Hi folks-
I've been away from home working, monitoring these subjects (and ignoring
some people in the process - that's the way it goes!). So, about the idea
of a gathering in the Northeast...
First of all, location. Personally, Melissa, I think that Maine is a fine
choice, but I have long come to terms with the fact that while one must
surely be *almost* completely mad to choose to live here, it would be
actually completely mad to expect a bunch of hurdy-gurdy players to come
for a day, or weekend. I think that Boston is a good choice, since it's
somewhat centrally located (although there is that pesky ocean just to the
right, there) - there are enough players within a few hours of there to
support that choice. There are friends of the hurdy-gurdy there who are
willing to open up their homes, and schedules, to visiting players and
teachers.
In the past, I have had a hand in organizing official teaching workshops,
for novice level players, with RT Taylor as the teacher - these were very
successful and I think they filled a real need. Most who attended those
workshops have moved beyond that level, but now it seems as if there is a
new crop of novice hurdy-gurdy players in the area who could benefit from
some of RT's *exceptional* instruction. Informal gatherings are great, but
they're usually made up of a great variety of skill levels and are not
always the best places for beginners to learn basic skills.
So while I encourage informal gatherings anytime and anywhere, it seems
like another proper basic skills workshop in our area might be called for.
Perhaps a two-day event would be possible: one day for beginners, another
for more advanced players. It is something I would be happy to organize,
and even teach, but I would rather organize it around RT's schedule and
bring him here. I can think of no better person for the job, and if we can
arrange a time when enough players are available, and promise plenty of
chocolate, I'm sure we could convince him to come, perhaps this fall, and
spend time with all of us (I know... he can hear me). If anyone is
interested, in any of the above possibilities, please let me know, *off
list* (no need to burden the whole list with everyone's details of
scheduling or workshop study preferences), and we'll get organizing!
On a related note, I keep a mailing list of about 15 or so contacts in the
northeast, which I send to occasionally (two or three times a year) to
notify people of hurdy-gurdy - related events. This is not intended to be
exclusionary - there are some who wish to be kept informed about events who
do not subscribe to this email list. I have also used it to distribute
information and workshop materials for RT's past visits. If anyone wishes
me to add their name to that list, please let me know; again, *off list*.
~ Matt
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Matthew Szostak - Hurdy-Gurdies
7 Grove Street
Camden, Maine 04843
phone: 207-236-9576
email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
website: http://www.midcoast.com/~beechhil/vielle
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