Ellen Carlson and Kathy Sommer Zimpfer, photo courtesy of Amanda Kowalski
Wedding Music, Workshops, Special Events, "Fiddling Styles" Program
Weddings, Special Programs
Fiddle or violin. Ellen can provide the feel for your wedding that fits your style. See YouTube videos below of Ellen Carlson and Melissa Bragdon Caron playing Pachebel’s Canon, Lady Be Good, The Butterfly and Cuckoo's Nest. She has also played much of the Bridgerton music at various weddings. All of her bands can also provide an upbeat fun time for your special time.
Workshops and Presentations
With a Masters in Education and 15 years of teaching math, Ellen knows what it means to be accountable for people learning what is taught. Over 50 years of playing fiddle combined with this teaching experience make her a sought-after teacher for workshops and lessons. She has taught at Fiddle Hell in Massachusetts, Grey Fox in New York, Kaufman Kamp in Tennessee, Joe Val, Pemi Valley, and along with Pete and Joan Wernick at the Wernick Jam Camps. She has run her own camp for over 25 years, Fiddleheads Acoustic Jam Camp. Starting the NH Fiddle Ensemble in 2010 she has grown this "orchestra" from 20 to over 120 and is currently the Executive Director of this successful nonprofit. She is a member of the NH State Council on the Arts Teaching Roster.
"Fiddling Styles"
Ellen Carlson and Jim Prendergast's interactive fiddle programs for schools, libraries and other groups.
An interesting and educational program for people of all ages!
Ellen Carlson and Jim Prendergast's presentation explores various fiddling styles and what makes them the same or different. Their presentation includes learning how to hambone, how to do some Canadian foot percussion and perhaps even a dance. Contact Ellen if you want to learn more about bringing this workshop to your school or library.
Feedback
"You are certainly Top Shelf. Folks loved you and we really appreciate you being with us. We will do it again."
Steve Kaufman, award winning guitarist, Director of Kaufman Acoustic Kamps
"I strongly recommend Ellen Carlson. I've worked closely with Ellen many times in the last 10 years, and have high respect for her talents and organizational abilities. We've had many occasions to jam and perform together, and I've seen her teach and have read hundreds of student evaluations of her. The students' praise is fully predictable and of the most enthusiasm imaginable. That's because she is an excellent communicator and knows her stuff, whether teaching fiddle, coaching bluegrass bands, or helping singers work on their harmonies. She's well-organized and concise, which helps keep everyone engaged."
Pete Wernick, banjo player with the acclaimed Hot Rize
"Your teaching and playing at Fiddle Hell were extremely well received! Here are sample comments from our online survey:
Ellen Carlson: just all-around amazing teacher with super organized and clear presentations.
All the workshops I attended with Ellen Carlson were standouts. She is very organized, and a natural teacher.
I continue to think that Ellen Carlson has the magic touch. She knows how to TEACH!"
From Dave Reiner, Fiddle Hell
"Your program is the talk of the town today. What a great night! Also, thank you for going into the schools. The students loved it."
Joann Nichols, President of the Friends of the Lincoln Library
"Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! You are a wonderful fiddler! We loved your music!"
Gail Ferraro, Exeter Public Library
"These situations tend to bring out the best in students and I think you are above and beyond what everyone was imagining."
Brian Winslow, Music Teacher, Union Sanborn School, Tilton
"Ellen's performance demonstrated confidence and joy and was truly engaging!"
Mrs. Karen Chase
Webster School in Manchester, NH