Workshops

accordion

Accordion Workshop • Accordions are used in many styles of music globally, but if you are interested in Louisiana-Creole-Zydeco-style accordion, you don’t want to miss this workshop. Bring your accordions and your questions! Taught by guest artist Corey Ledet. Sun, Feb 2, 1:00–2:15, PSB 109

banjo

Banjo Support Group with Al Levy • The Banjo Support Group is a judgment-free zone. Banjo players of all levels (from Wannabe to Super Picker) are welcome. Come and share your hopes, dreams, frustrations, and disappointments as a banjo player. There will be an opportunity to ask questions and get a variety of answers and perspectives. We will probably do a little pickin’ as well. Sat, Feb 1, 11:30–12:45, PSB 109

First Steps on the 5-String Banjo! with Abi Sparkman • Feeling lost or frustrated getting things rolling on the five-string banjo? This course will walk you through right and left hand technique for getting started on the banjo. We will cover string names, tuning, finger picks, two basic rolls, fretting, and you’ll even learn your first bluegrass song! This course is geared towards beginners but even intermediate banjo players may find something new in the class. There will also be a Q&A for all your burning bluegrass questions. Bring your own banjo if you have one…BUT you can attend the class even if you don’t have an instrument yet. Sun, Feb 2, 1:00–2:15, PSB 210C

Old-Time Banjo, with Kevin Cassity • It’s all about attitude. Sat, Jan 25, 11:30–12:45, PSB 210C

The Annual Banjo Contest! • Sign up outside PSB 110 at 2:30 pm. Contest starts at 3. Sat, Feb 1, 2:30–5:00, PSB 110

bass

Bluegrass Bass, taught by guest artist Sean Newman. • From walks to rhythms, bring your bass and be ready to learn! Sun, Jan 26, 1:00–2:15, PSB 109

dance

Cajun Dance Workshop with Doug Stephens and Barbara Rowland and Bayou Glacée • Discover the Joy of Cajun dancing! Step into the vibrant world of Cajun dance and let the infectious rhythms transport you to the heart of Louisiana! Our beginner-friendly Cajun Dance lesson is designed to introduce you to the spirited two-step and simple waltz that define this beloved tradition. You’ll learn the basics in a fun, welcoming environment with plenty of opportunities to practice your moves. No prior dance experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm and get ready to let the good times roll! Please wear comfortable dance shoes—clean, not too grippy—and your smiles. Sun, Jan 26, 9:45–11:00, Main Stage

Irish Ceili Dancing with Lisa Maloney and Red Cap and the Banter Boys • Come try your hand at Irish folk dancing! Don’t worry, you won’t be step dancing: ceili dancing is a lot like contra dancing. All ages welcome, but toddlers need to be carried and young children should bring an adult to help guide them through the steps. Sat, Jan 25, 10:30–11:45, PSB 110

Irish Step Dancing with Lisa Maloney and Red Cap and the Banter Boys • Come try Irish set dancing, which bears some similarities to square dancing. You’ll learn the general structure of set dances, a vocabulary of basic moves, and put everything together in a simple dance. While families are very welcome, this is best for older kids and adults; young children must be carried by an adult. No partner or experience required, but we do need at least four people (ideally eight) to practice the dances. Sun, Jan 26, 11:30–12:45, Main Stage

Swing Dance Workshop with Katie Cueva and Hot Club of Nunaka • Learn the basics of swing dancing to the live music of Hot Club of Nunaka. All dancers welcome, no experience needed. Sun, Feb 2, 10:30–11:45, Main Stage

Youth Contra Dance (All Ages—2 to 122 welcome!) • Anybody can learn how to do-si-do! Bring your dancing shoes and be prepared for a good time. This workshop is especially geared for kids and teens, but all are welcome! Sun, Jan 26, 11:15–12:15, Main Stage

Zydeco Dance Workshop with Doug Stephens and Barbara Rowland and Weasel Gras • Groove to the Rhythms of Zydeco! Dive into the dynamic scene of Zydeco with our engaging beginner’s workshop! Zydeco combines elements of rhythm and blues with traditional Creole music to create an irresistible dance experience. Our instructors will guide you through the basics of the unique Zydeco dance. Perfect for newcomers, this workshop will have you grooving to the beat in no time—no experience required! Please wear comfortable, clean, smooth-soled shoes and be ready to enjoy yourself! Sat, Feb 1, 10:30–11:45, Main Stage

drawing

A Drawing Jam and Art Discussion • Join the 2025 Anchorage Folk Festival poster artist, Lee Post, for a laid-back drawing jam and art discussion. Lee Post will bring art supplies and some loooooooong paper. We’ll make a collaborative drawing where we all draw together to create a giant-sized version of this year’s poster. While we’re having fun and making art, Lee will answer all your questions about this year’s Folk Festival poster, digital art, comics, how to get started drawing, and any other art questions you may have. The is great for all skill-levels, from stick-figure artists to aspiring illustrators, as well as being appropriate for youth, teens, families, and adults. For a sneak peak, see his illustrations and classes at https://Postmarks.Graphics. Sat, Jan 25, 4:00–5:15, PSB 110

Learn to Draw Comics with Lee Post • Join the 2025 Anchorage Folk Festival poster artist, Lee Post, for a special music-themed drawing session. Sketch and play some drawing games in a fast-paced, no-stress, and fun cartooning session. We’ll draw some simple faces, make some characters and turn them into fun comics. The class is great for all skill levels, from stick-figure artists to aspiring illustrators, as well as being appropriate for youth, teens, families, and adults. Find out more about what happens during his classes at https://PostMarks.graphics/education. Sat, Jan 25, 11:30–12:45, PSB 109

fiddle

Bluegrass Fiddle, with guest artists Jan Purat and Sullivan Tuttle • Here’s your chance to learn some chops from the experts! Sun, Jan 26, 1:00–2:15, PSB 210C

Fiddle with Eric Rodgers • Rosin up your bow for an inspiring skill- and tune-filled session. Sat, Feb 1, 4:00–5:15, PSB 219

Learn a Fiddle Tune or Two with Mary Schallert • How to play, even when you don’t know the song. Sat, Jan 25, 1:00–2:15, PSB 110

guitar

Acoustic Fingerstyle Guitar with John Cook • An introduction to guitar finger picking. Playing rhythm guitar without a pick in percussive style. Use of “drop D” tuning and introducing harmonics will be included in a hands on learn it to take home and practice approach. Some familiarity with basic chords is helpful. Sat, Jan 25, 4:00–5:15, PSB 210C

Alternate Tunings for Guitar with Suzy Crosby • Make new and magical-sounding chord variations come from your old guitar with the twist of a tuning peg and a few new finger positions. Sun, Jan 26, 4:00–5:15, PSB 210C

Blues and Jazz Guitar 101 with Joe Craig • Review a few basic concepts for guitar and then swap blues and jazz licks as found in songs and chord progressions. Sun, Feb 2, 4:00–5:15, PSB 110

Enhancing Guitar Combining Classical, Rock, and Country Riffs with Scott Helle • Learn how to use your guitar as your band. Implement various styles of classical, flamenco, rock, and country using various finger patterns and picking styles to develop coordination and control. These are intermediate techniques but can be useful for beginners to understand how various patterns, rhythms, and techniques are learned. Sat, Feb 1, 4:00–5:15, PSB 210C

Introduction to Fingerstyle Folk Guitar with Stephen Hendricks • This is an introduction to fingerstyle guitar playing. It is for beginning and intermediate guitar players. For beginners who would like to begin learning this skill and for intermediate players who might need a review or additional tips to improve their playing. Sun, Feb 2, 10:00–11:15, PSB 110

Introduction to Slide Guitar with Stephen Hendricks • This is an introduction to slide guitar playing. It is for beginning and intermediate slide guitar players. For beginners who would like to begin learning this skill and for intermediate players who might need a review or additional tips to improve their playing. Sun, Feb 2, 11:30–12:45, PSB 110

Travis Fingerstyle Guitar with Tim Samuelson • Learn basis and basics of Travis picking to play like Chet Atkins, Tommy Emmanuel, Paul Simon, and James Taylor, just to name a few. Knowledge of open and barre chords needed to play along, or no experience needed just to learn. Broken into two sessions that build on each other. Sun, Jan 26, 11:30–12:45 (Part 1) and 2:30–3:45 (Part 2), PSB 109

health

Music and Vision: What’s the Connection? • Dr. Laura Sifferman of Katmai Eye and Vision Center will be discussing the role music plays in improving one’s vision. In turn, vision can influence the musician’s performance. She will present vision tips to help the musician maximize their potential and performance. Sun, Feb 2, 10:00–11:15, PSB 210C

instrument maintenance

Instrument Setup and Maintenance with Marty Severin • How to keep your tools running at their best, focusing on setup & action, as well as long-term maintenance. Focus will be on stringed instruments. Sat, Feb 1, 11:30–12:45, PSB 110

Learn to Restring: Ukulele, Baritone, Guitar and Mandolin with Elisa Long • Why pay someone to change your strings? With all the money you save, you could buy a new instrument! Learn on our fun and easy jigs. Sat, Jan 25, 11:30–12:45, and Sun, Feb 2, 1:00–2:15, PSB 219

jams

Acoustic Jam Session • terry re.e.d will be hosting an open jam for musicians. Be prepared to name a song and start playing and singing. We will try to catch up as quickly as possible. We will be having a song circle, and it will pass to the next person after each song. Fun, fun, fun! Sat, Jan 25, 2:30–3:45, PSB 110

Chugiak–Eagle River Senior Center Monday Jam • We love to get together every Monday Night at 6–8pm at the Chugiak–Eagle River Senior Center to play music together. Everyone is welcome to join and have fun with us. Bring an instrument or just come and sing. We know you will have fun. Small group of people who love to play and sing. Sun, Jan 26, 1:00, Main Stage

Show Up and Jam • Bring your instrument and have some impromptu fun with whoever shows up! Sat, Feb 1, 2:30–3:45, PSB 219

mandolin

Don’t Fret the Small Stuff: Mapping the Mandolin with Brett Jokela • Exploring the mandolin fretboard: patterns and voicings to expand your mandolin mind! Sat, Jan 25, 1:00–2:15, PSB 210C

Swing Mandolin • The workshop will cover some swing ideas as they can be applied to the mandolin. We’ll investigate concepts borrowing heavily from Tiny Moore, Jethro Burns, and Django Reinhardt. Derek Christianson will describe how you can apply these concepts to a multitude of songs. Sun, Feb 2, 2:30–3:45, PSB 210C

music theory

Zen of Music Theory I & II with Jerry George • Music theory simplified in a way that is intuitive and useable on the fly at jams. When you understand the structure of music scales, chords, and progressions fall into place without any memorization. Sun, Jan 26, 4:00–5:15, PSB 110, and Sun, Feb 2, 4:00–5:15, PSB 109

musician support

Accounting and Taxes for Musicians with Marty Severin • Basic bookkeeping and accounting for your music activities, including the general basics of taxes as they apply to musicians. Sun, Jan 26, 4:00–5:15, PSB 109

Polishing Your Performance • Whether a soloist, group, or whole band…come join our interactive session to help improve stage presence and performance—fun, supportive, and always positive! Robin Hopper and Marianne See again offer this popular session to strengthen performances of our local talented artists. Bring instruments! Sat, Jan 25, 11:30–12:45, PSB 110

Techniques for Performance: Your Stage Sound and Microphone Questions ANSWERED! with Lucy Peckham and Crew • Sat, Jan 25, 9:00–10:15, and Sat, Feb 1, 9:00–10:15, Main Stage

songwriting

Breaking Out of Beginner Songwriting with Lou Nathanson • You’ve written a few songs, or you’re thinking of writing a song, or maybe you just have a concept of a plan to write a song. So how do you polish that initial effort to get it ready for Nashville or Tin Pan Alley…or the Anchorage Folk Festival? Sun, Feb 2, 4:00–5:15, PSB 210C

Crafting an Honest Song with Sadie Gustafson-Zook • We will create narrative songs based off of our own life experiences. Parlor in the Round guest artist Sadie Gustafson-Zook will guide us through a process that uses free-writing exercises to hone in on a pivotal moment in our life and organize our feelings, thoughts, and observations around that memory into the shape of a song. This workshop requires participants to arrive with an open mind and curiosity about their own life story. Please bring a way to write (paper, pencil, phone, tablet, computer…whatever works best for you!) Sun, Jan 26, 2:30–3:45, PSB 219

Songwriting–Creating Lyrics That Hit Home • The best ideas for songwriting are all around you. We will explore a method for creating memorable lyrics from what you hear. Just come ready to listen, write, and share. Robin Hopper will provide everything you need. Sat, Jan 25, 2:30–5:15, PSB 219

ukulele

Learn to Play the Ukulele with Wendy Luft • This introduction class will take you from nothing to playing songs. That’s right: you will be able to play songs before class is over. Come have some fun and see why more people are learning to play this fun instrument. Sat, Jan 25, 10:00–11:15, PSB 219

Ukulele Strumming Patterns with Elisa Long • Go beyond the basic down-up strum. Let’s add some rhythm and give your music a dash of style and pizzazz! Sun, Jan 26, 1:00–2:15, PSB 219

Ukulele Support Group with Al Levy • The Ukulele Support Group is a judgment-free zone. Players of all levels (from Wannabe to Super) are welcome. Come and share your hopes, dreams, frustrations and disappointments as a ukulele player. There will be an opportunity to ask questions and get a variety of answers and perspectives. We will probably play some tunes as well. Sun, Feb 2, 11:30–12:45, PSB 109

voice

Bluegrass Harmonies, taught by guest artists AJ Lee and Scott Gates • How do those sweet harmonies work? Try some on for size. Sun, Jan 26, 1:00–2:15, PSB 110

Sacred Harp Singing with Bob Hume • Sacred Harp singing is an American traditional style of four-part a cappella, religious, community-based, shape-note singing. The music is powerful, moving, ancient, intense and haunting. It is sung with exuberance. It is not “pretty” music. Some have described it as “a cappella heavy metal.” Everyone is welcome to join us in song without regard to religion or belief. No experience is necessary. Rudimentary knowledge of music structure is helpful but not essential. Sat, Jan 25, 1:00–2:15 PM, PSB 109

Rounds: Silly to Sweet, Singing and Playing • Rounds are a fun way to create four-part harmonies with only one melody. Shonti Elder will have words and music to share. The music is for fiddle, but all instruments are welcome. Kids are welcome too, with parents. Sat, Feb 1, 1:00–2:15, PSB 110

youth

Alaska City Folk Arts Rehearsal & Jam • All are welcome to join us as we prepare for our main-stage set. Sun, Jan 26, 9:45–11:00, PSB 110

Alaskan Children’s Songs and Making Music with Nikki Scherer • Come and learn some silly songs about Alaska, make an instrument, and make music. Sat, Jan 25, 10:00–11:00, PSB 109

Learn a Fiddle Tune or Two with Mary Schallert • How to play, even when you don’t know the song. Sat, Jan 25, 1:00–2:15, PSB 110

Learn to Draw Comics with Lee Post • Join the 2025 Anchorage Folk Festival poster artist, Lee Post, for a special music-themed drawing session. Sketch and play some drawing games in a fast-paced, no-stress, and fun cartooning session. We’ll draw some simple faces, make some characters and turn them into fun comics. The class is great for all skill levels, from stick-figure artists to aspiring illustrators, as well as being appropriate for youth, teens, families, and adults. Find out more about what happens during his classes at https://PostMarks.graphics/education. Sat, Jan 25, 11:30–12:45, PSB 109

Learn to Play the Ukulele with Wendy Luft • This introduction class will take you from nothing to playing songs. That’s right: you will be able to play songs before class is over. Come have some fun and see why more people are learning to play this fun instrument. Sat, Jan 25, 10:00–11:15, PSB 219

Music and Movement for Families with Young Children (birth to 5 years) with Music Together Mountain Song • Did you know that all children are born musical? Join us as we build on your child’s innate musical aptitude through play! Help your child discover their inner music-maker (and rediscover yours as well) with 45 minutes of singing, dancing, wiggling, and jamming as a community. You’ll learn how music supports overall early childhood development and leave with new ways to incorporate music into your family’s daily life. Sun, Feb 2, 10:00–11:15, PSB 109

Youth Contra Dance (All Ages—2 to 122 welcome!) • Anybody can learn how to dosido! Bring your dancing shoes and be prepared for a good time. This workshop is especially geared for kids and teens, but all are welcome! Sun, Jan 26, 11:15–12:15, Main Stage

Zydeco

Louisiana Creole Zydeco History and Culture • In this workshop, you’ll learn about the various peoples that arrived in or were brought to Louisiana and how they came together to form the wonderful melting pot of music and language and food that is Louisiana. No instruments are needed for this class. Taught by guest artist Corey Ledet. Sun, Feb 2, 2:30–3:45, PSB 219

Rhythm with Zydeco Washboard • Taught by guest artist James Adams. People used these to wash clothes originally but then turned them into percussion instruments! Come and learn to play the Zydeco washboard. Bring your washboard…and if you don’t have one, there will be a few to try! This is a rare opportunity to learn a new instrument. Sun, Feb 2, 1:00–2:15, PSB 110

Zydeco and Blues Jam • Bring your instruments and join the Jam! Learn a new tune or two, and leave with a smiling soul! Sun, Feb 2, 2:30–3:45, PSB 110

Zydeco Dance Workshop with Weasel Gras • Groove to the Rhythms of Zydeco! Dive into the dynamic scene of Zydeco with our engaging beginner’s workshop! Our instructors will guide you through the basics of the unique Zydeco dance. Perfect for newcomers, this workshop will have you grooving to the beat in no time—no experience required! Please wear comfortable, clean, smooth-soled shoes and be ready to enjoy yourself! Sat, Feb 1, 10:30–11:45, Main Stage