In keeping with the virtual demands of our modern times, EEFC is excited to sponsor a changing selection of live online class series, taught by our beloved workshop teachers, as well as one-off special events and movie screenings. All classes and events are held on Zoom and require one-time pre-registration. Zoom meeting information will be provided to registrants before each class (see FAQs below).
Unless otherwise noted, each 4-week course costs $50, or $15 per class. We also offer low-income tuition choices as well as a Pay It Forward option in case you have the means to throw in a little extra to keep our online programs thriving. See each series’ registration form for details.
Not the right time to join a class? Consider a donation of any size to EEFC to help keep our programs running. Thank you!
Join Filip direct from Veles for an exhilarating journey through the vibrant culture and rich dance heritage of Macedonia. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or new to the world of traditional dance, this class offers an immersive experience that celebrates the diversity of Macedonian folk dances. These classes are tailored to accommodate dancers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Led by an experienced instructor deeply rooted in Macedonian dance culture, each session will delve into the history, significance, and techniques of each dance.
Saturdays, March 2 and 9, 2024 — 10:00 – 11:15 a.m. Pacific, 11:00 a.m. Mountain, noon Central, 1:00 p.m. Eastern / March 16 and 23, 2024 — 11:00 – 12:15 Pacific, noon Mountain, 1:00 p.m. Central, 2:00 p.m. Eastern (note mid-course time change is due to U.S. Daylight Savings Time)
Register here, at least 2 hours before the first class time. We offer a sliding-scale set of fees. See the registration form for full info.
There is a crucial meaning in the distinction of musical dialects in Macedonian traditional music and the performance of different styles. We will become acquainted with different musical dialects and their ornamentation through four to five pieces from the 60’s and 70’s, as performed by clarinetist Tale Ognenovski; from the city style characterized by a la turka and a la franka, to the use of the saxophone in Eastern Macedonia. We will build each basic melody step by step, incorporating elements of ornamentation. This course, coming to you direct from Veles, will be adapted to beginner as well as advanced students.
Sundays, March 3, 2024 — 10:00 – 11:15 a.m. Pacific, 11:00 a.m. Mountain, noon Central, 1:00 p.m. Eastern / March 10, 17, and 24, 2024 — 11:00 – 12:15 Pacific, noon Mountain, 1:00 p.m. Central, 2:00 p.m. Eastern (note mid-course time change is due to U.S. Daylight Savings Time)
Register here, at least 2 hours before the first class time. We offer a sliding-scale set of fees. See the registration form for full info.
Peter is offering a rare opportunity to share his extensive knowledge and experience learned from older-generation Bulgarian kaba gajda masters. He will take a deep dive into history, popular melodies, technique, and ornamentation. This class is targeted to intermediate and advanced players. Students should be familiar with the instrument and should be able to play by ear. Beginner gajda players and other instrumentalists are welcome to attend and observe the class. Schedule allowing, Peter will be available for private instruction outside of class.
Tuesdays, April 2, 9, 16, and 23, 2024 – 5:00 – 6:15 p.m. Pacific, 6:00 p.m. Mountain, 7:00 p.m. Central, 8:00 p.m. Eastern
Register here at least 2 hours before the first class time. We offer a sliding-scale set of fees. See the registration form for full info.
The “how” of Balkan folk singing… We start with learning the notes and the lyrics of a song—the “what.”
The next step is to explore the “how”—the mechanics that enable us to sing in the style(s) with ease, freedom, and full expressiveness. In this lab we will experiment with breath, placement, ornaments, vowels, the anatomy and physiology of our instrument, and any other areas of interest that come up! All levels of singers are welcome. Let’s take a deep dive into sound production!
Wednesdays, April 3, 10, 17, and 24, 2024 – 5:00 – 6:15 p.m. Pacific, 6:00 p.m. Mountain, 7:00 p.m. Central, 8:00 p.m. Eastern
Register here at least 2 hours before the first class time. We offer a sliding-scale set of fees. See the registration form for full info.
The style of playing from Gyimes is unique, featuring a beautiful flowing rhythm, usually accompanied by the gardon (also called ütőgardon), a sort of percussive cello, while the violin imitates a bagpipe-like sound, which is attained by a specific bowing technique (which sounds harder than it looks!). Csenge will teach about six songs in the style, enough for a whole jam/dance session. This class is designed for intermediate/advanced-level players.
Thursdays, April 4, 11, 18, and 25, 2024 – 5:00 – 6:15 p.m. Pacific, 6:00 p.m. Mountain, 7:00 p.m. Central, 8:00 p.m. Eastern
Register here at least 2 hours before the first class time. We offer a sliding-scale set of fees. See the registration form for full info.
When will I receive the Zoom link?
To maintain cybersecurity, a new Zoom meeting number and password will be sent each week at least two hours before each class starts. Please begin to sign into the meeting no earlier than 15 minutes before our start time. A moderator will be available to assist you. If there is a sound/lighting check with the teacher in progress, please wait until we’re finished to unmute and begin your greetings and salutations!