Following in the footsteps of Umphrey’s McGee with their sUMmer school sessions, Dweezil Zappa’s Camp Dweezilla and Butch Trucks of the Allman Brothers Band leading Roots Rock Revival Camp with members of North Mississippi Allstars, quintessential Grateful Dead tribute act the Dark Star Orchestra have just announced “DSO High School” which like the others will take place at The Full Moon Resort in Big Indian, New York. DSO High School is set for August 5 – 8.
At the four-day event, the members of Dark Star Orchestra will present an exclusive curriculum with workshops, activities, lessons in addition to three DSO performances. The band will also bring along famed recording engineer Betty Cantor-Jackson, former GD member Donna-Jean Godchaux and Grateful Dead Hour host and musician David Gans to participate in their camp.
Here’s a look at the curriculum as announced today…
History Classes
- Touring with the Dead… Join our guest speaker Donna Jean Godchaux to hear stories of playing and touring with the Grateful Dead during her years with the band from 1972-1979.
- Grateful Dead Pianists… Go in depth with Rob Barraco on the various piano styles of Ron “Pigpen” McKernan, Tom Constantine, Keith Godchaux, Brent Mydland, Bruce Hornsby and Vince Welnick.
- Tapers 101… An in-depth listening session with Grateful Dead recording engineer Betty Cantor-Jackson, with archivist and DSO member Rob Eaton. Never before heard master-reels will be played and discussed. A must-attend session for all tapers!
- Radio Radio… join our guest David Gans, host of the nationally syndicated Grateful Dead Hour and co-host of “Tales from the Golden Road” with Gary Lambert on Sirius-XM.
Music Lessons
- Drums… a multi-part session lead by DSO drummers Rob Koritz and Dino English exploring double drum techniques, the many electronics of “drums and space” performed by the Grateful Dead. Workshops/private lessons each day and drum circles each night!
- Play like Jerry and Bobby… Jam with Rob Eaton and Jeff Mattson. Learn techniques, sounds, and secrets of these two guitarists who have spent years mastering the styles of the pros. For all levels of guitar enthusiasts and aspiring band leaders.
- Harmonize It… with lead singers Donna Jean Godchaux, Lisa Mackey, Rob Barraco, Rob Eaton and Jeff Mattson… you too can learn the harmonies and songs of the Dead in a class just for singers and song lovers.
- Pigpen Raps… Keyboardist Rob Barraco goes inside with Pigpen the player and poet.
Song School
- … an interactive session with David Gans and DSO members playing the songs you love!
Trade School
- Roadie 101 and beyond… If you’ve ever wanted to run away with a rock band and be a roadie… this three day “hands-on” classroom experience is for you! All aspects of setting up the stage, handling gear, drum set-ups, microphone placement and more. You’ll work with the DSO crew each day setting up, packing and moving professional equipment while learning and having fun all at the same time!
- Recording and Mixing… An in-depth session with Betty Cantor-Jackson and Rob Eaton focusing on recording, mixing and miking techniques in both live and studio applications.
- Sound and Lights… with DSO engineers Cotter Michaels, Will Popp and Brian Adcock, learn professional sound and lighting techniques and how DSO brings a concert to life. Workshops and one-on-one time with DSO engineers will be offered.
- Pro Tools and Music Production… with Dino English. Learn to set-up your own home studio!
Gym Class
- Workout…Start each morning with stretching, yoga and hike with Lisa Mackey.
- Frisbee Fun… did you know DSO sound engineer Cotter Michaels is also a Frisbee champion? Don’t miss an afternoon in the sun tossing the disc with members of DSO and fellow classmates!
- Nature Hikes… Full Moon Resort has miles of beautiful trails through the Catskill Mountains and back… not to be missed during your stay!
You can sign up for a variety of different DSO High School packages HERE.
