I played my first full old time dance at the age of 14 in Miami, Manitoba. I had my own band called “Patti & the Harmonies” which consisted of Yvette Audette (Carriere) on piano, Andy Roussin on guitar and vocals, and Andy's son Danny on drums. We all wore red and black and were looking SHARP.
Andy was a school bus driver and unbeknownst to me, managed to fill a school bus with dancers and take them to the small town dance hall that night. Not only that, but many had made signs to cheer me on saying things like, “Patti's Fan Club," and “We Love You Patti.” I was truly humbled and excited to play my first big dance.
The night was a success and there have been many more dance halls visited since then. To me, playing for dancing is a treat, a chance to pick random tunes and cater to those on the floor. It's something that's done on the fly and you need the ability to pivot and make changes with little or no notice. Faster, slower, a request made…we fly by the seat of our pants and it's exhilarating.
In this workshop series I will provide you with some great dance tunes to learn as well as teach you how to play them with the “feel” that is needed to have a successful dance.
Dates: Sunday April 7, 14, 21, 28 - 2PM CDT
Cost: $100 for all 4; $30 drop in rate
Classes will be done via Zoom and recorded. If you cannot make a class, you will receive a link to the recording.
Sheet music and piano back up tracks will be provided. When registering, you will be asked to indicate your method of payment. If you choose to pay via e-transfer, please send to: pattikusturok@gmail.com
Minimum enrollment required.
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