Mandolin | Danny Knicely | All Levels | Period 3 | Week 3 (July 20-25, 2025)
We’ll learn the melody to a few tunes, as well as a variety of ways to play the chords and accompaniment in different situations. We will also explore how the mandolin plays counterpoint parts in an old-time ensemble and will work on the feel and boom-ditty of the right hand to create the rhythmic shuffle that drives the music. This class will be taught by ear. Students are welcome to take notes and bring small recording devices.
About the Instructor
Danny Knicely comes from a musical family steeped in a mountain music tradition for generations. He first learned music from his grandfather, A.O. Knicely, who played dances and social events in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia beginning in the 1930’s. Danny has used his roots in old-time and bluegrass to explore various types of music from around the world. Danny has won many awards for his mandolin, guitar, fiddle and flat-foot dance expertise, including first place in the mandolin contest at the prestigious Telluride Bluegrass Festival. His masterful mandolinistry and original compositions can be heard on his debut recording “Roots and Branches” and his colorful, versatile, acoustic guitar picking can be heard on his “Waltz for Aimee” album.