We’re gearing up for a very busy summer here at Cordell Hull Birthplace. In May we’ve got a number of unique programs we’re looking forward to:
Wednesdays at 4pm – Five Buck Fiddle Club Group Lesson
Our club continues to make progress learning tunes from America, Scotland and Ireland. If you’d like to join us but have no experience, we’ll schedule you a series of starter lessons to get you caught up. Each participant progresses at their own pace as we work through traditional tunes and techniques. New learners (12 and older) are welcome at any time. For more information, contact Park Ranger Marcianne O’Day at 931-200-9597 or by email at marcianne.oday@tn.gov
Saturday May 4th 9:30AM- Stitch Clinic: Hand-Sewing from the Very Beginning I
In this 2 1/2 hour hands-on workshop, we’ll introduce you to the technical details of hand-sewing, so you will be able to apply these skills to your own sewing projects. Bring your own kit if you have one already, but if not, we’ll have extra items on hand for you to use during the workshop. $15 Per Person, advance registration required via www.tnstateparks.com
Saturday, May 4th 1pm- Speaker Series with Dr. Michael Birdwell: There’s a Lot of Nourishment in an Acre of Corn
For our May speaker series event, Dr. Michael Birdwell, of Tennessee Tech will present his latest research on the history of moonshine in the Upper Cumberland.
Sunday, May 5th – Kid’s Programs
1pm: Paper Mache Flowers
2pm: Origami Boats
3pm: Tissue Paper Rainbows
Saturday, May 25th – Sing & String Heritage Music Day
9:00am: Appalachian Lap Dulcimer workshop
The lap dulcimer is the perfect instrument for anyone interested in heritage music. Our workshop, taught by guest instructor rhodyjane meadows, will provide a complete introduction. A limited number of instruments are available for use during the workshop or the park can help you purchase an inexpensive starter instrument. Contact Park Ranger Marcianne O’Day for more details (931-200-9597, Marcianne.Oday@tn.gov). Workshop fee is $25 per person.
2:00pm: Shape Note Singing with rhodyjane meadows
Shape notes are an old form of music notation designed to teach 4-part sacred harmony to those who don’t know how to read printed music. The tradition took hold in the American South in the 1800’s and has remained strong in many areas. Our guest instructor rhodyjane meadows will teach the method to our group and we’ll spend some time raising our voices in song. This is suitable for singers of any abilities or no ability & no previous experience is required, just the desire to make a joyful noise. For more information, contact Park Ranger Marcianne O’Day (931-200-9597, Marcianne.Oday@tn.gov). This is a no-cost workshop just intended to teach the tradition and enjoy singing together.
As always, visit our park’s facebook page or tnstateparks.com for registration details, or contact the park for more information at 931-864-3247. We’d love to see you and your family at the park!