but have also to play it, you're a songwriter; if you've never written a song before it's only because your songwriting "faucet" hasn't been opened yet. Opening your faucet is what this class is all about. Each week we will do specific, simple exercises that keep your pen moving and take the mystery out of writing songs. You'll also learn about basic song structure, creating melodies and simple music theory (the stuff you might feel like you'd have to study at a music school for hundreds of years to understand - thankfully, this is not so!). Please bring paper and a writing utensil.
"What a wonderfully creative experience! I have already written 2 songs, and I am feeling so much more confident that what I am writing is interesting. You are such a great teacher Janet. You always make something that can be vulnerable a very calming, comfortable and safe environment…most importantly….Fun! You have a true gift. Thank you for sharing it with me!" Jessica C.
Songwriting and Performing with David Champagne
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
This is a class for singer-songwriters of all levels who want to perform on stage. We will focus as a group on writing and polishing songs that will engage and captivate an audience. Sessions will be held on Tuesdays in conjunction with Passim’s Open Mic night. Members of the class will perform at the club and then head upstairs to the classroom for discussion, feedback and instruction. There will be songwriting assignments and creative exercises each week. Students will write new songs, as well as improve and complete old ones.
Class is limited to 5.
Songwriting Critique with David Champagne
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
The difference between a promising song and a memorable one is what happens after you have a couple of verses and a chorus. Does the intro draw the listener in? Is there drama and development? Do I need a bridge? Your songwriting questions are more readily answered by a group of engaged listeners than by your inner critic alone. This class will provide a supportive sounding board, giving you the feedback and suggestions you need to take your songs to the next level. The insights and techniques you'll acquire will permanently change your songwriting for the better.
Shooting from the Hip: How to Find an Honest Voice in Songwriting with Christopher Pappas
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
This class will focus on deconstructing and doing away with the traditional pretenses of songwriting to help students find a more direct line from the inside of them to their audience. We will be working on eliminating the traps and clichés that plague songwriters and block true expression in music.
Currently the front man/songwriter for the national indie band The Everyday Visuals (Improper Bostonian – Best Band 2008, Boston Music Award winner - "Pop act of the year" plus four more BMA nominations, FNX Best Music Poll Nominee), Christopher has been playing, touring, writing, and teaching music for 13+ years. He graduated Cum Laude from the Hartt School of music in 2003 with a BA in Music Education with a Vocal Emphasis. While there, he caught the eyes of many professors who took him on in private instruction in conducting, theory, and composition. He tours nationally and has shared the stage with artists such as Josh Ritter (Epic Records), Pierre De Reeder (Rilo Kiley), Margot and the Nuclear So & So's (Epic Records), Juliana Hatfield, Autumn Defense (from Wilco), The Watson Twins (Vanguard) and many more.
Songwriter's Challenge with David Champagne
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
The difference between a promising song and a memorable one is what happens after you have a couple of verses and a chorus. Does the intro draw the listener in? Is there drama and development? Do I need a bridge? Your songwriting questions are more readily answered by a group of engaged listeners than by your inner critic alone. This class will provide a supportive sounding board, giving you the feedback and suggestions you need to take your songs to a higher level. The insights and techniques you'll acquire will permanently change your songwriting for the better.
* Performance Techniques with Sean P. Rogan
$132 nonmembers / $108 members Register here.
Anxiety is one of the biggest obstacles to overcome when performing live. In this class, you will have the chance to perform in front of your peers and receive constructive criticism. Everyone will be a performer as well as an audience member. The class will be based around honesty and respect. Performing is a very physical act, in addition to being mental and emotional. Gain an awareness of your body, mind and song. Performances will include cover songs and/or original compositions. Bring your instrument and an open mind. You will become a more confident and relaxed performer, which allows your best music to come out.
This class is open to anyone who can perform at least 3 songs start to finish. All styles, instruments and levels welcome!
Sean P. Rogan plays guitar AND sings at the same time. Rogan, a resident of Rhode Island, received “Best Singer Songwriter” in the 2009 Providence Phoenix, was a semi-finalist in the 2009 WBRU Rock Hunt and plays locally as well as touring nationally and internationally. He received his degree in Music Education from Berklee College of Music. Sean has spent the last 14 years writing and recording records and touring the world as a founding member of Boston’s Big D and the Kids Table. With a built in fan base for his solo project, Sean continues to write, record and tour with Big D as well as on his own. When asked how to describe his music, Rogan said, “It’s good for campfires or coffee shops, to fall asleep or make out to.” Sean’s musical inspirations include Jack Johnson, The Beatles, Nada Surf, Coldplay, Bob Marley, the Flaming Lips and Huey Lewis.
UKULELE
* Beginning Ukulele with Tim Mann
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
On sale soon.
With the ukulele revival in full swing, take advantage of a sure fire way to beat the winter blues. Tim Mann teaches beginning ukulele in a fun and relaxed style, and whether you have never played before, or have picked up a uke and strummed a few chords, you'll learn the basic elements of simple uke playing in no time, and before you know it, you'll be the hit at the next party. Tim will demonstrate basic chords, strumming patterns and introduce you to some of your favorite songs adapted for the ukulele.
Tim Mann has been teaching ukulele since 2005, and has had students ranging in age from 5 to 75. As a founding memeber of 'Ukulele Noir', and current member of the Greg Hawkes Ukulele Trio, Tim has performed throughout the New England area, recently opening for Ukulele wizard Jake Shimabukuro.
Beginning Ukulele with Greg Hawkes
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
Are you tempted by the sweet sound of the ukulele? Learn to play with Greg Hawkes.
Strum your way to fun! The ukulele is becoming more popular than ever and it's fun to play!
If you've recently acquired a ukulele and would like to learn to play, or if you already know a few chords and would like to expand your technique and repetoire, then this is the class for you. We'll start by learning some basic chords and strums, then start playing some songs. Each week we'll learn new songs and chords. The only requirement is a ukulele and a desire to have fun!
Greg Hawkes is the famed keyboardist and co-founder of The Cars (1977-1987), who helped define the sounds of the 80’s with his signature keyboard style heard on The Cars’ “Let’s Go” and “Just What I Needed,” as well as his arpeggiated and syncopated synth lines on “Shake it Up” and “Heartbeat City.” Since his days with the Cars, he released "The Beatles Uke," an album of his favorite Beatles tunes on ukulele. greghawkesmusic.com
Intermediate Ukulele with Greg Hawkes
$132 nonmembers / $108 members
A continuation of the Beginning Ukulele course from September-October. If you know basic chords and can play songs, this class is for you. Greg will teach more advanced chords and new songs each week. Please bring a ukulele and be ready to have fun! Continuing Ukulele with Tim Mann $132 nonmembers / $108 members If you've ever thought about playing the ukulele, now is the perfect time. With the ukulele revival in full swing, this little Hawaiian instrument is hotter than a 50s hula hoop. Tim Mann continues his ukulele class with this intermediate course. Going beyond the basics, Tim begins to introduce a greater understanding of the uke with a deeper array of chords and chord shapes, as well as some different rhythms and strumming patterns. The first beginner class of 2010 filled up in no time, so sign up today and be the first on the beach this summer with ukulele in hand. Aloha!
Tim Mann, a founding member of 'Ukulele Noir', has been teaching ukulele for over 5 years, and is also currently a member of The Greg Hawkes Ukulele Trio.
VOICE Private Voice Lessons with Lauren Flaherty Join Lauren for 6 weeks of private lessons to get your voice in good shape. If you sing a little bit, but you would like to learn new techniques and learn a healthier, more effective way to sing, these lessons are perfect for you. Lauren will help you develop and strengthen your voice while helping you build confidence in your singing. Since this is a private lesson, you will be able to focus on songs and aspects of singing that interest you. This opportunity is appropriate for beginners (including shower singers!) to experienced singers who are looking for more structured practice.
* Private Voice Lessons with Maria McNeil
$165 nonmembers / $150 members
To register, select a time slot from the Class Calendar.
Join Maria for 6 weeks of private lessons to get your voice in good shape. If you sing a little bit, but you would like to learn new techniques and learn a healthier, more effective way to sing, these lessons are perfect for you. Maria will help you develop and strengthen your voice while helping you build confidence in your singing. Since this is a private lesson, you will be able to focus on songs and aspects of singing that interest you. This opportunity is appropriate for beginners (including shower singers!) to experienced singers who are looking for more structured practice.
Maria McNeil is a Berklee College of Music graduate with a professional music degree. Her studies concentrated in vocal performance and songwriting. She currently sings as a background vocalist for a local artist. She sings mostly jazz, r&b and pop music. McNeil has performed in Chicago, Boston, New York City and has worked with recording artists in the Nashville area.
