Online Masterclass Series
I am currently developing a new series of in-depth video lessons covering all aspects of how to play Scottish and Irish music in an authentic manner. Please check back later this Spring for news on the release date of this series.
More than just teaching how the tune goes, I delve fully into bowing patterns, rhythmic nuances, bagpipe-style ornamentation, and historical backstory. Lessons include demonstrations at slow, medium, and fast tempi with closeups on the fingerwork. Printable handouts will accompany each lesson. These include the sheet music with chords, slurs, bowings, etc along with stylistic pointers and historical references. You may view the lesson as many times as you wish within one month after purchase.
After the purchase of any 4 lessons, participants are entitled to a free 30-minute private lesson with
me via Skype or Facetime to hone your skills and ask questions.
$25 per lesson
Part 1 Your First Celtic Tunes
Jamie will teach a jig, reel, hornpipe, and strathspey at a relaxed tempo while explaining the stylistic nuances one should strive for in order to make your playing sound authentic. Recommended for fiddlers and other melody players (whistle, cello, mandolin, flute). All abilities welcome (basic skills are suggested).
Register for Part 1 - coming soon!
Part 2 Ornamentation Rudiments
Jamie will break down the essential mechanics of how to play authentic ornaments in an Irish reel and a Scottish bagpipe jig. The two tunes covered are Rakish Paddy and The Jig of Slurs. Recommended for fiddlers and other melody players. All abilities welcome (moderate skills are recommended).
Register for Part 2 - coming soon!
Part 3 Ornamentation Deep Dive
Jamie will delve into more intricate ornamentation for both Irish (Co. Claire) and Scottish bagpipe (Highland) style. The three tunes covered are Fox Hunter's Reel, The Ranger (slip jig), and Susan McLeod's (strathspey). Recommended for fiddlers and other melody players. All abilities welcome (moderate to advanced skills are suggested).
Register for Part 3 - coming soon!
Part 4 Rhythmic Drive and Lift
Back-beat, jig accents, and slurring patterns (bowings) that produce a compelling groove. All abilities welcome.
Register for Part 4 - coming soon!
Part 5 Technique Building Through Celtic Tunes
Jamie will start by teaching three Irish and Scottish tunes with tips on how to learn new tunes quickly. Then, using these tunes as a platform, Jamie will go on to explain how to develop good intonation (pitch), beautiful tone, and how to increase tempo and fluency, while analyzing the mechanics of pain-free, ergonomic positions.
Part 5 - coming soon!
Part 6 Backup Instruments (guitar, piano, cello, bouzouki)
Celtic tunes can triumph or fail by what the backup player is playing. Jamie will demonstrate appropriate strum patterns, bass lines, chord choices, and countermelodies for several tunes on guitar, then switch to fiddle and play the melodies multiple times through so that participants may practice along. Guitar players are encouraged to try tuning in DADGAD. Chord shapes will be explained and a chord chart will be provided. Other instruments will find the concepts relevant. For guitar, cello, mandolin, bouzouki, piano, and other chord players). Basic skills in forming chord shapes recommended.
Register for Part 6 - coming soon!
Part 7 Hornpipes and Polkas
Jamie will teach one horpipe (four parts) and one polka, with an emphasis on staccato style, back beat, and choosing the right tempo.
Register for Part 7 - coming soon!