Roots of Rock
August 3-6, 2008
Fort Worden State Park
Port Townsend, WA
A rockin' intensive with special guest Wanda Jackson, the "First Lady of Rock", the Queen of "Rock & Roll," "The Rockabilly Filly."
Rock & Roll was the first form of truly American music that broke down racial barriers, crossed cultures and caused America’s youth to rise up out of their segregated seating sections at concerts and dance in aisles together - at a time when integration was illegal.
At Roots of Rock you will learn about the genesis of this music, how it grew out of the social context of the late 50s, and most of all learn how to play it!
In addition to individual instrument sessions, bands formed during the workshop will back up Wanda Jackson at a culminating public concert dance. We'll have a house drummer on hand to play with each band.
All musicians are welcome, but note that specific instrumental tracks will only be offered for guitar, bass, keyboards, and vocals.
Cost: $595, includes tuition, housing, and some seriously good food.
THE FACULTY
Featured Guest, Wanda Jackson
A native of Oklahoma, Wanda's talents were discovered by another great entertainer from the southwest, Hank Thompson. In her early years, Wanda worked with another young entertainer that was just getting started by the name of Elvis Presley. Elvis encouraged Wanda to try her hand at Rock & Roll. She did in 1956, and in fact became America's first female rock & roll singer.
PIANO/KEYBOARDS
Daryl Davis, one of America’s most intriguing musicians, leads Roots of Rock this year. Daryl Davis earned his Bachelor of Music Degree from Howard University in Washington, DC and went on to work with such legendary artists as Chuck Berry (Daryl is Chuck's musical director), the Jordanaires, Muddy Waters’ Legendary Blues Band, The Coasters, and Bo Diddley to name a few.
GUITAR
From Kensington, Maryland, Keith Grimes is an extraordinary guitar player. In 40-plus years he has mastered all styles – rock, country, R and B, blues, and jazz – honing his chops while playing with such luminaries as Chuck Berry and most recently, Eva Cassidy.
ELECTRIC BASS
Eduardo "Cha Cha Mundo" Garcia-Maynez was born in the United States but was raised in Mexico. At the age of 12, Cha Cha began studying under the tutelage of Javier Flores and Roberto Aymes, two of the country's most respected bass players. By the age of 15, he was playing the club circuit in Mexico. During his 28 years as a bass player, he has played with Mexico's premier Rock band the legendary Dug-Dug's, and Help, Mexico's #1 Beatles Tribute Band.
