Print this pageDelFest Academy
 "My goals for the mandolin class were completely satisfied and I came away from the Academy with both new skills and a greater confidence in myself and what I can achieve in music." -Mike Ward, 2009 Academy student |
We're pleased to once again offer DelFest Academy prior to the festival - May 24 through May 27. The academy consists of a friendly, encouraging, and intensive three-day learning experience with a group of some of the finest musicians in bluegrass.
The Academy will offer instruction for guitar, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, and bass for all experience levels. We are excited to have the same great group of instructor back for our second year: Ronnie McCoury on mandolin, Rob McCoury on banjo, Jason Carter on fiddle, Alan Bartram on bass, and Ronnie Bowman on guitar.
Here's a rundown of what you can expect during your DelFest Academy experience -
Monday - Check-in begins at 4pm on Monday, May 24th. Set up camp and in the evening we will have a meet and greet with dinner provided for all the students, paid guests and teachers.
Tuesday thru Thursday - Beginning on Tuesday morning, students will receive instruction targeted to their individual needs, with plenty of opportunity for one-on-one interaction with their instructors. The overall direction of each class will ultimately be determined by the students' goals and needs. Typically, you'll start the mornings in a small group with your instructor, and afternoon sessions may vary with instrument groups getting together. We like to end each day with Bluegrass Karaoke - a highlight from last year! Basically the students sign up to play a song with all the instructors as your backing band...you are the star!
 "I have been playing guitar for a while but I came home with new tools to the trade that Ronnie taught me." -Sutton Yamanashi, 2009 Academy student |
On Thursday afternoon, your Academy wristband will be exchanged for a festival wristband. That evening we will have an Academy wrap-up/festival kick-off party with food and drink provided for students and paid guests.
Also, it probably goes without saying, that dark to sun up each evening is spent in the campgrounds jamming with fellow students.
A very limited number of spots are available for the 2010 DelFest Academy. Each Academy ticket includes an Adult 4-day pass for DelFest. If you are planning to attend the Academy with a family member or friend who does not wish to attend the classes, a limited number of guest passes are also available. Guest passes allow your guest to camp with you on the DelFest site and enjoy any extracurricular events in addition to attending DelFest. Students can also upgrade their DelFest Academy registration to enjoy all the DELuxe Experience amenities offered during the festival. Get your tickets today!
Questions about DelFest Academy? Academy staff can be reached at delfestacademy AT aol DOT com.
