Join Us for a Fun-Filled Musical Adventure at Fiddles in the Forest!

Calling all middle and high school string students! Spend an unforgettable weekend at the Ashokan Center where music, nature, and community come together in a safe, inspiring environment. Fiddles in the Forest offers top-notch string instruction paired with singing, dancing, nature hikes, and hands-on crafts that spark creativity and connection.

Students will learn fiddle tunes by ear on violin, viola, cello, and bass, while exploring body percussion, harmony singing, and fun folk dances that anyone can enjoy. From great melodies to rhythmic and harmonic accompaniment, our program supports all skill levels. Advanced students can dive into multilevel ensemble arrangements with optional parts for guitar, piano, and other instruments.

A Sense of Community in the Heart of Nature
At Fiddles in the Forest, teamwork and connection are at the heart of everything we do. Students will bond through music, group activities, and shared experiences, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the natural world.

Chaperone and Group Options
Groups of students are welcome to attend with their school staff or a parent chaperone. School groups traveling by bus please inquire here. Local parents please sign up your child on this page.

Cost: $325 standard price per student
$400 supporter price includes a $75 donation to help students in need.
$250 economy price applies a $75 need-based scholarship.
All pricing tiers include all meals, on-site lodging, and activities.

Sample Schedule
Here’s a glimpse of the fun-filled weekend:

Friday

• 4:00 PM: Welcome Circle
• 5:00 PM: Group Tune Workshop
• 6:00 PM: Dinner
• 7:00 PM: Evening Tune Workshop (Groups A/B) & Folk Dance
• 10:00 PM: Bedtime

Saturday

• 8:00 AM: Breakfast
• 9:00 AM: Opening Circle
• 9:30 AM: Morning Tune Workshop (Groups A/B)
• 11:00 AM: Elective Activities
• 12:30 PM: Lunch
• 1:30 PM: Afternoon Elective Activities
• 3:30 PM: Tune Workshop (Groups A/B)
• 4:45 PM: Group Review & Talent Show Prep
• 6:00 PM: Dinner
• 7:00 PM: Dance Party & Talent Show
• 10:00 PM: Bedtime

Sunday

• 8:30 AM: Warm-Up Circle
• 9:00 AM: Whole Camp Tune Share
• 10:00 AM: Brunch
• 10:45 AM: Move Belongings Out of Lodging
• 11:15 AM: Closing Circle
• 11:45 AM: Wigwam Walk
• 12:30 PM: Departure

Need Financial Assistance?
We’re here to help! Email us at ruth.merenda@ashokancenter.org to request support.

Want to Support This Program?
Make a difference for young musicians—Donate to the Ashokan Center today!