Bluegrass Jam Camp

The Bluegrass Jam Class (Wernick Method) is lead by Martin Gilmore and is based on methods developed by Pete Wernick ("Dr. Banjo"). This class is open to all bluegrass instruments. No jamming experience is necessary. You will be jamming the first session!

Wernick Method Classes teach real bluegrass jamming!

• Hands-on learning in large and small groups
• Learn many bluegrass standards
• Gentle tempos! Mistakes expected
• Full ground rules and etiquette of typical jams
• How to lead songs and how to follow new songs
• How to find melodies, fake solos, sing harmony
• Ear skills taught and emphasized as in real bluegrass
• Tab/note reading skills not needed or used
• Group and individualized instruction on backup skills
• Intermediates welcome, and given added challenges
• Understanding, low-pressure, time-tested teaching!

Prerequisites: It’s easier than you may think! If you play guitar, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, bass, or dobro… you can be part of a bluegrass jam. Only requirements: You must be able to tune your instrument (electronic tuning devices welcome) and change smoothly between G, C, D, and A. (Fiddles and basses need to know which notes work with which chords.) Fast playing is not expected, nor is the ability to solo required. 

Registration Info: A $50 deposit reserves your spot. The remaining balance will be charged to your card on file on the start date of class (09/12/26). Alternatively, you may pay in full at the time of registration.

Cancellation Policy: Fully refundable if registration is canceled more than one week in advance. 

Lunch: This camp meets Saturday 9/12 and Sunday 9/13 from 9am - 5pm at Swallow Hill. There will be a break for lunch each day. You're welcome to bring a packed lunch (we have some limited refrigerator space) or go to a restaurant nearby. Some restaurants in walking distance we like are:

El Tejado - Mexican

Colore - Italian

The Post - Fried Chicken/Comfort Food

Masala and Curry - Indian

Help us get in tune by registering early!
To support our teachers and better accommodate the needs of our classes, we ask that students register at least 48 hours in advance of the class, lesson, and/or workshop.

Martin Gilmore

GUITAR, MANDOLIN, SONGWRITING

Colorado | influenced by bluegrass and folk | singer-songwriter | host of the Front Row podcast at Swallow Hill | lived in Egypt | founding member of Long Road Home | member of The Semaphores

Martin is a bluegrass musician, multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, and music educator based in Denver, Colorado. He is a founding member of the bluegrass band Long Road Home, an acclaimed solo performer, and band leader for The Martin Gilmore Trio.

He has performed all over the United States, as well as in Europe and Africa. He is also a highly respected music educator, teaching at the University of Denver Enrichment Program, his own private studio, and right here at Swallow Hill Music. In 2017, he joined the faculty at the University of Northern Colorado teaching folk and bluegrass guitar.