What is the Great Groove Band?
The Great Groove Band makes fiddle and folk music accessible to young people who sing or play a (mostly) stringed instrument. The 2008 bands included fiddlers, guitarists, bass players, drummers, pianists, flutists and more. At Old Songs in 2008, fiddler and stepdancer April Verch taught a tune and a simple stepdance combination. Since 1999, the Great Groove Band has provided an opportunity for school-age players (ages 6-18) attending the festivals with their parents or friends. They use their playing skills and learn about fiddle and folk music. Founded and directed by Amherst, Massachusetts fiddler, performer and educator Donna Hébert, bands average 30-35 participants a year at each festival. Eager participants join the band for the weekend, rehearsing intensively for three days before a main-stage performance on Sunday. These festivals rely on our great volunteer staff who skillfully shepherd the group, tuning instruments and helping kids get organized. 2010 volunteers include Judy
Related Questions
- This sounds great, but I’m a little burned out from high school band – I’ve done it for four years! How is the CMB different from high school band?
- My teen is not a great student and good organizer of time. How will they balance homework & marching band in the fall?
- Does the band often take a great word and decide to make a song around it?
