Concertinas have been welcomed as a part of the Palestine festival since 2005. The concertina is a Victorian-era instrument that had a large global following in the middle and late nineteenth century – especially in America, Ireland, England, Australia, and South Africa – and has seen a great resurgence in interest in folk and traditional music circles in the past few decades. Our past concertina headliners have included Jody Kruskal, Bertram Levi, Dave Roberts, and Ann Kirrane. We concertina players have always been grateful to Jerry and to Margaret for allowing us to be part of the Old Pal fun, even though concertinas – a true old-time instrument – are not the stuff of classic American string bands!
In the spirit of Old Pal, this year our concertina participants will make themselves available for impromptu and/or scheduled workshops on a variety of topics. This year’s lineup of volunteer workshop leaders includes:
Gary Coover, who has published a huge number of books of and for concertina musicians and is a well-known player in the English harmonic style.
Dan Worrall, author of several volumes on the history of the concertina, as well as works on the life and music of (and how to play in the fashion of) Irish concertina player Chris Droney and English Morris music player William Kimber.
Jarrett Branch was a co-author in both the Chris Droney and William Kimber projects. Both Dan and Jarrett play mostly in the old-time Irish style.
Between these three, there will be beginner’s workshops, sessions on playing in the English harmonic style, and old-style Irish concertina playing. Plus, tune sessions in which others will be encouraged to bring their tunes and expertise to bear!
On Thursday afternoon, well before the evening concert, we concertina players usually get together for socializing and an early dinner at the Pint and Barrel pub, at 5pm. Friday lunch at Shep’s BBQ is an old tradition for this group, as well.
There is no extra fee for the concertina workshops; just pay the normal festival gate fee upon entering. Gary will have copies of the above-mentioned concertina books for sale at a festival reduced price.
We look forward to seeing you!
