Fiddleheads

Fiddleheads is an eclectic group of traditional music learning opportunities where young musicians learn from experts in the field. Through one off workshops, semester long sessions, or performance-focused rehearsals and events, there are many opportunities for beginner to advanced young artists to develop their skills in a welcoming and supportive learning community.

Fiddleheads originated as a program of Young Tradition Vermont. Learn more about YTV here.

Fiddleheads with Pascal Gemme

  • Don’t be fooled by the name, Fiddleheads is not just for fiddles! Fiddlehead sessions state in their description what instruments and skill level they are intended for. Fiddlers are in the majority at the sessions, but those who play harp, cello, banjo, mandolin, whistle, pipes and more have also been involved. We also occasionally have instrument-specific workshops. Some sessions also incorporate or are geared towards accompaniment-oriented instruments such as guitar and keyboard.

  • Fiddleheads pricing varies and will be listed in the individual descriptions of each program. We offer sliding scale and scholarship options to make sure all who are interested are able to participate.

  • Depending on the type of Fiddleheads experience, sessions run from one to two hours and typically happen on the weekends. While some Fiddleheads experiences are one-off workshops, others consist of 2-3 sessions, and some run for 6 or more sessions over the course of a few months “semester.”

  • Tunes are taught by ear. Sheet music is occasionally provided by the group leader.

    Fiddleheads programming aims to provide experiences for all skill levels. Every Fiddleheads experience will list an age and skill level range that it is appropriate for.

  • Bring your instrument and a tuning device if you use one. You may also bring a recording device, like your phone, if you would like to.

  • Every Fiddleheads experience has a registration form which allows you to sign up and pay for the session. If you know you want to participate, please sign up early! It helps program facilitators know that there will be enough students to make the program viable to run. Thank you for signing up early!

Fiddleheads Spring 2024 Programming

There are two Spring 2024 fiddleheads programs currently underway: a Fiddleheads Semester in South Burlington, with Sarah King, and the Fiddleheads Spring Ensemble in Brattleboro, with Laurel Swift.

Check back throughout the summer for listings of our fall programming.

Join the YTV Mailing List to learn about upcoming Fiddleheads workshops, semester programs, and performances!