Common Ground Scotland
August 3rd - August 8th, 2008
“Common Ground is about a dream. Not a day dream or a night dream, but a vision, and that dream is so practical and so relevant that it has this magnetic quality to attract us to fulfill it.” Dr. Ira G. Zepp, Jr.
"For my own part, I have been to many Summer Schools and Festivals but have never come away so fulfilled and uplifted by the totality of the experience quite like this one achieved. Tired? Yes! Exhilarated? Without a doubt!" - Willie Slavin
“After one week of whistle classes I can’t believe how much I have improved. Although there were people in the class much better than me, I was able to relax and learn at my own pace – I think I’ve done pretty well!” – Susie Heywood
“Blues night was brilliant! It’s great to see artists who’ve only just met performing together like that. I think that’s part of what makes Common Ground so unique” – Derek Chattelle
Pictures from Common Ground Week, 2007- Click here for Common Ground Week pictures
Common Ground Scotland is a Summer School for The Traditional Arts. It is much more than a series of workshops, or masterclasses, or concerts, or dances, or festival - although it will be all of these and more. Tutors, performers and participants will come from both sides of the Atlantic, giving people the opportunity to learn about their cultures both on their home ground and as visitors from a related tradition - the best of Scottish fiddle music alongside the fiddle Music of Ireland being just one example.
Some people will see Common Ground as a festival, though it will be more relaxed and less pressured than the normal hectic routine of a festival. Others may see it as a real learning opportunity or a source of inspiration for the long winter nights of practice on their instrument. Some may see it as a great holiday with plenty of interesting things on the menu. Others will see it as a place to make friendships that span national and cultural divides. However you view it, it will be an opportunity to meet people with similar interests and to share a wonderful week where music and the arts will be the 'Common Ground'.
Each day is filled with a variety of workshops, masterclasses, jamming sessions, performances and social activities. The structure provides a flexibility which allows participants to pick and choose what they want to learn. From beginners whistle to a masterclass in guitar, there is something for everyone of all ages and levels of experience. Underpinning the whole arts experience is an ethos which encourages discussion and dialogue on issues relevant to our art and our culture. Common Ground is unique, and we encourage you to come and see for yourself what we have to offer.
Registration is on Sunday afternoon. In the evening there will be a 'Welcome Session' a relaxed event and a chance to get to know your tutors and familiarise yourself with the facilities of Glaisnock.
Classes start at 9.15 on Monday morning and finish on Friday afternoon. There will be a concert on Thursday evening when staff and students will perform. There will be a programme of evening activities and various social activities throughout the week.
Common Ground Weekend
8th August - 10th August, 2008
In previous years we have had a relaxing 'festival weekend' at the end of the Common Ground workshop week. Because of our change of venue we currently have no firm plans for a festival weekend this year. We do however anticipate making many new relationships in the area and may still have 'an activity weekend' for those participants of Common Ground who want to extend their stay in the area. More information on Common Ground Festival Weekend |
