Bass
Photo by George Martin
Bass level 1—In bass level one we'll learn basic technique and exercises to build strength and stamina. We'll discuss the number system in an effort to demystify the instrument and build confidence for would-be jammers. The emphasis will be on simple lines, tone and timing, and by the end of the week we'll all be able to play standard bluegrass songs with ease, or at least have a good time trying.
Prerequisites: None! Well almost. You'll need a bass, two hands and a desire to hold down the low end. It's also essential that participants be prepared to have a good time.
Travis Book's love affair with bass instruments started with the trombone, traveled through the bass guitar and settled on the upright bass. In 2005 he moved to Nashville, TN to pursue music and bass full time, and as a member of the Infamous Stringdusters he's toured extensively, playing more than 140 shows a year.
This year marks his third year as a Rockygrass Academy instructor and he's taught at the Wintergrass Academy as well as countless workshops and private lessons. We’re happy to have him join us for his first year at the CBA Music Camp.
www.thestringdusters.com
Bass, levels 2/3—This class is geared toward the novice to upper-intermediate bass player searching for a versatile approach to playing bluegrass. These days bluegrass is more than traditional Bill Monroe and Flatt and Scruggs, but a vast acoustic platform that draws influence from many other genres. We will focus on bluegrass bass playing, as well as explore some of the boundaries of bluegrass. You will learn the role of the bass player in various musical contexts, and how to achieve the right "feel" for the song and situation. Concepts such as walking bass, leading tones, swing vs. straight time, slap, and soloing will become more comfortable after this class. Students will come away with a better understanding of technique, methods for improving your timing, and the tools to compose tasteful bass lines.
Prerequisites: You should be comfortable playing with other people, and comfortable playing the bass for extended periods of time. You should know how to play in most keys, and be comfortable enough with the fingerboard to find most notes. Familiarity with the number system is preferred. Bring a bass that is playable and won't fatigue your hands to the point where you can't play for a solid hour. If you need a loaner bass, contact our local bass guru Steve Swan (www.steveswanguitars.com, thanks Steve!). Also bring a good attitude and desire to learn!
Dan Booth has played upright bass for nearly 18 years, and has taught for six years. Born and raised in Alaska to a musical family (see dobro instructor Greg Booth), the music gene has carried Dan to stages across the United States, Canada and Ireland performing with Ginger Boatwright, Bearfoot, the legendary Ralph Stanley, and Laurie Lewis. Currently residing in Oakland, he is now a member of the Kathy Kallick Band, 49 Special, and Homespun Rowdy.
As a teacher, Dan is known for his personal and practical approach, getting you playing and improving right from the beginning. He is a veteran of the Alaska Folk Arts camp, Cordova Music and Dance camp, and Bearfoot's Bluegrass Camps for Kids. In California he has taught in the SFBOT festival workshops, and teaches privately at the 5th String in Berkeley. We’re glad to have him join us for his first year at the CBA Music Camp.
http://kathykallick.com/KKB/pages/kkb.html
