Forum Activity for @bing-futch

Bing Futch
@bing-futch
10/28/23 04:56:15PM
4 posts

Expedition Dulcimer - Roundhouse Lodge - July 25 - 28, 2024


Single-Instructor workshops, band & house concerts, Club activities, monthly Jams

Come explore new frontiers on the mountain dulcimer in the northern end of the Appalachian mountain range with Expedition Dulcimer: Roundhouse Lodge, July 25th - 28th, 2024

This is the second retreat in a series announced earlier this year, and the goal is to do five of these per year in different regions of the United States.  Each Expedition will be hosted in a different location in the northeast, southeast, central plains, northwest, and southwest. During four days of immersive learning, each group of intermediate and advanced students (limited to 15 per retreat) will enjoy workshops, meals, and accommodations at breathtaking private estates, former inns, residences, and lodges across the United States. Beautiful, serene settings for focused learning and ample meditative downtime to reflect, practice, or simply relax.

The curriculum is rooted in my 17 years of teaching experience and encompasses skill-defining exercises, repertoire-building, and improvisational study. I take a dynamic approach to each session, tailoring it based on student feedback to address areas that need attention, reinforcing strengths, and presenting challenges in effective chapters.

While the core structure of study remains consistent for each retreat, the selected songs and styles draw inspiration from the lore and traditions of the surrounding region. Likewise, the meals we prepare and present are influenced by the rich culinary cultures of the locals. The schedule allows plenty of time to immerse ourselves in the dulcimer, take time for self-reflection, explore the sights, and even catch a rejuvenating nap.  

Our second announced retreat for next year is Expedition Dulcimer: Roundhouse Lodge, July 25th - 28th, 2024 , which will find us n estled in the scenic region of Forest City, in northeastern Pennsylvania, at the corner of Susquehanna, Lackawanna, and Wayne counties, in the northern Appalachian mountains. Roundhouse Lodge, our home for four days, sits on 41 acres of private property, providing panoramic views of the picturesque countryside. The lodge offers oversized living areas, a double-sided stone fireplace, a rejuvenating hot tub, a foosball table, and a spacious kitchen where I'll prepare meals inspired by the culinary traditions of the region.  

For details on this newly-added retreat, and also about the previously announced Expedition Dulcimer: Stone Mountain Manor - March 28th - 31st, 2024 , visit ExpeditionDulcimer.com

Let me know if you have any questions that aren't covered by the FAQ, and I'll be sure to add them.  Jae and I are very excited about this new venture, and we're looking forward to bringing the experience westward soon!

Thank you for your time - blessings of music,

Bing


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Bing Futch
@bing-futch
08/08/23 02:51:25PM
4 posts

Expedition Dulcimer - Stone Mountain Manor - Easter 2024


Single-Instructor workshops, band & house concerts, Club activities, monthly Jams

Experience the magic of Expedition Dulcimer: Stone Mountain Manor - Stone Mountain, Georgia - March 28th to 31st, 2024

Are you an intermediate or advanced dulcimer player looking to take your skills to new heights? Join  Expedition Dulcimer , an extraordinary music education workshop series led by  Bing Futch . Explore enchanting venues across the United States.    Engage in tailor-made masterclasses to refine your abilities through technical exercises, repertoire-building, and improvisation techniques. Delight in on-site accommodations and delectable meals prepared by Bing himself, leaving ample free time to unwind in picturesque surroundings. Embrace the unique themes of each location, integrating local culture, natural beauty, and historical significance. This captivating experience begins with  Expedition Dulcimer: Stone Mountain Manor !

Discover Stone Mountain, Georgia

Nestled in DeKalb County, Georgia, Stone Mountain is a charming city with a population of 6,703. Named after the geological formation it lies near, Stone Mountain has a rich history dating back to Native American tribes. It once thrived as a major travel center and later became famous for its granite quarrying industry, providing stones for iconic structures. Today, the city offers a blend of arts, culture, and leisure activities, with its historic downtown frequently used as a filming location for movies and TV shows. Stone Mountain is a place where heritage meets modern charm, making it an ideal location for  Expedition Dulcimer.

Our home for four days is  Stone Mountain Manor , an eight-room boutique bed and breakfast that promises to recharge and indulge. The Manor offers a large open floor plan, allowing guests to relax in the dining room, sun porch, and sitting area upstairs. Enjoy the stunning sunset on the grand front porch or sip wine in the outdoor gazebo.    The pool is a fine reflective meditation space, and there are plenty of hideaways for the purpose of relaxation.

Pricing and Booking Information

Registration pricing is all-inclusive (you pay only travel.)  All lodging, meals, and workshops are included in the price.  Bing will coordinate with guests on dietary needs and restrictions.

• Per Person: $1399 (with a $699 deposit)

With spouse (sharing a room): Add $400


• Share a room with a participant: $999 (with a $499 deposit)


Deposits are non-refundable but can be rolled over to future events.  Balance is due by November 30th, 2023.  


Expedition Dulcimer: Stone Mountain Manor  promises to be an invigorating, relaxing, and uniquely educational experience.  Not only will you elevate your dulcimer skills, but you'll also immerse yourself in the charm and history of Stone Mountain.

This journey will refresh your spirit, energize your mind, and empower your musicality. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the premiere event for this series of workshop retreats created especially for this community of music lovers.  Create cherished memories, set new personal goals, and embrace the joy of playing the dulcimer in beautiful locales. Secure your place now, as space is limited to 15 registrants, and join us for this captivating and unforgettable musical adventure!

www.ExpeditionDulcimer.com  


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Bing Futch
@bing-futch
04/09/21 11:08:41AM
4 posts

How is the COVID-19 coronavirus affecting you?


OFF TOPIC discussions

Susie:

My favorite festival cancelled early in the year...the Evart Funfest. Going to miss another year. Hoping for a big celebratory year in 2022. Hope you'll be there again. This is from 2019.

I remember our meeting well!  If FunFest is a go next year, I'm planning to be there, fingers crossed.

Bing Futch
@bing-futch
04/09/21 08:34:29AM
4 posts

How is the COVID-19 coronavirus affecting you?


OFF TOPIC discussions

Jae and I both got the J&J jab Monday and have only had a wee bit of fatigue plus the sore arm.  Will be interesting to see when a booster will be advised, though many in-person festivals have already scrapped spring/summer scheduling.