Beginner at camp or workshop?

[Kent Black]

Can a beginner benefit from going to a camp or workshop? I would not be able to spend the night but drive back and forth because of family commitment. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Kent

[August Watters]

Depends on the design. Write to the organizer and ask that question!

If you're talking about Cape Cod Mandolin Camp, the answer is yes -- there's a beginner's track, and faculty dedicated just to beginners.

[Got8Strings]

Should a beginner go to a place where dozens of experienced players will be? Absolutely!

Even if there isn't a formal beginner's track, you would learn a ton just from hanging around and learning from everybody else. It is hard to imagine where you could possibly learn as much from so many in such a short amount of time as at a camp or workshop. By all means... GO! You will not be disappointed.

[HuffDaddy]

Unless they specifically say "No Beginners," I would go 100% of the time. Worst case scenario the play over your head and you end up hanging out listening to some fine mandolin playing. Best case scenario you learn a whole lot and have a blast.

Its a win/win in my opinion.

[Kent Black]

Thanks for the help, it is the Kaufman Kamp so there is a beginner section. My thoughts were to watch and listen and enjoy. I guess now I'll ask the wife!

Thanks,
Kent

[Philphool]

Kent,

Come on to the Kaufman Kamp. I'll be there, so it's pretty certain that you won't be the worst player! I've only been playing mando for 11 months and I'm counting on learning a lot. AND having a great time for a week!
I'm too far away to commute, so I'll be staying in the dorm and probably be staying up way too late every night.
Life's too short not to jump in with both feet when you get the chance to have fun. (Assuming it's sorta legal and not harmful to others )

Come on; we'll have fun!!

Phil

[fiddle5]

I think anyone can benifit from a music camp, regardless of ability, but what I would add: is that a beginner with a bit of practical background and abiltiy to find thier way around the fingerboard would get more out of it than someone who is at ground zero. It would be an expensive way to learn: this is an open string... this is where your first finger goes...this is a scale....

[John Bertotti]

I went to a classical class once. Everyone was way ahead of me. I just did what I could and when I couldn't I just sat back and listened. A great time and no one minded at all. Of course once I was out of it I stopped some people just keep right on going and mucking it u for everyone. Know your limits push them but go.

[Kent Black]

Ok Phil I'll be there but I will be in the beginner class. I haven't touched my mando in about a year because of family illness. I will be traveling back home or staying with family in knoxville so I will miss out on some late night stuff. Hope to see you there and I'll show you just how bad someone can play.

Thanks everyone for all the advice!
Kent