Workshops
Over the festival weekend, there are seven workshop slots with a choice of 57 workshops covering the wide breadth of folk music. A description of each workshop is available, as well as the overall schedule.
Workshops for Instrumentalists
Most of the workshops are for all instruments playing together, and are categorized by skill level -- beginner, advanced beginner, intermediate, and advanced -- so that you can pick ones that are appropriate for you. There are also workshops for specific instruments, but please don't think that just because your instrument isn't listed, the weekend isn't for you. There's plenty to do with mixed-instrument workshops and jams.
Workshops for Singers and Dancers
Each workshop time-slot has at least one choice for singers, and we have several dance workshops as well.
Special Track for Beginners
Back by popular demand is the beginners' track. Absolute beginners are welcome. There will be a variety of instruments (dulcimer, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, banjo) for you to try.
Concerts
Staff members perform for you on Friday and Saturday evenings. Concert admission is included in the festival fee. Additional tickets will be available at the door for each concert.
Jam Sessions
There's nothing like a jam session for learning new tunes and sharing the joy of making music. Plenty of jamming (led by professional staff) is offered throughout the weekend, both during workshop slots and after the evening concerts.
Contradance with Open Band
Saturday night after the staff concert, we'll hold a contradance, with caller Bob Nicholson. All are welcome to dance, (even if you've never tried it before), and all instrumentalists are welcome to play in an open band. Sheet music will be provided. We'll have a rehearsal during one of the workshop time-slots, but it's fine to play with the band even if you skip the rehearsal.
Park Activities
There are numerous activities available at Greenwood Furnace State Park, such as swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, enjoying nature and viewing historic exhibits. The 483 acre park is nestled in the mountains and was the site of a 19th century ironmaking community. The park include some remnants of the old ironmaking furnaces and the blacksmith shop is filled with exhibits on the park's ironmaking history.
Professional Development for Teachers
Act 48 credit is available for Pennsylvania school teachers.
Hangin' Out
If all of these activities aren't enough for you, there's always plenty of just plain hanging out with like-minded musicians and sharing some tunes.
The 2011 Greenwood Furnace Folk Gathering group photo, celebrating 8-years of great music, great fellowship, and great learning.