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COLUMN: Bluegrass musicians gather at festival

There are workshops and jam sessions galore to help you up your musical game.
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It’s my favourite time of year in Summerland. That time of year when acoustic musicians grab their instruments, tune up their voices and head down to the Summerland Rodeo Grounds.

Yes, that’s right. It’s time for the Summerland Bluegrass Festival, which runs from June 9 to 11.

This annual festival takes place every year and celebrates everything bluegrass.

The best part about this festival is that it’s a very hands-on festival. You don’t have to just sit around all day and listen to the great music that is being played, although you can if you want to. There are workshops and jam sessions galore to help you up your musical game, whether you play guitar, banjo or even mandolin.

This is a great opportunity to take in a bit of music and to learn a lot more.

The event costs $10 a day at the gate, $20 for the whole weekend, and camping is available on site, as well.

If you want more information about the event, you can find it online at www.summerlandbluegrass.com.

If you’re a local artist who’s looking to gain a bit more of a presence in the community, then you’re in luck. The Bead Trails Store, that wonderful little store on Victoria Road North, is looking for artists to host workshops and classes in-store.

This is a great opportunity for anyone who has ever wanted to pass on any fun little tips, tricks or stylistic advice you might have to other creative types.

Classes like these tend to be a lot of fun to teach because you’re helping someone find their passion and hone their skills.

The Bead Trails Store is also looking for artists who are interested in being the Artist of the Month.

Not only that, but they also stock the work of local writers in their store. So, if you’re a local writer or a local artist and you’d like to find out a little bit more about the opportunities that can be found at the Bead Trails Store, you can contact them via email at info@beadtrails.com or visit the store at 13207 Victoria Road North.

Douglas Paton is a Summerland writer and musician. If you know of a local arts and culture event, contact him at dgpaton80@gmail.com.