Open to any amateur or semi-professional musician or composer, you will use the acoustic instrument of your choice to develop ways to channel the natural soundscapes of Point Reyes., and discover how to express the unique sounds and moods of natural environments into the writing or performing of your own music.

Through specific practical exercises and a discussion of general musical themes and forms we will begin to understand how they can be used to evoke the natural world. Then, using your acoustic instrument, we will break into individual locations for personal songwriting/composing/improvising work using these ideas to create music that fits in with the style and and level most appropriate for the individual musician.

We will gather together at regular intervals as a group to discuss progress, answer questions and trade ideas. In the last hour we will regroup to hear voluntary performances of the music and discuss the process and ideas learned.

Note: Amateur includes those with just a rudimentary background on their instrument.

David Boye is a musician and educator from Nebraska. He performs an eclectic variety of music. His focus in recent years is instrumental guitar music composed through the National Park Artist In Residence program. His music incorporates natural recordings and alternative tunings that evokes the wonder of the natural world.

Fee Waivers Available (limited number). Please email fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org for more information.

Details

-We will be meeting at the Red Barn Classroom in Bear Valley, Point Reyes

– Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in

– Refunds available for all classes 7 days in advance of the start date, after 7 days and before 2 days, participants can credit their class for a future date. All requests before 48 hours in advance will be declined. For COVID cancellation policy, see below.

– Please follow the parking instructions for the facility used that day

– Please provide an email you check regularly for updates and reminders about your class

– Registration is required online prior to the event in order to maintain class sizes

– Sales end 48 hours before the start date.

– Waitlists are available when the class sells out

What to Bring

The acoustic instrument of your choice

An iPad or electronic device with a simple recording capability

Day Pack

Lunch

Warm Variable Weather Clothing

Hiking Shoes

Water Bottle

Notebook and Pen/Field Journal

Eventbrite Confirmation Email

Binoculars (Optional)

Camera (Optional)

About the PRNSA Field Institute

The PRNSA Field Institute offers hands-on environmental education classes throughout the year that foster enjoyment of Point Reyes National Seashore. Our classes are led by expert instructors, who take you out of your everyday life and into the natural world. We host a variety of classes about the arts and sciences and have something for everyone. You can reach the Field Institute at (415) 663-1200 x304 or by email at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

Interested in becoming a member of PRNSA? Click Here!

Interested in becoming a PRNSA Field Institute volunteer facilitator, or are you an outdoor educator or artist who would like to teach a PRNSA Field Institute class? Send an Email!

For any questions, please email us at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

COVID-19 Field Institute Guidelines

In accordance with Marin County guidelines for public health and safety, we ask all participants to respect the following COVID-19 procedures:

• Perform a health self-check before coming to class using the CDC Symptoms of Coronavirus as a guide

• Do not attend class if you are experiencing COVID symptoms, suspect you have been exposed to the virus, or are suffering from any other flu-like or respiratory illness

• Participants exhibiting signs of respiratory illness may be asked to leave class

• Masks are optional but are strongly recommended when indoors or if gathered closely outside

• Please bring your own food and water

NOTE: Refund policy exceptions will be made for participants cancelling last minute due to COVID-19 infection or symptoms. Please contact us in this case.

Thank you for your cooperation in following these guidelines to help keep everyone safe.