R&R CAJUN ACADEMY FOR KIDS
Where kids learn to play, sing and perform traditional Cajun music from friendly, patient and gifted teaching & playing professionals.
We are really looking forward to this year's academy.
Please read thru the notes below to learn more.
Online registration opens right here on June 1st.
Mary Burdette, Program Coordinator
e-mail me with any questions you may have
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
R&R Cajun Academy for Kids is a fun music instruction program held during Rhythm & Roots Festival for young students from 8-17 years of age.
Kids learn to play, sing and perform traditional Cajun music. Classes are offered in traditional Cajun fiddle, guitar and accordion, bass and mandolin.
The academy is directed by renowned fiddle teacher, Michelle Kaminsky, and the teachers include Michelle Kaminsky, Chris Ash, and Andy Stewart (fiddle); Alan Bradbury (accordion); Martin Grosswendt, Maggie Moniz and Mary Jo Slattery (guitar); Michael Pattavina (mandolin) and Mark Wholley (upright bass). Administrative assistance is in the capable hands of Karen McGrath.
The program culminates in a Workshop Stage performance this year for an enthusiastic crowd of parents and festival fans on Sunday afternoon as "Les Jeunes Cajuns" (the students and their instructors) play and sing tunes they have learned during the weekend.
COST:
Rhythm & Roots Festival is committed to keeping traditional Cajun music alive and well in New England. Participation in the Cajun Academy for Kids is free. Admission to the festival is free for kids 12 and under. Students 13 years and older who are also attending the festival will need to purchase a ticket.
LOCAL CHILDREN MAY PARTICIPATE:
Local children whose families are not attending the festival are invited to participate in the Cajun Academy for Kids. Classes are held in the Ninigret Park Picnic Pavilion outside the ticket gate. All parents (local and festival patrons) should plan to stay at the picnic pavilion while the academy is in session, so bring a book and your coffee or tea!
BASIC REQUIREMENTS:
- The academy is open to students 8 to 17 years of age.
- Students should be able to participate all three days, including Sunday's concert.
- Students of all playing levels are welcome and will be divided into classes according to their playing ability and comfort level.
- Beginning fiddle and accordion students should, at a minimum, be able to play a D or A scale or be able to play a simple song such as 'Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.'
- Guitar and mandolin students should know chords D, E, A and G and be able to change from chord to chord.
- Students must bring their own instruments. However we will have a few accordions for kids to try if they are interested. Please let us us know if you'd like to borrow an accordion.
- If you have a tuner, please bring it.
- Also bring a cool hat for Sunday's performance!
DAILY SCHEDULE:
All classes / rehearsals meet in the Ninigret Park Picnic Pavilion, located between the camping area and concert area ticket gate. Sunday's performance will be in the Dance Pavilion.
- Friday, September 2 (Picnic Pavilion) (please note the time change!)
- 5:00-6:00 pm: Orientation. Meet the teachers. Run through the tunes.
Bring your instrument! You'll be playing the first night!
- Saturday, September 3 (Picnic Pavilion)
- 10:00-Noon: Sectional, Vocal and Ensemble Instruction
- Sunday, September 4 (various locations)
- 10:00-Noon: Sectional, Vocal and Ensemble Instruction (Picnic Pavilion)
- 3:00 pm: "Graduation Gig"on the big stage in the Workshop Stage right after Magnolia's set. Be backstage please at 2:30. Better yet, come at 2:00 and enjoy Magnolia's performance.
- 3:30 pm: Certificates and Class Photo (right behind the Workshop Stage).
Cancellations:
If you need to cancel for any reason, please call or email us so that others may have a chance to participate. Contact Mary Burdette at 603-677-2178 or email.
On Line Registration: June 1 thru September 1.
Please register as early as you can so that we know you're coming.
Click on the button at the top of this page to register your child.
Parents please note:
- Please plan to stay while classes are in session. Bring your coffee, a book, camera, blanket or chair. Relax, watch, listen and enjoy!
- We are staffed to teach only. If your child needs a trip to the restroom, etc., please attend to his or her needs. Also bring any special items that your child may require. Thank you.
QUESTIONS:
For further information, call Mary Burdette at 603-677-2178 or Michelle Kaminsky at 401-246-2720.
