This event combines
two complimentary Folk Arts from opposite ends of the world. The one, being the playing of traditional American folk music on the dulcimer,
an instrument and music developed in the mountains of Southern Appalachia. And the other performing ancient relaxation and rejuvenation exercises, Many of witch were developed in the Wudang Mountains in Hubei Province in China. Both the music and the exercises were traditionally passed down from one generation to the next, in person with little written text. Another similarity is that both traditions make excellent use of names derived from nature, animals and daily life. Appalchian song and tune titles include: Sheep Shell Corn By the Rattling of His Horn, Rattlesnake Bit the Baby, Waterbound, Rabbit in the Pea Patch, Clucking Hen, etc. Exercise names include: Wave Hands Like Clouds, Snake Creeps Down,
Stand like a tree, Embrace the Moon, Fair Lady Weaving at Shuttles, Golden Cock Stands on One Leg, etc.
By applying the mental and physical sensbilities and focus of the exercises to daily life and specifically to the playing of the dulcimer, one can develop a relaxed and effortless flow of movement.
Reducing stress in life and in playing music is a step by step process. We all proceed at our own pace. Hopefully what we share at these Retreats will be helpful as a reminder that playing music can be an enjoyable means to personal growth.
__________________________________________
Don Pedi has been playing the dulcimer since 1968. He's
been practicing T'ai Chi Ch'uan and related healing
and meditation arts since 1971.
Most of Don's music was learned face to face from authentic
traditional sources, both past and present.
The same is true of his healing arts.
A gifted player and teacher, Don shares his knowledge in a relaxed, friendly, and non-competitive manner, creating an atmosphere conducive to everyone learning at their own pace. The simple and effective T'ai Chi and related exercises help to reduce stress and improve balance.
No
experience is necessary to enjoy the gentle,
Tai Chi related exercises for relaxation and rejuvenation.
All levels of dulcimer players are welcome.
Learn to combine the benefits from the exercises with
innovative playing techniques to explore the depths
of playing traditional mountain music on the dulcimer.
The Way of the Dulcimer Retreat Schedule
Saturday
Saturday is information, knowledge and hands on practice day.
10:00 - 10:15
Orientation
We will discuss the benefits of T'ai Chi related exercises
and relaxation techniques to the understanding and
playing of music with it's roots in the agrarian cultures
of our ancestors.
10:15 - 10:45
T'ai Chi Warmups
Gentle Tai Chi related exercise to aid in relaxation and developing focus.
10:45 - 11: 30
History of the Dulcimer
A brief lecture/demonstration on the History of the Dulcimer.
Antique, vintage, and modern dulcimers will be utilized to showcase the development of the dulcimer and explore the similarities and differences in the music played on them from the 19th century through the Folk Revival.
11:40 - 1:00 PM
Strumming and Noting
Combine techniques developed by Don, for Free-Style Strumming and Natural Noting. Methods to develop relaxation and economy of motion while playing dulcimer.
1:00 - 2:00
Dinner Break
The Zoom meeting will remain open during the dinner break.
We'll run a video
and or have time to chat.
2:00 - 3:30
Tunings
A guided tour through a number of tunings unique to the dulcimer.
How and why to use different traditional tunings to change keys and
attain the proper scale and mood for a given song or tune.
3:30 - 4:00
Five Elements Chi Kung
Gentle breathing exercises to move energy through all the energy channels of the body.
4:15 - 5:00
Concert
Don will perform a concert featuring songs and tunes
that will be taught on Sunday. In the concert the music will be presented at the apprpriate speed for each peice. In the classes the songs and tunes will be slowed down to accomodate the skill levels of those present. Becoming familiar with music ahead of time makes it easier to learn.
5:00 - 6:00
Online Old-Time Jam
After a day of learning, it will be fun to just play some music.
Don will lead the jam. Play along at home. Requests welcome.
Sunday
10:00 - 10:30
T'ai Chi Warmups
Repeat and expansion of exercises from Saturay's session.
10:30 - 11:45
Old-Time Songs from the Mountains
Songs from simpler times. Clever relics from America's past.
12:00 PM - 1:15
Fiddle Tunes for Dulcimer
Old-Time Tunes from authentic sources. Rare and beautiful tunes as well as versions of more familiar tunes unique to a specific region or fiddler.
1:15 - 2:00
Dinner Break
The Zoom meeting will remain open during the dinner break.
We'll run a video
and or have time to chat.
2:00 - 3:15
Music from Across the Pond
Songs and Tunes from Ireland, Scotland, and England.
3:30 - 4:45
Ballads
Story Songs from the mountains.
Arranged for dulcimer.
5:00 - 6:00 ?
Open Mic , Jam, and Farewell
Share a song or tune.
Or request a favorite
|
|
2012 Retreat - exercises and relaxation techniques.
The classes are scheduled to create a cumulative effect, allowing one to leave with a working understanding of the topics presented. Most people find these retreats fun, as well as a source of inspiration and rejuvenation.
One leaves with a wealth of dulcimer playing techniques, songs and tunes.
Hand outs of most of the Taoist rejuvenation exercises as well as Tab & MP3 files of the music help one continue to practice into the future.
Online RETREAT
Two Full days of classes
and concerts
$180
Pay through PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, Discover,
American Express.
|
|
