utilizes
both the expertise of the performing artists who visit the
Watercolor Cafe on regular basis, and the energy and enthusiasm
of the aspiring musicians, singers, and songwriters who have
found a home here.
To
date, artists who have performed here and who have hosted
individual workshops include Ellis Paul,
Steve Forbert, Susan Werner, David Roth, Cliff Eberhardt.
John Gorka, Vance Gilbert, Sloan Wainwright, Slaid Cleaves, David Wilcox, Marshall Crenshaw and many others.
The
workshops are generally held on Tuesday or Wednesday afternoon
when the visiting artist is scheduled to perform that night
as part of the Watercolor Cafe's "Folk Poet" Series.
The workshop day, and the fee, includes lunch at the Watercolor
Cafe at 2:30pm, the workshop itself from 3:30-6:30pm, and
the performance at 8pm. The workshops are held at the Larchmont
Music Academy, across the street from the Watercolor Cafe.
The
format of the workshop is decided by the visiting artist in
conjunction with a facilitator, who is also a songwriter of
note. Participants are encouraged to bring their own instruments,
as well as notebooks and recording devices. There is usually
a give and take where participants are free to present their
own work, although there is no requirement that they do so.
There is no particular skill level required, and workshops
are open to people of all ages.