by Pete Wernick What an honor for Hot Rize to be inducted into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame! Since 1978, the band has been a major part of my life’s work as a musician, writer, producer, and teacher. I feel fortunate beyond words for the partnership that Tim, Nick, Charles, ... Read More| Wernick Method
Banjo picker writes: Question for you about jams. If I am leading a song, an instrumental, and no one else knows or wants to take a break on it, what do you think is a reasonable number of times to run through it without hogging too much of the floor. ... Read More| Wernick Method
Patrick writes: I picked up a copy of your jam etiquette flyer. Enjoy your tips a lot – Something is really bugging me though. I’ve been playing about 4 years, and I am fairly serious about it – I’m probably somewhere around advanced – not sure. Anyway, the monthly jam ... Read More| Wernick Method
need to think about a good tag for this one, and featured image Mike in Brooklyn writes: I have the opportunity to start up a jam in a local restaurant – they are very supportive and will help publicize etc. I’ve never done this before and wonder if your team ... Read More| Wernick Method
Philippe in France writes: hello! Would you recommend a songbook including vocal harmonies (at least 2 voices), covering the most popular songs of your repertoire? Which one ? It would allow me to sing with my wife (I am 70 years, looking for quite quick opportunities). So far, I could not identify such one, ... Read More| Wernick Method
Jim in Tuscon writes: Hi Doc! I listened to your interview on BU today. You mentioned you have a course on teaching vocals. I’ve been unable to locate it on your site. Would you send me information regarding purchasing this product. This could save my marriage. 🤣 Thank you sir. Jim, Best I can guess, I was probably referencing “Learning to Sing in Tune“, a popular article on my site. Please note, the instructions are not to the student but to the teacher, and it’s about how to help...| Wernick Method
Cynthia in Connecticut writes: Just looking for more opportunities to learn more banjo playing skills and to play with other banjo players. How can you connect with others? Zoom? DVD’s? When and where are your classes/jams? Been playing for 4 years with absolutely no previous music experience. Still so much to learn! Have a ... Read More| Wernick Method
Matt from Boulder, CO writes: Thanks for your promotion of the closet pickers. Everything that you are trying to accomplish is much needed and right on the mark. My son, Gabe, is 9 and has been taking mandolin lessons in Boulder for coming on 3 years now. After Rockygrass this ... Read More| Wernick Method
Joe from Indiana writes: I have started going to some jams, and have a problem when it’s my turn to sing. I know the best keys for my songs. Some are easier for me to sing in, say, B flat, but some people can’t play in that key and don’t ... Read More| Wernick Method
I’ve been a private music instructor for 15 years, teaching adults and children. Phrases I hear all the time include “Kids are faster learners than adults,” “Kids brains are like sponges” and “I wish I would have started when I was their age!” while pointing at a small child. And “I’m too old to be any good.” [Pictured left: young students (including Tray Wellington) at Pete’s MerleFest bluegrass jam camp, 2018] “I wish I had started playing as a kid since I really ...| Wernick Method
Calling All Pickers! You'll be sent student materials as soon as you register. Learn to jam with people like you Hands-on instruction: rhythm, lead, harmony singing Learn standard bluegrass repertoire and etiquette Friendly, encouraging, knowledgeable teaching Intermediates welcome, given extra challenges Only requirement: play G, C, D, A chords (or matching notes on fiddle or bass| Wernick Method