A few DFNW questions

BillyBob

I've never been, so I'd like to know.

1. I want to learn more about soloing, I've been through Gypsy Picking, and my theory is very limited. Which of the clinics would be best for me?

2. Where does everyone camp/hotel? I'd like to be exposed to as many Djamming opportunities as humanly possible.

3. How are the facilities?

Thanks.

gadjogreg

you might check out the workshops by denis or gonzalo

pmg

Djangofest NW is a djammers paradise! During the day, most jamming occurs in the outdoor seating areas at local coffee houses in Langley. The coffee house owners are very cool and often provide free coffee drinks and pastries to the players. After the evening shows, the area's hottest jams take place at the bar across from WICA (the town's main concert venue). Amateurs mix with the pros in the evening and playing continues into the wee hours.

Circle jams are most common with players each taking a chorus or two (or not depending on their comfort level). A good variety of instrumentalists participate including violins, mandolins, bass, clarinet, etc. etc. Players range from OK to outstanding -- and there is always a friendly and appreciative audience nearby. A round of applause after a jam is not unusual.

Your fingers will likely wear out before you run out of places to play. Best to practice a lot in advance to build your callouses up and to learn as many swing tunes as possible. Upbeat tunes are most popular and it is OK to bring cheat sheets like the Nolan gig book if you need them (although the jammers who play from memory/by ear get the most respect).

Nothing like it -- prepare to have a blast!

BillyBob

Where do they usually run the workshops?

pmg

WICA in Langley is the location of the workshops.

JohnVB

Sometimes the workshops take place at other venues around town, all within easy strolling distance of each other. I went to one at the Children's Theatre, and another at a hall of some kind.

Weather can sometimes inhibit outdoor jamming, but Useless Bay Coffee Co. had a shelter built last year.

I've had a great time the two times I've been to DFNW.

BillyBob

Can I drop in on the workshops or should I pay in advance? How does that work?

I'm looking at the Giniaux and Bergara sessions.

Adelaarvaren

You can reserve a spot by calling WICA ticket box office.

There's a link from the DFNW page.

-B

djangology

Can I drop in on the workshops or should I pay in advance? How does that work?

I doubt anyone would turn you away if you walked up to the door but getting a ticket in advance is the polite thing to do.

gadjogreg

you need to have a tix to get in to the workshops, they check for tix.
get your tix in advance to assure a seat. they do turn non tix holders away.

djangology

Ooops you are right. Don't show up to a workshop without a ticket!