LowCountry Bluegrass Academy Student Demonstration
This year we will again feature a Bluegrass Music student demonstration. In an effort to encourage younger folks’ interest in Bluegrass music, this has become a part of our program.
The students that play this year are students of "Chip" Chipman of the LowCountry Bluegrass Academy in Monck's Corner, South Carolina.
Born and raised in Kentucky, Chip has been playing Bluegrass music for over 40 years. At the age of nine he was introduced to guitar by his older brother, Eddie. By the age of 10, it had become his passion. Chip has played with some of the best in Bluegrass music.
Chip teaches an average of 60 to 65 students weekly. He teaches his students to play by ear and has developed an easy method for his students to learn from.This applies to the string instrument of their choice: banjo, fiddle, mandolin, guitar or bass. For those not inclined to play Bluegrass, Chip also teaches country, gospel and rock. Lessons are offered six days a week, Monday through Saturday. Each lesson is one hour in length with one-on-one instruction. Within 3 to 6 months students are playing and singing several tunes. The students at the LowCountry Bluegrass Academy range from 5 to 75.
The LowCountry Bluegrass Academy sponsors several events annually featuring the students and their talents at various churches and nursing homes.
On the first Saturday in October they will be featured at the 9th annual bluegrass festival at the Santee Canal State Park in Monck's Corner.
Who knows, the next premier Musician in Bluegrass Music just might be playing on the stage at this year’s Bluegrass on the Waccamaw.
I have a story that I told last year about a young man who started out taking violin lessons and went on to play with Bill Monroe (The Master of Bluegrass). Perhaps I will tell it again this year
In keeping with the tradition of family values at Bluegrass on the Waccamaw, please make welcome and enjoy The LowCountry Bluegrass Academy Student Demonstration
Thanks, Jennings Chestnut, Sr.