Frequently Asked Questions
I am so shy/unmusical/uncreative/untalented/uncertain/[your specific inadequacy here]. Will I fit in?
PuhLEASE ... As if you're the only one who feels this way! If you come, you count. Period. The rest of us will be delighted you got over yourself enough to come help us get over our own inadequate selves.
How do I get there and what do I do when I arrive?
We're located about an hour out of Boise. We'll send directions once we receive your registration. Parking is limited – please carpool. (Contact us if you need help connecting.)
When you arrive you'll see a designated parking area, as well as a registration table where you can check in, pay the remainder of your fee and pick up a program that includes a site map. Someone on a four-wheeler will meet you there and schlep your gear to your chosen camp site (and help you choose one, if necessary). Once you've set up camp come join us for dinner and the evening's festivities.
What if I've never camped before ... ??!!!???
We can assure you there is no need for tiger repellent. See our camper's list for what to bring. Contact us ahead of time with specific questions/concerns. Ask us and/or your sister campers for any help you need once you get here and at any time during the weekend.
There is a certain "funk factor" to be expected. Although there are hand-washing stations near the porta-potties, there are no bathing facilities unless you bring a solar shower of your own.
How can my family reach me over the weekend?
The phone number at Pine Creek Ranch is 208-258-3580. Please instruct family and friends to use it only in case of emergency during the weekend. There is no cell phone carrier that works here. Wi-fi is available near the cabins, but charging outlets are very limited, and there's no guarantee the electricity will be working at all times.
What food do you serve?
This year meals will be lovingly prepared by Cara. We are serving Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast, lunch and dinner, Sunday breakfast and lunch. We expect to accommodate omnivores, vegetarians, vegans, and the gluten-sensitive. The registration form includes an opportunity to list dietary restrictions, but it's not a bad idea to bring a snack or two of your own if you have special needs or are hyper-concerned. Coffee, tea and water are available early morning and throughout the day.
Please bring your own plate, bowl, silverware and hot-drink mug plus a water bottle. You'll be responsible for cleaning your own dishes at our dishwashing station.
Will I have to perform in front of others?
No. You will, however, have opportunities to do so.
How do I know whether a given class is appropriate for my skillset?
We try to give a general idea of which skill "level" each class is targeting, but it's an art, not a science (as is self-assessment). If you find yourself in a class that's either dragging or overwhelming, just go to another class. Teachers do not take this personally.
Level 0: True beginner. Have never touched this or a similar instrument. No student left behind: Pace determined by the least experienced/adept students.
Level 1: Advanced beginner. May be able to play a simple tune or two on this instrument, or have played a similar instrument. No student left behind: Pace determined by the least experienced/adept students.
Level 2: Early intermediate. Ready to learn specific techniques or more difficult tunes. Pace determined by the majority of students who show up.
Level 3: Intermediate. Reasonably confident and fluid, able to learn tunes and techniques quickly. No student dreadfully bored: Pace leans strongly towards the more experienced/adept.
Level 4: Late intermediate/advanced. Accomplished and able to learn quickly. No student dreadfully bored: Pace determined by the most experienced/adept.
Note that classes with the word "ensemble" or "jam" in the title are not intended to offer instruction on how to play individual instruments. They are intended to actually play tunes.
What about ___?
Ask. We don't bite, honest, at least not once we've had our morning coffee. We may even like your question so much that it turns up on this page.