The Annual Winter Retreat is coming up on Saturday, January 20th. This event is free and open to all music lovers. We'll have a variety of instrument workshops, plus lots of jamming. Whether you have been playing old-time music your whole life, or just got an instrument for Christmas, this event is for you!
As I sit here listening to Christmas music with a cup of tea in hand, I'm thinking back on the past year of fun with GPDA. We've done a lot, folks! It seems appropriate to reminisce about a few of my favorite moments – I hope you'll join me and share some of your own stories. The year started with the Winter Retreat. The food and fellowship we shared can't be beat! Lots of new members and guests, our first attempt at an "instructional jam," and workshops in a closet! The Spring Fundraiser was another lovely gathering. The dulcimer orchestra is always a highlight for me. Connie Renberger composed a really lovely arrangement of "Shenendoah" for us this year, and it came together beautifully. I
If you have participated in any of our recent playdates, you will no doubt have that tune floating through your head. That's not such bad thing. It is a good tune. It is a happy tune. Personally, it puts a smile on my face! I like all the verses. I was surprised to discover that there is some disagreement as regards the verses. Google the lyrics and you will see what I mean. The one I like the best is the one that mentions taking one's girl for a sleigh ride. Admittedly, it all sounds good until that "upsot" part but life is like that. Oh well. The closest thing that Denny and I have ever come to a sleigh ride was a horse drawn carriage ride in Bardstown, Kentucky at Kentucky Music Week in t
