This is some of people have said

The concerts were awesome as always, with the Kruger brothers set my highlight of the week. I also really enjoyed Mike Kaufman's theory lesson - I was dreading it but he really made it interesting. I would like to thank everyone for looking after my son Julian so well, particularly Cindy who did a great job with him in her 101 class, &Donna for taking such personal interest in his progress. He loved Kamp &really wants to return - I just have to work on his mother now.... Looking forward to June 2010! Guy Hill

I found that certain of the instructors were "better" teachers then others. That they were able to pass on to us those topics that had chosen to talk about. This is, however, my subjective view. I sat with people at supper after a class that I found to be lacking in "instruction" and those people couldn't stop talking about how good the class was. I would like to say that Robin Bullock, in my opinion, is an excellent teacher. His class was structured, he had a goal of what he wanted to achieve in the class time, and he talked as a musician instructing other musicians. . He worked with us on learning fiddle tunes by ear: gave us some theory of the structure of the tunes, had us work out a tune in class, section by section, and talked about the difference between the basic melody and the embellishments. He also talked about the annunciation of the tune during the playing. Don Stiernberg gave a good class with topics taken from the class. Music theory and chord structure explained very clearly. Working in class on what was taught. John Reischman's class was good with a section of incorporating double stops into our playing. Andy Owens presented us with right hand exercises (from Niles Hollanen) in the handbook and working on them in class. S6_future_instructors_list_8B

My primary expectations for coming to Kamp were to have: real instruction on different aspects of playing, Individual instruction for the purposes of improving my technique, Playing time with people in jams. All of those expectations were met. S1_Recommend_to_friend_ADDRESS_13B

What made my experience exceptional? The master class with Don Stiernberg was one thing. Five minutes of his observing my playing and making suggestions on improving my technique. The Fiddle Tune Jam with Tony Anthonisen was another. Tony did a really good job at leading the jam. Not too fast or slow. Before Kamp, I had worked on many of the tunes that were played there so I was able to take the break. This was my intermediate jam session which I needed to attend (The medium jam was at the same time as the vocal class that I attended). I really enjoyed the open mic that preceded the concerts. It was great seeing fellow kampers (and really talented people) perform. The vocal class with Cindy Grey was another. I now have an understanding of harmony. For the final class scramble, I went to hear a different instructor. Eric Thompson gave a lesson on the modes and now I have understanding about old time songs and the modes that are used. YOSSI

In the section about about what made my kamp experience exceptional I would like to add the friendliness of the people. I made many new friends and had great conversations at my table in the dining room during meals. Everyone was very encouraging during the jams also. When people asked me if I'll be attending next year, my answer is: I'd love to.
Thanks again. Have a good year.
Yossi

Everyone was so friendly and helpful. Staff and campers had a smile on their face every day. It was a sincere pleasure to attend with so many talented people. I also appreciated the quiet dorm option as many campers had greater endurance than I did! In question #6 you did not list dulcimer. I took Mike's dulcimer workshop week 2. He was a good instructor and an extraordinary craftsman. I will enjoy playing one of his instruments for many years.

The two are VERY different with different approaches. But both helped me achieve my goals. It's just that one is like a grape, and one is like a BIG, JUICY Watermelon! (I'll leave you to decide which is the watermelon)
the check in staff was soooooo friendly and helpful - it was a pleasure!
Favorite Experience = Fiddle Tune Jam with Tony Anthonisen. Other favorite experiences - "Check My Pickin" with Bob Fisher and Robin Kessinger's class. These things were AWESOME!
I' not sure what you can do about it - - but those chairs in the Alumni Arena were TORTURE! Oh well - I'd come back even if I had to sit in those chairs all day every day! Mary Miller

Workshop with Just Us was wonderful. Also really got a lot out of the class scramble
Don Freeman

I really enjoyed John Moore's class. He structured it very well...he's a really great teacher. I got probably the most out of my classes this year then all the previous put together. The concert venue seating arrangement was much better this year...but the chairs still stink. I know that's why I tend not to stay for they entire concert sometimes...I just can't sit in those chairs that long.

I have had some time to reflect on my week at kamp and the Songwriting, Singing class, and it was no doubt the best week in my five years at kamp.Kathy is an outstanding instructor. As you have probably already heard the only complaint was that a week was not enough time, but maybe that is as it should be. We need to stay hungry for more, it keeps us coming back. The class atmosphere was great, lots of laughs, and a few tears. (we're the sensitive type) Anyway, it was a great week and look forward to next year. Thank You Steve and Donna and the whole crew!!

As usual, this year's SKAK experience was stellar. You, Donna, Mark, the faculty, and all of the rest of the FlatPik Team have done an outstanding
job. We will be back in '10!
Mike, Earleen, & Ace

I was a first time kamper. All instructors were well prepared with an agenda, which can be so bad when they are NOT. I had a GREAT time, all events very well organized, etc.
Tabasco and Tony Chachere' seasoning on every table, LOL. This cajun needed some spices ! haha

From: Brian H.
Subject: Home from Kamp and Thanks!

Just a short note of thanks for a great week! A special thanks to everyone who purchased the tribute CD "The Road Home" for Butch. I stopped by to
visit with his wife Sinclair and his son Blake. It was a long trip home to Texas but I wanted to stop in Nashville. I told them the good news of how many CDs were purchased and that more importantly our friend Butch was on the hearts of so many fine people. No one can quite understand what happens
at Kamp when so many wonderful and talented and loving people gather to spend a brief time together. I am truly blessed to be a part of this special
community....Thanks again! Hope to see you all down the road.

Hi Steve,

Your Kamps are amazing - what a great contribution you have made to musical education and community (and not bad business for you either I presume!)

Thanks again for the lesson - between you and John Carlini I got my marching orders for the next year. Can you recommend one of your videos to help reinforce the posture, hand position, pick angle, etc. that we reviewed in my lesson? You have so many, and I am not really looking for tunes and arrangements, just basic technique.

Also, I think I have found the pick that works for me - those freebie faux-tortoise picks that you gave us in our welcome packet! They feel a tad thicker than your yellow pick, and they have a less slippery surface. I suppose they are similar to a Fender medium?
Anyway, thanks again, and I'll see you next year if not sooner.
Pat Walker

Thank you both for a great Kamp experience. The instructors were great, the entertainment phenomenal, the food good. What more could I ask for? Well Saturday night (6/27/09) I had the biggest surprise when you called out my number for the Deering Boston Banjo. Thank you for a great time. I may have talked some friends into going to next years Kamp.

Dear Steve and Donna,

Just wanted to drop you a line to say thank you so much for an absolutely brilliant week. You guys made me so welcome, taught me so much and generally showed me the best time.
The Kamp really is a special place and I feel privileged to have been a part of it.
Please send my love and thanks to everyone and hope week 2 is as much of a blast.
Tory x

"Thank you so much for teaching and inspiring us this week. You are a
beautiful person, and you have an amazing voice. I look up to you in
so many ways. Thanks for making me feel comfortable. it was a
pleasure and an experience of a lifetime to be able to sing with you.

Thanks!
Marcy Each

"Kathy,
Thanks for your support and patience!
Love,
"1st Kaufman Songwriting/Vocal Class 2009"

These are from Chris Proctor's Students. 2008 was Chris' first time at Kamp and we are thrilled to have his return in 2009

Dear Chris,
Just a short note to thank you for the class which you taught us beginners on Friday. It's strange but I feel much more of a beginner now than I did before you deconstructed all that I'd ever learned! Anyway, I am hard at work with my thumb - 6-4,6-4, 5-4, 5-4, etc. and having changed my strings and had the tetanus shot, I feel confident of progress. Just wait until next year and all will be revealed.
Again, thank you for the instruction, it was and will be invaluable, as was the opportunity to hear you play at such close quarters - I don't know if I'll quite get to playing G with my elbow but, who knows......
best regards,
Nicholas Peel

Chris,
I really enjoy your Basic Fingerstyle Class. It is just what I needed to know to continue with my knowledge of fingerstyle guitar. I still
practice everyday and will continue to practice everyday. I know that is the only way to get better. Hopefully when you see me at Steve's camp
next year you would have seen an improvement. Looking forward to seeing you next year.

Paul W. Guilmette
Clearwater, FL

Chris,

Thanks for the great class. I will have to admit, after seeing you perform earlier in the week, several of us were intimidated and not knowing if someone with your prowess would be able to help beginners. You sure did!

It was a little thing, but when you made us "compose" Tom Dooley, you opened my eyes. I picked up the guitar at age 40, wanting to play my whole life. Now, at 43, I have made some progress, but have very few tunes memorized. That little exercise made me realize that I had dozens of tunes in my head, and I could find the melodies.

The songs I did know, I would have to pull out the tab for them, and put it on a music stand. Since your class, I have allowed my memory to help me "find" the fingerings to songs I have read many times, and it has opened my eyes.

One more thing.....you motivated me to mute my strings and "thumb bass" while relaxing at home.........also while my hand is on the steering wheel of my car....just trying to make it totally automatic and be able to be a true intermediate by next year.

Have a great year in the interim, and I will send you a recording in the next few months. Playing with your eyes closed really puts feeling into the music.
Adam P
Mt Pleasant, SC

Date: Thu, 19 Jun 2008 21:37:41 -0400
From: kv
Subject: Post Kamp Report

Yesterday was our last day at Kamp for 2008. We had a wonderful time - every year it gets better and better. The concerts were just incredible. I guess my favorite was Thursday of week 1 when Barbara Lamb did her set - what a performer and great fiddle player! Bobby Hicks and Adam Masters twin fiddled Lonesome Moonlight Waltz that night - wow! I really enjoyed Bob Black's set that night. He played banjo for Bill Monroe's. He did a great set and included "Crossing the Cumberlands" which may have been the only tune Monroe ever wrote for banjo. It is one of my all time favorites. Another outstanding performance was Missy Raines doing her original tunes - very, very impressive. Last night Aonzo and Bepe did a great set. Aonzo was playing a "potato bug" mandolin. I had never heard one played before. They were wonderful together. Aonzo said Bepe talked him into going to Winfield some years ago and entering the mandolin contest. He won! There were so many wonderful performers who have played in the last 10 days, I can't name them all. A lot of the fun is that different performers/teachers come together for the first time and bingo - a fantastic performance. I love the sets where Steve Kaufman has his friends play with him and they trade licks. Steve's command of the instrument is astounding. It is a thrill for us to hear him playing #100 (or Hunnert as he calls it).

Last night Ken and I, along with Bob and Diane Rostolen sang "Will You Miss Me When I'm Gone" at the open mic. I get terrible stage fright and my knees were shaking so bad I didn't think I'd make it - but then we got to the second verse which I particularly like and I found new strength. Bob, Diane and Ken came in with the 4 part harmony on the chorus. Hiawassee Ridge was doing the sound and I've never heard better sound anywhere. What a treat to perform a song with that kind of sound. =0D=0A=0D=0AWe've had a fantastic 10 days visiting with old friends, making new friends, meeting Pickles, jamming.
We even had a friend from Kentucky drop in one evening and jam with us. I took fiddle lessons week one and it helped. I can hardly wait to get home
and start practicing with Steve Kaufman's 4 hour bluegrass workout.
The time went by incredibly fast. We regret that we're missing Chris Newman's set and won't be there to hear David Grier on Saturday. It's hard to believe it's over. Lots of good memories. Already looking forward to 2009!

From: Jenny Talton-Proulx <jenny@PROULXGUITARS.COM>
Subject: Jenny's "take" on Kamp

When I told Mario it was the "best Kamp ever," he said "no it isn't." When I got a stricken look on
my face, he said "next year's will be the best." I understood what he meant. When I suggested, on
the long, arduous drive home from Newport NC, that we skip Kamp next year, he got a stricken look on
his face. I understood what he meant. This is the first time he's shown that not going to Kamp
would be a travesty. Both of us cannot stand the thought of not seeing the folks who've become like
family to us. Plus, every year Mario progresses in his mandolin playing.

We had the best of all worlds re our accommodations! We were in Beeson/Memorial, rooming with Dick
and Josh Daniels; across the hall were Peter and Jan Holmes-Ray; above were Marv and Nancy
Sobolesky; across from them were Keith White, Tim McGaughy, and Dan Forney. No conflicts of
interest there!:-)

The food during Week 2 was actually good this year and I managed to gain 4 lbs, instead of losing 4
lbs, like last year. The ice cream machine worked and the cafeteria staff never said a word about
bringing in our own coffee. There was a new cafeteria manager, which is what I think made all the
difference. Oh, plus the "how the cow ate the cabbage" talk from SK. Only two complaints: No
bacon all week and someone needs to tell them that grits is not porridge.

What blew me away at the Kamp Koncerts was the mandolins. Ohmigosh!!!!! Don Stiernberg, Emory
Lester, and David Harvey, plus a bit of Jeff Jenkins playing jazzy guitar, was over-the-top, for me
at least. Roland White is in a class all by himself and his showcasing his all-stars young pickers
was such an act of selflessness.

Every year, I get to spend more time to know a few Listers a little better and this year it was Norm
Cox, Bill Whitacre, Peter Cady, John Bryan, Randall Runion, and Dan Forney. It was totally great to
see Krashers Jamey Pittman, David Dugas, Peter Fryefield, Robert Lehew, Tulsa Terry Davis, Andy
Willoughby, and Stan Travis.

I would be totally remiss if I didn't mention my special girlfrienz, Ruth Ann Irwin and Jan
Holmes-Ray. We have such a great time together and I cherish them like sisters. Our husbands are
wonderful because they never say a word about our shopping trips and lunches and infamous trip to
Dillard's!!!!! Wear them proudly, girlz!!! :-)

As an aside, I will be 60 on July 20 and feel 35. Have been playing guitar 45 years, singing 48
years, gigging 43 years, flatpicking 8 years. Life is better than good, IT'S WONDERFUL &GREAT &
TOTALLY TUBULAR and I'm GRATEFULLY CONTENT.

--
Jenny Talton-Proulx
Big Nelle Lake, Ontario
Blueberries, Bluegrass, Barbecue
www.proulxguitars.com

Thanks for the great class. I will have to admit, after seeing you perform earlier in the week, several of us were intimidated and not knowing if someone with your prowess would be able to help beginners. You sure did!

It was a little thing, but when you made us "compose" Tom Dooley, you opened my eyes. I picked up the guitar at age 40, wanting to play my whole life. Now, at 43, I have made some progress, but have very few tunes memorized. That little exercise made me realize that i had dozens of tunes in my head, and i could find the melodies.

The songs i did know, i would have to pull out the tab for them, and put it on a music stand. Since your class, I have allowed my memory to help me "find" the fingerings to songs i have read many times, and it has opened my eyes.

One more thing.....you motivated me to mute my strings and "thumb bass" while relaxing at home.........also while my hand is on the steering wheel of my car....just trying to make it totally automatic and be able to be a true intermediate by next year.

Have a great year in the interim, and I will send you a recording in the next few months. Playing with your eyes closed really puts feeling into the music.

From: Randall Runion

Subject: Reminiscences Of A First Time Kamper

Since I have to be "on the job" by 10 AM on Sunday, and also since my wife and I will be celebrating our 39th wedding anniversary and the kids are
coming home to help us celebrate, I left Kamp right after the David Grier Workshop. The bags are (mostly) unpacked, I have played a few fiddle tunes
for the wife, and things are getting back to normal EXCEPT that I STILL haven't turned the TV on yet. Somehow it doesn't seem as important.

Kamp was an awesome learning experience for me. I was in the Intermediate Klasses and altho I felt like I was in WAY over my head at times, I brought
back enough stuff to work on for a really LOOOONNNNGGG time. There were questions answered for me, this week, that I have wondered about for years.
The teaching staff was awesome, and I took in as many of the extra events as I possibly could. I started every day with the slow jam, did all the
classes, Tune Of The Day, Medium Jam in the afternoon, Master Klass with Chris Newman, all the concerts except the David Grier Saturday Night
concert, and several late-night jams in my supposedly "Quiet" dorm. It was guiet, when we finally wore out and went to bed.

Now, with fear and trepidation that I will leave someone out, let me see if I can reminisce about some of the "Listers" I met. I'll begin by saying
thanks to the Shurff. BK let me borrow an Eridol to record the klasses and then burned them to CD's for me. So I can go back and listen to things that
I need to hear again. Norm Cox was my very own "goodwill ambassador" all week. He was forever tracking me down and saying, "Come on, there's someone you need to me." That was how I got to meet most of the listers. So I'll say a great big Thanks to Norm. John Bryant brought me a ethernet cable so I could stay in touch with the scattered family. And he was also in my group, & I appreciate the help he gave me during the week. Tommy Jordan was another
"goodwill ambassador," who introduced me to some of the listers early on. He was busy with responsibilities at Kamp, but always had time for a kind and
helpful word. And also Keith White, who helped make several first-day introductions, and who gave me some chord sheets to help me out in the jams.
Thanks, Keith. Marv was very kind to bring me a Kapo like the local dealer said would NOT work on an acoustic guitar, but which worked like a charm on
my Martin D-15 LE. Thanks for delivering a sale to Kamp, Marv. And I had a very delightful conversation with Mrs Sobolosky during one of the Concert
intermissions. Marv, I think you may have "out-punted your coverage" when you got her to the altar. BOG.

I want to thank Chris Newman for the Master's Class. I "crashed and burned" which was painful and embarrasing, but, at the same time, I'm glad it
happened, because it's something I want to overcome and he told me what I was doing wrong. So I have another thing to work on. Chris, when I was
playing for my wife tonight, I was looking at me LEFT hand! And Jim Turpin was also another student in my Master's Class who identified and pointed out
another problem that he and Chris agreed was holding me back, so I'm working on how I hold the guitar. I've been playing for years, and no one has ever
pointed that out to me. It probably answers the question of why I have so much trouble playing standing up with a strap. I'll work on it.

I would also like to thank Steve and Donna, of course, for a great Kamp experience. Thanks for doing it. It was GREAT!

A great big thank you also goes to Harry Moore, and to everyone and anyone who had anything whatsoever to do with the DU scholarship. Thanks, everyone
for making it possible.

The very FIRST person I met on campus Sunday afternoon, and the first Lister I met was Connie Ottway. She pointed out the building for registration which
was the first thing I needed when I got there.

OK, it's late, I'm tired from all the late night jams. I'm gone. Great week.
Thanks to all.
--
Y'all Play Purty Now!

Randall

From: "dr.mikey"

Subject: Back from Kamp

Just got back a couple of hours ago and picked up the pups. Let me just say HOLY XXXX. Kamp was a seriously deranged fun event this year. I'll save
the details for the report, but try to imagine lots of pickers and party-ers, very late nights EVERY night, an enormous reservoir of humor (and just crazy nonsense), instructors hanging out at the party (e.g., I stood in the kitchen and laughed with Chris Newman until 5 AM Saturday morning), and all the great learning opportunities at Kamp. Now multiply that by a factor of about 5.

My pick for great musical moment of the week is Rick Crenshaw's reggae performance of a song he wrote specifically for the final party in the
Twisted Pair suite on Saturday night/Sunday morning. I found myself wishing someone was recording the event, but then I thought "No, it's better that
everyone who's here remember it their own way."

OK, my brain is short circuiting again. More later in the week once I get some IV fluids and sleep.

Mike

PS - Thanks to everyone who made this year's Kamp a truly fun event -
especially my partner in crime Skip Staples.

From: Anita Marie
Subject: Back from Kamp

Posting to report that myself, Guilda and Rolly are back safe and sound from our 1st ever Kamp.

Words fail me to express how much fun it was and how great everything and everyone was. Many thanks to Steve and Donna for all, I really mean it when I say words kan't express how xxxxxxx good it was.

But right now I am soooo tired, I kan't even type. Need Sleep.

Special Thanks to Elizabeth for being the greatest roommate a girl could ever hope to be stuck in a dorm room with. Awesome, Elizabeth and a great big thank you!!!!!!!

Link to the photos (I took with Elizabeth's Kamera - Thanks again, Elizabeth!) will be forthkoming when I regain my ability to type.
Aaaahhhgghhh I am so tired. The Great Smokey Mountians looked awesome at dawn, though, just thought I'd say......
Best fun I ever had.

Thank you to all who made my Kamp experience a warm and wonderful.

(the other) Anita
Detroit

From: Gary_Collier
Subject: Back from Kamp...

Short notes on Kamp 2008, week 2.

This was my 2nd time ('06 was the first) and a much better experience all
around. The "old timers" are right, it gets better each time you go. I was a lot
less shy about meeting new folks and came away with several new, good
friends. I jammed and jammed and wore my body out from the late nights... but I
didn't go to Kamp to sleep!

There are too many names to mention w/out leaving someone out. Thanks to
Norm Cox and Matt Henley for hangin' with me off and on all week. Y'all are
great. (Hey Norm, is it raining? <g>)

The classes were outstanding. I especially enjoyed Mitch Corbin (that guy
rocks) and Russ Barenberg as instructors... although the rest were good too.

The nightly concerts were each amazing in their own way. Mon. night with
Keith Yoder's tribute to his father is a special memory, along with David Grier
and Matt Flinner last night - yowzah!

The food was - well, cafeteria food. It was great to eat breakfast this
morning in Maryville at Panerra Bread Co. and lunch at Cracker Barrel on the way
home!

I had a great roomie, Phil Burt. We had some fun jams, including the night
when I walked in my room after the concert and Russ Barenberg was sitting
there trying out a month-old Leo Posch dread. How's that for cool?

Forget what Randall said about me. I'm really shy and reserved, like SK told
my class about himself. Being around crowds of people make me a nervous
wreck. No, really...

GaCo
Albany, Ga.

p.s. Anita, glad to hear the resident FPL groupie made it home safely!

From: Dick Daniels
Subject: Re: Back from Kamp

Great Kamp this year! All instructors were awesome and I came away with several fun new tunes and LOTS to work on. I especially liked Kathy Barwick's and Mitch Corbin's classes, my first exposure to them. Oh and Chris Newman's class was awesome. Bass classes went quite well with another 3 or 4 new full blown bass converts by weeks end. Anita Hammond, the star bass student last year is now a very impressive bassist! Next year watch out for Ralph Papile on bass! Scary huh?

Every year it's fun to make new FP-L connections and this year I was especially glad to finally meet Peter Cady. What a great wit. Elizabeth and Anita you were each a joy to be around. Glad also to meet Randall Runion from SC, among several others that I'm sure I'll recall in the coming days. Great to see Erika Brady back this year! And Jamey Pitman it'd been too long.

Josh had a great Kamp. Thanks to all who have gotten to know and encourage him over the last few years. Music and Kamp in particular have made a huge
impact in his life. He went back to ATL with Rebecca (Janie's mom) and I took Janie to Cleveland, GA on my way home. I'd try to make that swap permanent, but don't want to go through that 16-18 year-old stage again right away. I've got another one, Joey, coming up soon enough. Seriously, one of the best parts about Kamp is getting to know the other families and being a part of the kids lives and growth. BTW, Sam Irwin's version of "Prettiest Girl in the Room" at Isaacs was priceless!

Here's hoping everyone will make it home safe and sound.
Looking forward to seeing many of you throughout the coming year! Let's find some ways to get together.

DiDa

From: Elizabeth Herreid
Subject: Very long Kamp reflektions and redux

I just know I'm going to forget some things and some people, so apologies for that in advance. And because I didn't take notes at the time, my days are all swirled together - can't remember what happened when. I'd probably be better off *not* trying to put this in chronological order.

So...classes first. My group started off with Jeff Jenkins, which I admit, as someone else said, was a bit like trying to drink from a fire hose. He was one of my favorite performers, but I was lost after about the first fifteen minutes in his class, and was pretty sure I'd signed up for the long level. It was all good material, though -- I wish I could take the same class again with a bit more knowledge to pull from. It did remind me how much I like that style of music, even
if it is intimidating to a lower level guitarist.

We had Mitch next. He was in my top two as the instructors went, I think. He worked a lot on right hand attack and rhythm, and is a master of pointing out what people may be doing wrong without making them feel small. Super nice guy. I hope he's back next time.

I guess I don't have to touch on every one, but let's see...who else? Chris Newman's class was my favorite, without question. I'll be incorporating his exercises into my practice routine, for sure, and working on the chords he gave us.

Kathy Barwick's class was one that I only absorbed partially, through no fault of hers. It was the first class where I was really struggling with sleep deprivation, which ticked me off because I'm absolutely drawn to crosspicking as a style. The patterns in it speak to my inner fingerpicker, whilst being completely different. She's another I hope will be back, if only because I need to take that class again with a bit more experience to pull from.

Master classes are a new addition to Kamp for me, and one I hope to take more advantage of next time.

Favorite moments: one of the biggest was that night when Mark Cosgrove and Robin Bullock and Kamper Joe (McColley) were jamming out on the steps leading up from Beeson. A couple hours of some of the best music ever. They did fast stuff, they did slow stuff (I loved Ashokan Farewell - they should do that on stage sometime!), and everything in between. Wonderful.

Also on the last day Robin was playing in the Bartlett lobby with a guitarist and mandolinist/guitarist. Very pretty music. I didn't catch the names of the other two musicians, but if you're out there, thanks!

Connie Ottway (she's on the list, right?) had some wonderful jams at her place - also favorite memories. It was different every night I was there. One night they did a lot of Jay Unger and such like and some country songs, another night had more Celtic flavor, and another time Jeff Jenkins had the whole place swingin'. Good music, all.

And, though I'm not sure if any of them are listers, thanks to the folks who were generally jamming down in the Carnegie Hall lobby who let me join in even though I'd crash and burn on my turns, or not come in on time, or not know how to direct when the next person should come in, etc, etc., etc. You were all so patient - I'd like to hope I've learned a lot.

I can't even touch on the concerts - there's just too much to say. It was a wonderful Kamp. As Anita and I discussed, we'd run out of superlatives by about the middle of the week. I'm really hoping to make it back sooner than in another seven years this time around! I'm going to vie for the "Most Improved" position....

Thanks to Steve and Donna for making it all possible!

Elizabeth Herreid
Tumwater, WA

From: Marv Sobolesky
Subject: Re: Home From Kamp 2008

This was my fourth Kamp and to me it was the best one yet. As Skip comments the Kamps are all unique. This one just seemed a little more laid back and
all of the jams were great. Might be because of being a "no banjo" week <G> joking.....

We didn't get home until 2 am this morning. Sunday morning started out terrific. We said good bye to all of our friends at Kamp and then drove to Nashville and visited the Hermitage. Then we drove over to David Grier's place and he took us out for some BBQ at Jack's BBQ (over by Gruhn Guitar).
Yum Yum! We all went back to David's place and Nancy and I headed for the airport. Things were still going along great.

We got on our flight to Portland Oregon which had to make a stop in Chicago. It took an additional 30 minutes after we landed in Chicago to get to the
Gate so folks could on and off the plane. Finally we get to the gate and things are going along smoothly. They had just closed the door and the plane
was getting ready to back away from the gate when a truck suddenly hit the
wing of our plane, causing damage. The plane was completely full. They
obviously couldn't fly the plane that way so we all had to wait on the plane
while they tried to come up with another plane to fly us to Portland Oregon.
Finally a couple of hours later we are loaded on a new plane and headed
home.

I think it was the best Kamp of my limited Kamp experience. Looking forward to 2009.

Marv Sobolesky

From: Cindy Gray
Subject: Another Kamp reminiscence

Kamp had a new feel to it this year. It was a sort of touchy feely feel, a warm fuzzy feel. At least for me. Of course, we all love to indulge ourselves
at Kamp---we allow ourselves to sink into an orgy of picking and suspending the reality of our everyday lives. But this year, while we indulged ourselves, we
were also very cognizant of how temporary and precious this time we have together is. I heard more waltzes and slowed tempos. I heard more gospel tunes sung reverently. I heard more kindly spoken, thank you. Of course, there were also the usual shoot-outs and all-in-fun roasts and toasts and back-slapping. But there were also many moments at Kamp this year when we paused to express hope and gratitude. There were moments when we shared our grief and sadness for the terrible situations that some of our friends are in---John Studdard, Butch Baldassari and Robin Kessinger. There were moments
when we were faced with the humbling reality that children are overtaking us---in skill, if not in numbers. And its all good.
My favorite moments included Robin Bullock's performance of Shenandoah, dedicated to John and Cindy Studdard and Butch. And the several shoot-outs between the master gunslingers, Kaufman, Cosgrove and Newman---they really zinged off each other this year! I LOVED the new mandolin Instructor, David Harvey---WOW, what virtuosity (especially when paired with Emory Lester!). And---although most of you missed it---Week One was full of highlights for me, too. Getting to play and hang with Missy Raines, Bobby Hicks and Laura Boosinger were personal high water marks for me.
Instructing the 101 classes was a total privilege for me this year. The students worked so hard! It was really intense. It reminded me of my days, way
back in the 80's, as an Outward Bound Instructor where my job was to shepherd people through something that was very difficult and frustrating for them. Getting started on playing guitar is a lot like climbing a mountain! And we went through many of the same experiences that my Outward Bound students used to experience---pain (we had blistered and bloody fingers), frustration, tears, self-doubt. But ultimately, success! They all learned G, C and D, a few bass runs, and some simple melody lines. The Week Two students actually performed on stage, and I felt like a proud Mom! (especially since most of them were
kids).
My duties pretty much dictated that I restrain my wild and crazy urges throughout the week. Which turned out to be a really good thing---who'da thunk
that the fastest way to drop 10 pounds was to quit drinkin' beer! I didn't jam as much as when I was a Kamper (forced myself to quit at midnight), so I aimed
for quality time. Jamming with Hank Wright was a great privilege---he described his approach to practicing and learning, and it inspired me to incorporate some of his ideas into my own practice. I had a session with a couple Krashers---Dan Lashbrook and his assistant, Jackson---that also proved
inspirational. And I cherished the time---although it was far too little---that I got to spend with the group of guys who have become like brothers to me---Wild Bill Merrit and the Kidd Brothers. Special thanks to my other big brother, Warren, who let me play his newest guitar again
Thanks to the minions who helped me---at the last minute---put my show together: Tommy and Dick, Barry and Rick, Hank and Gary, Jenny and Mario, Carl, Connie and Anita. What our performance lacked in virtuosity we made up for in personality, eh? Dozens of Kampers---especially newbies---complimented us and said our performance gave them hope that they, too, might someday ascend the hallowed steps to the main stage. Is that a good thing??....
I liked the fact that there was a lot more singing this year. My afternoon vocal classes were packed and people were really excited about the method we used
to find harmonies. I loved singing with Andy Willoughby and Gary Collier---it's magic when a trio just falls into plac. I made my annual pilgrimage to Skip and Mikey's place on the last night of Kamp---the only night I "went wild" and stayed up until 3am (I even drank 2 beers!). Thanks to them and their lovely (and tolerant!) wives for bearing the torches of Kamp traditions. It's neat to feel a part of something, and they really create that with their boundless hospitality and twisted wires (yes, there's intentional symbolism there).
As many others have said, enormous thanks go to Steve and Donna for creating this magical space and place called Kamp. We are all so privileged to get to go there!
Cindy

Subject: Kamp pictures

Here are some pictures for your entertainment:

http://tinyurl.com/4

Subject: Kamp 08

This was my second year at Kamp and it was even more thrilling this year
than last. Mainly I guess that was because I "jumped in the pool" a few more
times and didn't let nerves stop me from having some special experiences as
much as I did my first year. It seems that at the fast pace at Kamp, and
with the mingling of our celebrity heros in with us plain ol kamper
students, some of these opportunities are presented by providential timing
and circumstances (and their willingness to be involved with us on stage).
But then you have to act on those momentary opportunities, and you usually
have about a split second before the opportunity passes.

I had the opportunity to play a few tunes after lunch one day with Mark
Cosgrove, Jerry Sutton and a fellow from Texas whose name eludes me, but who
really belonged picking with those other two... a lot more than me! (He was
a real good picker). They did a beautiful job on Rainbow, then I joined them
to do East Tennessee Blues and Ragtime Annie. Mark gave me some pointers and
constructive feedback to help me afterward and you couldn't have had a
better lesson than that immediate constructive feedback after a short jam on
a few tunes. That was a thrilling moment I'll not forget. I recall just
watching Mr. Sutton play last year in some week1 jams in Carnegie and being
very impressed with his ability. So it was also a thrill to play with him in
this little impromptu jam.

My room mate Andy Childs and I played twice at Issac's and it was a positive
experience for us both, both times. Out of that came the idea to take Tom
Paxton's "The Last Thing on My Mind" to the open mic and that ended up being
the best thing I did all week as far as going ahead and getting over letting
nerves spoil a golden opportunity. I just happened to be sitting next to
Roland White at lunch next day and asked if he would consider accompanying
me on the tune Thursday night at open mic. I had no idea it was one of his
standards, or that he had it on his own program later on! (He told me later
on that he didn't want to tell me just before I went out to do the number
for open mic, that he was also going to do it on his set. I'm glad he
didn't. I might have chickened out! Of course, he was perfect! and I had a
thrill with that song you just couldn't equal. Between a rock solid pro
playing bass and singing harmony, Keith Yoder doing his guitar magic and
singing harmony, and Mr. White tickling the mando as only he can on that
sort of tune, I'll never have more fun singing that song as I did Thursday
night!

One thing that seems to make Kamp utterly unique (and in a way a sort of
"fantasy come true" for a week if you grab those moments) is that most of us
Kamp students will never any where else get the kind opportunity to perform
on a concert stage with the likes of some of these celebrity performers who
so graciously agree to join us if we'll only ask!

Now I'm off to try to make my metronome disappear.
We asked Mitch Corbin if he could make the pile driver disappear, and,
with an amp, I really think he could!
(Someone suggested there should have been a Kamp 08 tee shirt with a picture
of a pile driver on it that read "We survived the Pile Driver").

Thanks to everyone there week2. It was a magic week for me. I hope to see
you all next time around.

Dale:)

From: Biscuit Dave
Subject: Re: Home From Kamp 2008

I can't either...imagine what life would be like if I had never gone to Kamp Kaufman...and I'll save some of the highlights for later, but a special thanks to Cindy Gray for teaching my youngest son Glenn (who is 9) in her Flatpicking 101 course. She got the little guy so excited about the guitar that he talks of little else and keeps walking around with it on his strap.

On a different note, we have taken to calling him "Ham Biscuit" after his performance with the New Pickers Friday night on stage.

Biscuit

____________________________________________________________________________________________

From: Anita Marie
Subject: Photos of my kamp experience

Hey,

Here is the link to my '08 Kamp photos....

http://www.flickr.com/photos/dustymarienini/sets/72157605764110865/

I think I got all the typos out, but please correct me if I got some names or guitar makes/models wrong....

Thanks again to Elizabeth Harreid. I left home with out my camera (made me sick when I realized it), and Eliz let me use hers.....

AF

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

From: Bill Bain <bill_bain99@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: Kamp '08: Notes from the Shallow End of The Talent Pool

A few quick notes - since I'm supposed to be working! :-)

This year had a different feel -- it was much more like a reunion than previous years. Maybe it was the news (ultimately good) about Robin Kessinger, or the Yoder family's performance of "I'll Fly Away" (yes, I cried too, having lost my mother in May), I don't know, but the vibe was there.

Most "real" moment - see above.

Second most "real" moment - Robin Bullock's "Shenandoah" [sp?] - cried during that one too.

Hottest pickin' - Jamey Pittman and Jeff Jenkins just ripping up "Salt Creek" at Warp 9 and Mario hanging right in there.

Coolest pickin' - Mark Cosgrove, Robin Bullock and Joe McColley [sp?] picking on the Beeson steps after the concert.

Oddest moment - getting "drafted" by my suitemate to accompany a mandolinist at Isaac's on a song I didn't know. I managed to swallow my performance anxiety and get up there and do it without screwing up, which is a major milestone for someone (me) who couldn't even take a lesson without having to use Clonidine to control hand tremors, etc. Next time I'll get up there, fer sure. Heck, I even sang in a late night jam, and I hadn't even had any beer!

Nicest moment -- stopping in to see the Proulxs and being invited to a small jam with Marv, Tim O'G and Dan Fortney. Dan asked to play my Gallagher and had nice, if somewhat hyperbolic, things to say about it. I think Dan's Rockbridge was doggone nice too, once I got used to the neck and string spacing. Marv was kind enough to pick a few with me and I didn't choke!

Stupidest moment -- almost accidentally running Elizabeth off a jam late on Saturday night in the Carnagie lobby -- Andy Childs and I kicked a couple of tunes off too fast (now there's a a rarity for me!) and weren't really paying attention to the other players. Still we managed to sort it out, and I've resolved to pay more attention next time.

That's not to say that the rest of the Kamp wasn't amazing. Best instructor is a 3 way tie this year for me -- Mitch Corbin, Kathy Barwick (except for the fact that there was one player in our group who deserved the whole doggone sheet of deedle dots in one class) and Jeff Jenkins, who, after 3 years, is starting to make this whole music theory, etc. stuff sink in my thick skull.

Oops - back to work . . . .

Bill Bain
Atlanta

From: Kathy Barwick
Subject: Re: Kamp '08: Notes from the Shallow End of The Talent Pool

Bill, was that you that talked to me about the deedling? If so, I want to thank you. (I was unaware of it, probably too focused on where I was going).
But at any rate, I think (hope) in my subsequent classes I tried to be more aware of it and so dealt with it better. So, sorry for your frustration,
but by talking to me about it all my subsequent classes really benefited. I think.

From: Sue Field
Subject: Kamp Thanks

Kamp was almost magical for a second year a row. Everyone was so supportive and kind. I can't even count the number of interesting folks I met. My hats off to Steve and Donna for what they have created.
Anyway I wanted to send in a thanks to all the teachers for their endless patience, sacrifice, and generosity of spirit helping us all the become better musicians.
And a special thanks to Brian Kimsey for doing such a nice job on my set up and accomodating my schedule. Dude you are da bomb.
Best Regards,
Sue Field
Group 6
California

From: Todd Higgins
Subject: Re: SKAK Finale 2008

>realized how much I want to be back. One year to go!

Well, you know what the solution for this desire to stay at kamp year round might be for some? When you're ready to call it quits and kiss work goodbye there should be: "Steve Kaufman's Acoustic Kamp Retirement Community" Just imagine, your own slice of dorm/apartment/assisted living facility heaven full of acoustic music camaraderie complete with a free vinyl mattress.
Of course, building the old folks er, I mean "retirement community" won't be cheap. It will take all of your savings, but hey, what did you work for all those years anyway? Did you scrimp and save just to let your kids live high on the hog once you're gone? Imagine, spending your golden years jamming around the nurse's station! If you stay up till 11pm picking one night, you can go to bed at 7pm for the next five nights to recuperate and it won't matter cause you never have to leave!

Marcus Todd Higgins
London, KY
http://youtube.com/watch?v=3Dt7w255760yE

Hey Steve and Donna,
What a week. How do you do it? I couldn't believe how smooth everything went and yet there was so much going on. Steve, you sounded great on stage. You are perfect for each other and you make everyone feel like a part of your family. Even if people didn't learn much from Kamp they'd probably return just for the vibe. I was honored to be a part of it and I learned a lot.

From: Phil Burt
Subject: A Great KAMP Story

I doubt that anything like this would happen at any rock festival, maybe a folk fest but still not with the "Big Stars"

Myself along with 3 others were practicing the lead singing verses 2 & 4 from "Rolling in my Sweet Babies Arms". We were part of Keith Yoder's "Tune of the Day" bunch and we were going to do this number along with 2 other songs on the main stage. We were having trouble getting the words correct to the melody when Mr. Roland White comes walking by. He says "Hi" and asks how we are doing and we tell him about our trouble. He stops and stays there helping us with this, we went through it several times and he never tried to rush away. He gave us some pointers that really helped. I want to add the Roland was on ..... HIS .... way to practice for his performance on stage that night, but he found time to help us. What a gentleman!

Thank You MR. Roland White

I believe this shows the spirit of Kaufman Kamp, helping each other when it is needed regardless of ones ability or status.
--
PhiBu
benton, ky

From: Mike Martin
Subject: 1st time tired camper

Hey guys, This was my first time at camp and I didn't have any type of idea of what to expect. I just figure a lot of Bluegrass.

Was I ever surrised.Don't tell Steve, but I would have paid any price to have the experience of last week.

Camp is one of those places where you can go on and on telling people about how great it is and not over do it. I don't know how many times I told the instructors and others that the music ended up secondary to how nice and caring everyone was. Everyone joked about the food but I think I gained 5 pounds even though I walked up innumerable amount of stairs. Good thing about that is I needed it to carry my BIG HEAVY GUITAR. Thinking of changing to mando next year LOL
Anyway thanks to all of you who went out of there way to make me feel comfortable enough to try and play in front of people even though I knew I would mess up because of nerves (I can't believe people still clapped! LOL).Can't wait to see all the pictures. Hope to see everyone next year.

From: Mike Arant
Subject: Re: A Great KAMP Story

>>I doubt that anything like this would happen at any rock festival, maybe a >>folk fest but still not with the "Big Stars"

True, but KAMP is not a music festival....its a hands on learning and love gathering with 99.9% of the people there (including the instructors/stars) all in the
frame of mind of helping, teaching, learning and enjoying the craft. Not to take anything away from Mr White's generosity, KAMP and its magical environment can't be compared to a Newport Folk Fest or a Bonnaroo Music Festival. Its only at KAMP where the audience is hauling more musical gear than the scheduled bands or instructors.....and often lend their instruments to other performers.

Seems more like a family reunion.
FPH

PS: I dont care WHO he is, Aint no way that Pete Townsend is getting any where near my guitar.

From: Tony Anthonisen
Subject: Re: Kamp '08

OK, I'm probably the last person to post on Kamp 2008. The nice thing is that I can say I simply agree with virtually all of the positive things that
have been said already. Kamp 2008 was unequalled! I have enjoyed it five times before, but for some reason, this was the best. A few reasons -

1. Each year, I truly enjoy seeing my friends from past Kamps. There were more friends at week 2 this year. Hence, more enjoyment. Plus, many new friends! Thanks to all for your openness, generosity and friendship.

3. The jamming was really, really good.
4. The food was the best ever. More veggies and less fried food.
5. Cindy and Keith are one of the best additions to Kamp ever!
6. I thoroughly enjoyed the classes and instructors. Highlights for me were Chris N, Chris J, Kathy B, Mark C, and Steve "what's his name."
7. Mando instructor Don S. should be a fixture at camp every year. He sets the record for friendly, funny and fantastic on the mando. (And this from a
guitar player!)
8. Guitar instructor Mark C. is fantastic about spending time with and jamming with the kampers. His spending time with the kampers is a real high point for many. Class act Mark!

So, I guess it is pretty clear that I had a great time. Right?! Is there
still time to sign up for Kamp 2009?

Tony

Tony Anthonisen

Hello Friends,

In June 2006 I attended Acoustic Kamp for the first time. It was a fantastic week and I am planning to be a regular Kamper in the years ahead. Let me tell you why --

First, it’s just plain fun. It’s like going back to school -- staying in a dorm, eating in a cafeteria, meeting new friends, staying up late and forgetting about your everyday worries for 7 days.

It’s all about the music. From 8 o’clock slow jam through daytime classes and on into evening concerts and late night jamming, you are immersed in music. And of course the music is bluegrass, but not bluegrass to the exclusion of everything else. I heard country and popular and classical and jazz and mixtures and hybrid styles that I can’t even put a name to.

The teachers are great players, but they are also great teachers -- dedicated, accessible and friendly. I learned a lot from them, and also from my fellow Kampers.

You can find classes and jams and activities to suit every level of playing ability from beginner to professional. Nobody is going to feel intimidated or too advanced to participate.

The evening concert series is world class. Those concerts alone are worth the cost of Kamp. And Kamp is an amazing bargain. Think about what you get -- room and board and classes and concerts. They could double the price and it would still be a bargain. (I hope I’m not giving Steve any ideas.)

Steve and Donna and their staff run a fantastic operation, totally professional without being rigid. If something is not going right -- you tell them, and it’s fixed.

Downsides? Yes, I can think of two. (1) There are too many activities to choose from. You have to make tough choices from three or four things all happening at the same time. (2) They put ice cream and donuts and cookies in front of you at every meal, not to mention the pizza. (Ok, so they put apples and oranges in front of you too.)

See you at Kamp. I’ll be the guy with the donut.

Rex Niswander

NY, NY

Steve and Donna,

WHAT A WEEK! I had a great time and cannot stop talking about the week to anyone that will listen. My wife told some folks at church this morning that if they asked me about my week to have enough time to listen to the answer.

I heard about your Kamp from Daryll Hudson who was a first-timer last year. He did not exaggerate. My goal for the week was to learn techniques to get me over the "wall" that I created and to learn one or two items from each class that I attended to apply to my journey. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

The cast of guitar instructors was varied and each had special talent and techniques to offer. I especially appreciatd Jim Nunally and Robin Kessinger's classes. My rhythm has improved from Jim's class and I finally learned to read tab from Robin.

The concerts were, to me, the highlight of the week. It is impossible to explain how great all of the performers were, including Steve. I am humbled by the talent that God has given each of you. I know that long hours were required, but most of us will never be able to do what each of you has accomplished with the instruments of choice. The only suggestion that I can offer is that there be a singing workshop longer than the 45 minutes each day that Trisha conducted. Other than that, the days were adequately filled with instruction.

I will be sending my registration in the mail for 2007. Only 51 weeks to go! Next year I will be there until Sunday morning. I had to get back to Virginia and missed my shot at the drawing for the guitar.

It is also hard to believe that Donna once suffered from stage fright. She is a HOOT!

Again, I had a great time and the Kamp was everything that was advertised.

Mike Hickman

Steve, I had a great time at Kamp. You do a very professional job and I certainly did appreciate it - even if I didn't win the mandolin! Take care,
Carl Yaffey O----'-:: K8NU

Steve:

We just got back last night and am still decompressing. It was great. I am going to put a full report in The Berks County Full Circle Music Society
news letter and hopefully get a few more victims for next year. I can't imagine it being better unless you could go to 37-1/2 hour days and provide
oxygen in the rooms. I had a blast MC'ing Tuesday and with the open mikes on Wednesday and Saturday. Now I just have to master those other 495 fiddle
tunes and Chris's exercises before next year. We will be registering as soon as Kaufman Industries allows me to replenish my bank account! Anyway thanks
again for a great week for both me and Anita. (I'm hoping she will get started on the Mandolin for next year). We should have our first grand child and new future Kamper any time now.

Thanks again to you and Donna and the crew for a great week and see you next
year.

Bill &Anita Jester

From: Anita Hammond
Subject: Re: Recovering Kampaholic

>Kelly Kessler wrote:

Anita, Cindy, Jenny do you ever feel "outmanned" at Kamp or is it more like music-gettogether-as-usual?<

---No, I never felt "outmanned" and no, it wasn't a get together as usual for me, either. I thought we got more attention because of being female. Everyone remembers your name because you stand out in the crowd. There were several other women in my class group, and Dan Crary made a comment that he was glad to see us there to show that not all flatpickers are hairy-armed men, to which I replied "some of us are hairy-armed women". I was never treated as a second-class picker by anyone at Kamp and I was welcomed into jams more there than I am at home.

Anita

This was my 10th Kamp actually 12 Kamps if you count week 1s
I have already called Collings and thanked them for there contribution of the Collings D2H to Kamp. A letter will shortly follow. I can honestly
say that it is one of the finest instruments that I have. Clear bell like tone. Very dark, almost black, IR back and sides, wonderfully aromatic
spruce top. All right, I confess to being a new guitar hole sniffer.

So again, Thank You to Steve and Donna and Collings for making it all possible.
Other equally exciting, but non-material, personal experiences from Kamp.

1. Seeing Rolly Brown get the Kauffy. What a well chosen recipient.
Rolly has added considerably to my knowledge of music and got me started on music theory. Rolly is also a man of considerable character to which I
can personal attest B7 vs D.

2. Jeff Jenkins class on Modes etc. Where the Circle of 5ths finally made sense. Must also credit Larry Cohen, Bass week #1 and Rolly for
priming the pump with the background fundamentals.

3.=09Shortly after my first Kamps it became apparent to me that much above 200 bpm would not be part of my tool box. So I focused on trying to
produce the best possible tone as cleanly as I could. Well I had the opportunity to sit in a jam with Keith Yoder. Later Keith complemented me
on the tone I got playing a break on St. Anne's Reel. It was really nice hear that; especially from someone who had no way of knowing that I had been
working on just that aspect of my playing for years. THANK YOU AGAIN
KEITH.

4. Seeing, talking and jamming with old friends and L-listers.

5. Getting to be a non-responsible care free adult child doing something you like to an extreme. Playing music till your fingers hurt or
the sun comes up without the responsibilities of work ect.

From: Gary Collier
Subject: Kamp report from a newbie's perspective

It's nice to feel like a Kamp veteran after spending last week at my first Kamp! I thought I'd share a few experiences that I had with those of you
who haven't yet been, but have wanted to for a long time, like me. I checked in at "late check-in" around 6:30 on Sun. night, and everything went smoothly. Jo gave me a large envelope with all of the stuff I needed in it - badge, room key, etc. I drove around to Davis Hall, the dorm that I was assigned to, and upon entering I soon found that there are no elevators in it! It's 4 floors high, and I was in room 301. I was in a room with a nice banjo picker from NC, and although we got along well, we didn't cross paths that much during the week, other than the times we were in the room together.

The cafeteria is busy at each meal, and it helps if you know a few folks to sit down with, or else it could be intimidating to a newbie who didn't know anyone. You leave the line with your tray, and the tables are mostly full every time. I soon learned that it didn't really matter, though, and I made a bunch of new friends by "krashing" when I didn't have anywhere else to sit. By the end of the week it's NO problem, but it's a little strange at first for a newbie.

Best classes: Rolly Brown, Jim Nunally, Dan Crary
Rolly: you have a gift as a teacher, my friend. Many of the instructors start playing something to show you, and invisibly switch gears at some point from "teacher" to "performer." Rolly never did. He played a lot of things to show us certain points, but it was never to show off, only to TEACH. I wish now I had "krashed" his class again another time during the week - it was that good!

Jim - he is one of the most unassuming, humble and talented guys that you'll ever meet. I was fortunate to be in his Wed. morning workshop on "band rhythm and dynamics", along with John Reischman and Trish Gagnon and they sang 3 songs for us (talk about a mini-concert!) and their tightness as friends and as a band were evident. Jim's class on Friday was focused on rhythm playing, and in being the glue that holds a group together. Great player, great teacher.

Dan - the man. He's got definite ideas about guitar playing, guitar history and general life philosophy as well. We got all 3 during his class <g>, and his "zen" of learning guitar was great to hear. He's not a believer in tab - it goes from the page to your guitar, and never enters your brain, he said. I also took a master class with him, and he gave me some good tips to work on for smoothness and fluidity.

Steve's class was great as well. He loves them thin .73 plastic picks - and his success backs up that they work well for him. Later that day, Jim
Nunally touted his 1.65 mm (!!) pick.... and they certainly work well for him too!

That's a great example of the Kamp experience. Sometimes the ideas seem to contradict each other, and you have to decide what works best for YOU.

Jeff Jenkins taught a class on music theory, and some folks got off on it. I blew out at intermission, though, because he was so far over my head he
might as well have been flying a F-16 over me!

Some folks love the theory stuff.... others love the "zen" approach.... and others love the "tell me how to practice and do it" approach. Kamp is a
cafeteria approach to teaching, if you think about it.... take what you want, leave what you don't like, but there is something for everybody.

At the end of the first day, I felt a bit overwhelmed. By Tues. afternoon I realized why. Tuesday was 50% easier than Monday, and it's because I was a newbie on Monday. On the first day you're learning.... not just the classes, but also where to go, what to do, the schedule, the routines - EVERYTHING - and it is a bit overwhelming! By Wednesday, I settled into the Kamp routine, and I won't have to go through that next year, but it's part of being a Kamp newbie on the first day for everyone, I suspect.

The food was okay. Nothing great, but no one died either. You walk everywhere, and climb a LOT of stairs. I lost 5 lbs. during the week (hallelujah!), and Jeff Jenkins said he lost 8 lbs. while teaching in his un-air-conditioned room by Thursday morning. I didn't meet one jerk all week. Some folks are naturally more outgoing and friendly than others, but keeping a smile on your face and being cheerful when you greet folks is a great way to open doors and make friends. See that jam over there? You don't know any of them? Just open your case, strap on your guitar, and join in - NO problem!

The burgers at Isaac's are outstanding, and the open mics there at nights were fun, along with hanging out with so many List members there.

Tues. night was a blast. After the concert, I went to Isaac's with Bill Bain. I walked with Dick Daniels to his room afterwards to pick up a
Kalamazoo that I bought from him, and was going to send back to Kansas with Leo Posch to fix up for me. We bumped into Leo on the way, so he joined us.
While sitting there talking, Mario walked in, and for the next hour Dick and I listened to Mario and Leo talk shop and watched them examine each other's guitars and ask questions back and forth. Mario is a great story teller, and we all had a great time. About 1:30, Dick led us all over to Mike and Skip's, so I got to experience the "twisted pair's" room. Leo got his banjo, and the music was flowing (along with a few adult beverages). I never made it back, but it was fun being there, and Mike and Skip are great hosts. Thanks, guys!

I jammed most nights at Carnegie. One of the things I hardly got used to as a newbie is the "wow" factor of being around so many of my musical heroes.
I walked out of the dining hall on Mon. or Tues. after lunch, and Roland White, Butch Baldassari, Bryan Kimsey and another flatpicker were standing there picking tunes. Wow. Tues. night Adam Wright came to me in Carnegie and said "let's pick", and we were joined by Rob Pearcy (he's won multiple local contests) and Joe McColly (he came in second in the Texas flatpicking championship this year) and Warren Knorr (who won the D2h giveaway on Sat.
night - is that 17 or 18 guitars now, Warren? <g>). Wooo boy, I was the caboose on that train, but what fun! Later I jammed with Robin Kessinger, Rolly, Jeff Jenkins, Steve Kilby, Jerry Sutton, and a bunch of other great pickers from Kamp, in different jams and combinations. Fun fun fun! But, it's still mind blowing for a newbie to hang with your musical heroes, 'cause that's not "the norm". Basically, Kamp is total immersion for a week.What's the difference between Kamp and heaven? In heaven, I'll be able to pick, hopefully! :-)

Hope that helps some,

Gary Collier
Atlanta

Mario is a master luthier. His instruments are highly sought after around the world. We are proud that he and Jenny spend time with us in June each year.

From: Mario Proulx <mario@PROULXGUITARS.COM>
Subject: Kamp, from a second year Kamper's view....!

Here I sit, sipping the same old coffee, typing on the same old keyboard, sitting in the same old chair, in the same old home.

It's nice to be home!

But last week, at Kamp, was also nice, in the same familiar way that home feels right now.

By day two this year, I realized what was happening. I now knew where to go, what to do, and how to learn! Our first time at Kamp, we have to learn where the classes are, where the caf is, when to get there, what to do when we get there, etc, etc, etc...

But year two, we know all that stuff! Now, all we need to learn is what the teachers are teaching. Way cool! Yessir, I learned a ton more this year than last, because of the above mentioned phenomena.

Mornings began with a shower right after Jenny would vacate the bathroom, and upon exiting said bathroom myself, I was greeted by fresh coffee (we took down a coffee maker, while Mark Kramer supplied some of the West Coast's finest coffee!), and more often than not, some friends who had begun to gather for the morning treat of real coffee. Mark Kramer and Keith White would for sure be present for the coffee, and the fun would begin! Bill Bain would perhaps drop by, maybe Bob Souza, perhaps Doug Williams would stop by on his way out the door. We never knew who would drop in, but we looked forward to all. Our roommates this year ended up being none other than Josh and Dick Daniels! We had great roommates last year, and we ran across them all week long, as they were still nearby. So far, we're batting 1000 as far as roommates go. Dick would join the racket for coffee shortly after I'd free up the bathroom. Neat routine we had going...

Most days, after supper, we'd gather in our room for more coffee to prime us for the evening, and this often lead to some great laughs and some great impromptu picking. I made the mistake of having coffee one evening, and was, honestly, wired like I haven;t been wired since my teenage years, I never have coffee in the afternoon, much less evening, and Mark's beans were potent. My apologies to everyone who lent me an ear as I talked wayyyyyyyyy too much for the following 6 hours <bg> Played bass in a great outdoor jam that included Keith Yoder, his "girls", Ralph Papile, Gary Roark, Mark Kramer, Mark Kilinski, and some whom I certainly forget. Great jam! Reinforces my thinking that this music belongs outdoors, where the room cannot color the tone.

Thursday afternoon, as Jen and I were walking towards the Kamp store to try to find ice for Bryan's foot, Steve Kaufman runs up to me to ask if
I could do the luthier's workshop! Jim and Bryan were to do a workshop on setup and maintenance, but Jim was late, and Bryan wasn't able to stand up, much less give a workshop. There were somewhere around 30-40 folks waiting in the hottest corner Steve could find, so I jumped-in and tried my best. Kinda hard to pull this off with less than a minute's warning, and no props, not even an instrument, to explain stuff. But I tried to cover the basics of what to look for after an incident, how to measure the action, what to look for in a repair person, as well as tossing in a few tips and tricks to help bail you out when you arrive at a gig and have a last minute issue. Jim Grainger made it down and took the banjo questions, and added his thoughts on stuff as well. We answered questions, looked over some instruments and gave opinions, and an hour later, at least 5 pounds lighter from losing 90% of my bodies after content, we were done! Hope I helped at least a bit. Later, Steve thanked me for jumping-in, and I mentioned that I could bring down some half-built instruments next year to better explain stuff, and he liked the idea, so this may grow from here. If nothing else, a chalk board would have been very handy.... We'll see.....

Next year was going to an 'off' year, but we're already discussing returning once more, again, with my taking mandolin Kamp. Again, we'll see, but if year 2 can be that much better than year 1, 3 can only be super!
Mario

From: Hank Wright
Subject: Post-Kamp Re-entry

Still need another night's sleep to feel back to "normal" (quotes are there for a reason for me). It didn't help that I left Mrvl at 4:45am, arriving home 8 hours later in rain soaked Northern Virginia. My wife reminded me that she was having 20 of her closest friends (soroity alumni) show up at 3pm - and I had agreed to grill the food !!! Ouch! Funny how this did not seem like a big deal pre-kamp and only vaguely could recall this upon my return... kamp obsession does strange things...

Yet another great kamp for me, Big highlights really include all the friends I get to see and play music with just once a year - and the new tunes I learned.

New tunes I learned while there:
East Tennessee Blues - taught in SK's class, included a really good section of double-stops. Thought I knew this one but found out I really didn't, the B part has a hook in it that I missed.

Dry and Dusty - taught in Robin Kessinger's class, this 4 part tune was in FGM a while back but I could not get the timing right on the B part, plus Robin showed us a sock rhythm backup, that is played on the B &D parts only, really cool.

Rebecca - Fellow camper Mark Kramer got me into this Herschel Sizemore tune, and roommate Bruce Lee (the one from Montana) showed me a cool lick to start the A part.

Other tunes that I sort of knew, but now can actually play in a jam: Little Rock Getaway and Ashokan Farewell.
Thanks again to Steve and Donna for another great kamp, see everyone next year.

Regards,

Hank Wright
Potomac Falls, VA

From: Rick Crenshaw
Subject: Just back from my first Kamp

I'm tired and feeling busted after driving all day from Clayton, GA where my son is guiding on the Chattooga River but I just have to chime in here with some quick impressions of my first Kamp.
The people are awesome. I never met a single jerk the entire week. (Of course, that means I might be that guy.)
I will probably become known as the guy with the stupid grin on his face, because that was what I did all week long. What a blast!
I knew that I was not going to be able to keep up picking with the more experienced and talented pickers (and folks, there are PLENTY of them) and I was prepared for that. I did my share of crashing-and-burning but I was pleasantly surprised no one was devastated by crashing and burning but just took it in stride and NO ONE said a word or stopped enjoying the song. ALWAYS the song kept going around and everyone seemed more than happy to stick their neck out once in a while, so the comfort level for new pickers was high - if you are forward enough to just go out and find a jam.
I knew two experienced Kampers, Jim Turpin and Barry Bianchi, so I felt comfortable from day one. They said I was welcome at their place so I spent nearly every waking minute there and there were lots of minutes when I was awake. Jim and Barry got me involved with some very "twisted" people and so I found another place to stay awake and partake in some fine pickin' and socializing. These people made my first Kamp a fantastic experience.
I even got up for an open mike at Isaac's and at the concert. I was definitely swimming in deep water.
It was great meeting people from the list, Skip, Dr. Mikey, Dick Daniels, Tommy Jordan, Biscuit Dave and crew, Keith Yoder, Mario and Jenny, Bryan K.,
Rolly Brown, Keith White, Ted Howard, Gary Collier, Carl Yaffey, and many, many more, but my brain is tired and I already left out and probably offended some one. Or maybe I just offended those who I named... I dunno.
BTW, the kids at the Kamp were awesome! Tommy Jordan, Dick Daniels, Keith Yoder, and more, have some very talented offspring. Don't even ask me about the 3 foot tall banjo playing kid whiz. When he can hit the first four frets he'll be a pro.
All my classes were very on target and helpful. We even managed to end the deedling after Tuesday. The instructors were helpful and happy to talk to you anytime, anywhere, and maybe even jam with you. Imagine walking across campus and having Alan Bibey not only say hello when you greet him, but stop to talk for 5 or 10 minutes. Imagine Emory Lester, Roland White, and Rolly Brown jamming with Kampers in an impromptu jam outside the cafeteria. I heard of instructors, like Butch Baldassari and Carlo Aonzo jamming with Kampers at late evening jams in Carnegie and it was happening all over campus.
The concerts were amazing. What else can I say? Oh, yeah, JP Cormier is now my hero... on many levels.

Go to Kamp.
Thanks everyone who went to KW2. You made my year.
Rick

Date: Mon, 19 Jun 2006 17:05:52 -0400
From: Anita Hammond
Subject: Kamp Report (from Kamp)

Hi to all who are not at Kamp, nyah, nyah I'm here and you're not!

Seriously, it's really wonderful to be able to match faces with many of the names from this list, and to come to my first Kamp with a ready made set of friends to hang with.

I'm squeezing in a few minutes before dinner on the first full day of Kamp. Cindy and I got a great suite on the first floor of Beeson with two other ladies, one banjo and one mando picker. Our room has a pink Hello Kitty doormat to scare away all the hard-core speed demons. We broke it in with a jam that went until 1 am this morning with a gang of about a dozen pickers.

My classes today were with Rolly Brown and J.P. Cormier. I am in the right level-intermediate. It's only the first day and I'm already overwhelmed with new ideas and things to work on. There are so many different activities in the afternoon it was hard to choose, but I decided to take Dick Daniels' bass class and play bass in the Band Scramble. It should be interesting since I have never played a bass in my life. My free choice class will be with Rolly, on fingerpicking and hybrid picking.

Gotta run, it's time for dinner and I have to get there before the line gets too long. The soccer kids are here again.

Anita

Hi, Steve,

Thanks again for a wonderful week! The work that you and Donna put in sure yield some amazing results!

We listened to the Kamp CDs in the car on the way home! Great job! They sound great and the sequence is GREAT! I laughed all the way through Rockin' the Uke! It's hilarious! I hope it wasn't a mixing nightmare!
Have a great week,
"Hi" to Donna and Mark!

XO,

Marcy

This is from Harry Moore. Harry heads up our main scholarship fund for Kamp and does an unbelievable amount of work to see that kids that need help can get to Kamp. Thanks Harry for your tireless efforts.

"It seemed hotter at Kamp than prior years. But there seems to always be a nice breeze in the "breezeway" outside the kamp store, so that's where I settled in. As has been reported, the concerts were fantastic, and the jams that I saw were great. It was really good to see Steve, Donna, and JoEllen - and to hook up with some of the folks that I've met over the years.

Saturday night came around, and I got my moment of stage glory - giving away the DU D-35 and the LXM. The DU D-35 was won by a first week kamper, and since this was the second week - he had already gone home. Ken Buffington won, and when I called the number on the ticket, his wife answered. He was out of the house on an errand or something. So I told her about it and she was suitably impressed, saying "He's always wanted a Martin!". I got the shipping information from her, and on Monday I shipped it off to East Ellijay, Georgia. We then drew a name for the LXM - Cindi Cokely of Charleston, WV - she was sitting down near the front with her son, and sent him up on the stage for the guitar. This was the second time in five years that the winner had been sitting in approximately the same location. Then I told a lame one-liner (no time for a funny story), and got a few chuckles from the audience as I left the stage - another year of the scholarships.

I was pleasantly surprised when Adam Hager won a Big Baby Taylor. Adam was one of the scholarship recipients this year, and I know he will get good use out of the Big Baby. We managed to help several folks this year, a couple with direct DU scholarships from the proceeds of the raffle, and several more through generosity of folks like Bill Whitacre, who couldn't attend and donated his place for a
scholarship. All in all, a good year for the DU efforts.
More later on plans for next year.
Keep pickin'
Harry"

First of all Steve does a great job of providing a camp experience for all levels of players starting with level 1 up through professional experience. For me, this is great. I made a "living" as a guitar player for almost 20 years before "retiring" into another career. The fact that Kamp draws a large mix of players means I feel good about getting on a plane and flying all the way across the country to go jam with people. When I get there, I'm looking forward to finding people
on my level to play with and seeing the friends I've made the two times I've been there. The type of musical experience I crave is one in which I'm "in over my head" enough to push me and one in which all the players are listening and responding in a musical way. In other words, people for whom the physical aspects of playing are long since taken care of and the music is the thing. That means, that there are not so many instruments present that you can't hear anything. So, I admit it, we do often seek out places where we can jam so that we too can "get our money's worth" and go home feeling good about spending the money to go to Kamp. Yes we like to also play with people for the sake of playing music together with others and often participate in the larger, multi-level jams.

You can't begrudge the experienced players from seeking out players at their level that they enjoy playing with. The Kamp is for *all* levels after all.

Mark

Send mail to steve@flatpik.com with questions or comments about this web site. Copyright (c) 2007 Steve Kaufman's Acoustic Kamps Last Modified: Tuesday, March 09, 2010

Send mail to steve@flatpik.com with questions or comments about this web site.
Copyright (c) 2007 Steve Kaufman's Acoustic Kamps
Last Modified: Tuesday, March 09, 2010