Accompaniment in traditional Music – workshop with Mark Neal

Open to all chord players (e.g. Guitar, mandolin, piano, bouzouki, harp, accordion etc) who are intermediate level and above, and have a good grasp of basic chords. The workshop will look into keys, chords and structure in traditional music, techniques and theory for expanding your chord selection and rhythms for different types of tunes and songs.

This workshop will be lead by renowned guitarist and singer-songwriter Mark Neal “hailed as one of the most notable guitarists on the traditional music scene” (Ross-shire Journal.) Mark has been working as a professional musician for over 20 years, performing, recording and teaching. He has recorded with various artists but recently released his first solo album ‘Cool Waters.’

This workshop is open to all melody players who are intermediate level and up (fiddle/violin, accordion, mandolin, clàrsach etc) If you would like to find out if your instrument would suit please get in touch by email. In this workshop you will learn some traditional Scottish tunes and gain confidence at picking up tunes by ear. You will also have the chance to learn a few useful phrases in Scottish Gaelic. Sheet music for the tunes will be provided.

The workshop will take place at Helensburgh Baptist Church Hall on Sunday 22nd September, 2pm – 4pm..

• Book your place by emailing [email protected] Cost – Pay as you can on the day of the workshop. All ages welcome – under 16s must bring a guardian.

Accessibility – the workshop will take place on the ground floor, there is a ramp into the building (no stairs) and the venue has a disabled toilet. If you need any assistance or further information please get in touch by email.

This workshop has been made possible by support from the Maoin nan Ealan Gàidhlig fund.
Mòran taing gu Alba Chruthachail, Bòrd na Gàidhlig agus Fèisean nan Gàidheal. Taing gu Eaglais Bhaisteach Baile Eilidh cuideachd // Huge thanks to Creative Scotland, Bòrd na Gàidhlig and Fèisean nan Gàidheal for making running this workshop possible, and also to Helensburgh Baptist Church for kindly providing the venue.

This is running in association with the Helensburgh trad music session which happens on the first Monday of the month in the cafe bar at the Commodore Hotel, Helensburgh 7-9pm. All welcome (including under 18s) to join in or listen.