Richard Thompson’s Frets And Refrains

Richard Thompson is leading his own edition of the Music Master Camp Series, sharing his expertise on the guitar and songwriting up in the Catskill Mountains this July.

“Frets And Refrains Acoustic Guitar And Songwriting Camp” is set for July 16-20 in Big Indian, N.Y., at the Full Moon Resort.

The British guitarist/songwriter will lead master guitar classes in addition to courses in songwriting with his son Teddy Thompson. The camp also offers acoustic guitar classes by Martin Simpson, singing lessons from Sloan Wainwright, and sound production workshops from Simon Tassano.

“This is very much my dream teaching event,” Thompson said. “The setting is beautiful, our teachers are the best, and I expect this to be an intimate an rewarding experience for all participants. Myself, Martin Simpson, Teddy Thompson and Sloan Wainwright will be in attendance throughout, answering questions and being as ‘hands-on’ as possible.

“Whether you are a guitarist, singer, songwriter or any combination of these, we will offer ways to improve, rethink and enhance your playing, composing and performing skill.”

Photo: John Davisson
Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, Calif.

The classes will be offered in both large and small groups, along with workshops, seminars and performances.

The grounds at Full Moon Resort feature one hundred acres of meadows, forests and streams. Campers won’t be distracted by incoming calls or emails during their five days in the mountains because there is no cell phone reception in Big Indian. That means more time for jam sessions, hikes, swimming and camp activities.    

The all-inclusive retreat package includes four nights lodging and all meals. Accommodations are offered at the Full Moon Resort and the nearby Alpine Inn and Slide Mountain Forest House. Packages range from $999 tent camping to $2,430 single occupancy with private bath at Alpine/Slide Mountain. Fans won’t want to wait to register because most of the accommodation options at Full Moon are already sold out.

Thompson has earned numerous awards and accolades over his prolific career including BBC’s Lifetime Achievement Award, a spot on Rolling Stone’s Top 20 Guitarists Of All Time list, the Mojo Les Paul Award, the Orville H Gibson Award (guitar), and an Ivor NovelloAward (songwriting). Last year he was named on the Queen’s 2011 New Year Honours List as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire.

In addition to his 25+ years as a solo artist, Thompson was a founding member of the British band Fairport Convention and one-half of folk-rock duo Richard and Linda Thompson. He has released 40 albums and numerous film soundtracks, and his work been recorded by the likes of Robert Plant, R.E.M., Elvis Costello, Los Lobos and Bonnie Raitt.

For more information visit FretsAndRefrains.com.

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