Adv BG Fiddle-Waitlist
Demystifying Bluegrass Fiddle: Finding Your Sound & Strength
Bluegrass fiddle can feel incredibly difficult, fast, and daunting, but this class will break it down into logical, creative, and fun steps.
We won't try to define bluegrass fiddle, but we’ll explore the sounds of key players—from traditional greats like Kenny Baker to modern masters like Michael Cleveland—helping to merge your original voice through informed playing and creative improvisation techniques.
We’ll dive into movable double stops, chord progressions, and the essential (but often overlooked) art of backup playing. We will also look at how to structure practice for continuous growth beyond camp. Expect a mix of repertoire, improvisation techniques, and class discussions.
Bring a recording device, a notebook, as this class with be taught mostly by ear. Most importantly—bring your questions!
Patrick M’Gonigle
Patrick M’Gonigle grew up playing the fiddle in British Columbia before moving to Boston in 2009. Today he lives in Nashville, TN. He was a founding member of Rounder Records recording band, the Lonely Heartstring Band, from 2012 until 2020. In 2019, he produced Bella White’s debut album and has toured internationally with her since 2021. Patrick tours and records with the Eli West Trio, Jordan Tice, John Reischman and many others.
In addition to the fiddle, Patrick plays mandolin, sings, produces, writes songs, and recently completed a doctoral degree in music from Boston’s New England Conservatory.
