2008 Information

The Mandolin Symposium returns for a 5th year for six days of exciting and challenging mandolin experiences. The purpose of the Mandolin Symposium is to expose students of the mandolin at every level to the diversity of music and technique that has developed over the past few hundred years throughout the world and here in America.

The week begins on Monday afternoon with registration and continues into the evening at Town Hall, where you will meet many of our 2008 instructors and guests. They will share with you their plans for the week and tell you about their classes. It is here that you will make some important decisions about your course of study during the week. We urge you to experience all of our instructors.

The 2008 instructors are led by David Grisman and Mike Marshall.

Other Instructors include:

  • Danilo Brito (Contemporary Brazilan - all week)
  • Ashley Broder (Celtic - Monday through Thursday)
  • Rich DelGrosso (Blues - all week)
  • Paul Glasse (Swing and Jazz - all week)
  • Caterina Lichtenberg (Classical - all week)
  • Dudu Maia (Contemporary Brazilan - all week)
  • Herschel Sizemore (Bluegrass - all week)
  • Andy Statman (Contemporary Jazz/World)
  • Tony Williamson (Bluegrass/Vintage Expert - all week)
  • Ronnie McCoury (Bluegrass)
  • Debora Chen (Classical Session)
  • Steve Gilchrist (Builders Track)

Daily Sessions

Our program this year will consist of four main daily sessions and some new things as well:

  • Music Appreciation: Each Morning we will explore different aspects of mandolin music by listening to (and viewing) historic performances that our faculty has selected. Learning to listen and being exposed to great music is one of the most valuable lessons any musician can learn. Our instructors will host these sessions.

  • Electives-1: Daily elective classes will explore different aspects of mandolin technique, through the unique approach of each of our instructors. Each class will be open to all, though some will be designated Beginners, and others Advanced.

  • Electives-2: There will be a 2nd elective class every day during our 1:30 time slot that will give students opportunities to practice learned skills in repertoire sessions or participate in specialized small groups.

  • Rehearsal: We will also create ensembles for you to practice in on a daily basis. Our instructors will coach these ensembles and they will be based upon different styles of Mandolin Music. These ensembles will rehearse pieces that will be performed sometime during the week. A single piece will be learned by all students and performed at the Saturday night concert by the staff and students of the Symposium. This is your opportunity to put all your latest skills to work by playing together.

    • Evening Sessions

    Every Evening students will attend a special performance/workshop after which organized jams will commence around 10pm.

    Some of the organized jam sessions that may be taking place in the evenings are:

    1. Slow Jam: basic tunes played at slow tempos for folks with limited jamming experience.
    2. Classical Session: This is designed for musicians who already know how to read music and are looking for like-minded folks with which to read simple chamber music.
    3. Bluegrass jam: Medium level
    4. Swing jam: Charts will be provided
    5. Choro jam: Charts will be provided

      6. We believe that we have provided a well-rounded program for all styles, levels and interests. If you have any questions or concerns during the week, please talk to our administrative staff, as we are always available to help you out. Enjoy your week with us.