Kaufman Acoustic Kamp

[Chris "Bucket" Thomas]

I am contemplating attending Kaufman’s Acoustic Kamp in June.

I have been playing/taking lessons for about a year and a half-average ability etc.

Have you been?

Was it worth the time (7 days)?

Was it worth the money ($700)?

What did you learn/leave with?

Thanks,

Chris

[Clyde Clevenger]

I went to the first Flatpicking Kamp in '96 and the first mandolin Kamp in '98. I learned a lot from both and had a great time. Mike Compton became my hero, I followed him around all week. You've been playing long enough to know there is no magic. At the flatpicking Kamp Norman Blake did a workshop on Saturday, mostly just playing, but he did answer some questions. A young fellow asked Norman about a problem with timing and developing speed, seemed to think is should come quicker. Norman said slowly and deliberately, "Well, son, how much time are you spending behind the box?" That's where the magic is.

[Rob Wallace]

Chris:

I attended the Flatpick Kamp last year and am returning to the Mandolin Kamp this year. The Kamp is extremely well organized, the instructors are both enthusiastic and very approachable and you will be totally immersed in music from sun up to the wee hours of the morning. I wouldn't go with the expectation of coming back with any great improvements, but you'll come back inspired to take your playing to the next level. The instructors were both enthusiastic and approachable, there are jams going on everywhere and the evening concerts are amazing. Food and lodging...dorms and school food, but you're there for the music and won't spend much of you time in the dorm or cafeteria. Overall, I found it to be a great, inspiring week and well worth the time and money.

Rob