Camping with Banjos?
Michigan hosts a banjo camp extravaganza!

This article ran in the Summer 2005 Issue of the Bluegrass Journal

Written by Sherri Chekal• All Rights Reserved by the Author, July 2005
Reprint Rights Available by Contacting the Author or The Bluegrass Journal Editor

Camping with Banjos? Michigan hosts a banjo camp extravaganza! At first thought, having over 150 banjo players gathered together in one confined space for a weekend of picking and strumming can easily conjure up stereotypical humorous jokes and cartoons of musical torture. However, when 17 of those are considered masters of the instrument and the remainder diehard aficionados of their beloved instrument, itÕs far from a joke, itÕs a remarkable opportunity to immerse yourself in banjos, banjos and more banjos!

The Midwest Banjo Camp, a first ever gathering in the state of Michigan, took place June 3-5, 2005 at the campus of Michigan State University in Lansing. Sponsored by Elderly Instruments and coordinated by veteran banjo camper, Ron Perlman, the camp was quite a success. Over 140 students arrived, with a near equal mixture of bluegrass and clawhammer enthusiasts and the air tingled with excitement, eagerness and the sounds of pickinÕ, strumminÕ and of course, tuning, throughout the building. It was a feast of banjos to look upon; every type, model and style represented. 17 well known instructors brought a multiple assortment of musical talents. Some of the accomplished players included Alan Munde, Bill Keith, Bill Evans, Danny Barnes, Mac Benford, Michael J. Miles and the Grammy nominated, folk icon, himself, Mike Seeger.

The weekend was designed with various classes throughout the day, time to jam and learn with fellow campers and a faculty concert to showcase the instructors. There was a display and sales room set up with banjos to test-pick, magazines, recordings and tab books galore. You could even participate in a few auctions for really great prizes. Ron Perlman is definitely an expert at organizing and coordinating these camps. He has been responsible for many camps throughout the United States and his assistance made the experience smooth and enjoyable for all attending.

Clint Standley, a middle school student from Mason, Michigan, received a scholarship to attend the camp award from the Elyce Fishman Scholarship of the Wheatland Music Organization. It was an honor to meet this young man whom had been playing bluegrass banjo for 3 years and has aspirations to continue in the music. He already has been performing with his brother Jesse and a close friend, Ian Leavey at the local coffeehouse.

Stan Werbin, of Elderly Instruments, graciously allowed Tri-State Bluegrass Journal a chance to attend the camp and sit in on a class or two. His involvement in the camp as a director helped to assure success. His staff was helpful and professional and kept the campers informed and cheerful, making the visit pleasant.

It was very encouraging to see students of all skill levels, ages and styles coming together to enjoy the banjo, swap licks and tales and generally be ÒoneÓ with the instrument! If this is something that youÕd like to experience, you can check out their website at: www. MidwestBanjoCamp.com for next yearÕs schedule and dates.