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Southern Week at The Ashokan Center

Southern Week 2026
Sun, Aug 16 - Sat, Aug 22



Jay Ungar & Molly Mason host a fun and friendly full-week of Southern traditional music and dance from Old Time Appalachian to Cajun, Creole and Zydeco. Enjoy a week of music, dancing, and friendship in a gorgeous natural setting. There’ll be daytime classes, pre-dinner cultural history sessions, evening jams, song swaps, and dances to rollicking live music, plus Guided Jams, Open Mics, Staff Mini-Concerts and special events like the Mardi Gras Parade and Honky Tonk Night, . Beginners are welcome! Have fun learning and playing together!

THIS YEAR’S STAFF INCLUDES:
Becca Wintle, Becky Hill, Blake Miller, Chas Justus, Erica Weiss, Jay Ungar, Jimmy Breaux, Jo Vidrine, Kelli Jones, Kevin Wimmer, Mark Ardoin, Matt Gordon, Michael Merenda, Molly Mason, Monica-Lisa Mills, Nokosee Fields, Rachel Eddy, Rhonda Rucker, Rhys Jones, Rick Good, Ruth Merenda, Sara Rowbottom, Sharon Leahy , Sparky Rucker, Stephanie Coleman, Suzannah Park… see alphabetical list of staff descriptions and photos below!

Read about this year’s expanded Percussive Dance offerings

See photos from previous years

“I truly liked all of it. The schedule was relaxed but full of options.”

“I loved the community and wonderful people. Excellent, kind, and patient staff. We had so much fun dancing and singing. Also, the food was delicious – thanks for the veggie options!” 

“I enjoyed the organic feel of everything. There was a good structure in place but plenty of flexibility. The people were welcoming, knowledgeable, and generous.”

Pricing

Supporter ($1,065.00)
Includes a donation toward Ashokan’s programs & scholarships. Thank you for your Support!

Standard Registration ($915.00)
Not sure which to choose? Please choose this ticket.

Economy ($765.00)
Need financial assistance? Choose this ticket.

Youth (ages 5-25) ($615.00)
Youth attendees select this ticket registration!

Under 5 ($0.00)
Children under 5 attend for free!

See if you qualify for our
PAY-IT-FORWARD scholarship

Lodging Options
Staying Off-site | $0.00
Live nearby or commuting to and from Ashokan from a hotel, Air BnB, or friend's house?
Camping | $0.00
Camping areas include rec field (with bathhouse) upper pasture, and more. BYO camping gear. No open fires.
Sharing a Private Room purchased by someone else | $0.00
Ashokan doesn't assign roommates or split room costs at our end, but you're encouraged to coordinate sharing any private room.
Bunk in Men's Longhouse | $300.00
Twin-sized bunk in large shared room with large shared bathroom. Maximum capacity 24 people in 12 bunkbeds. BYO bedding, towels, toiletries
Bunk in Women's Longhouse | $300.00
Twin-sized bunk in large shared room with large shared bathroom. Maximum capacity 24 people in 12 bunkbeds. BYO bedding, towels, toiletries
Bunk in All Gender Longhouse | $300.00
Twin-sized bunk in large shared room with large shared bathroom. Maximum capacity 24 people in 12 bunkbeds. BYO bedding, towels, toiletries
Raspberry Private Cabin | $900.00
Small private cabin with two twin beds, sleeps up to 2 people. Shared bathrooms nearby.
Longhouse Private Room | $1,050.00
Upstairs room with shared bathroom. Sleeps up to 3 people in one bunkbed with twin top and queen bottom bunk. BYO bedding, towels, toiletries

**See Additional Info**

CAMP WAITLIST & PRIVATE LODGING WAITLIST (This option is for you if the blue "Click to register button" is disabled or your preferred lodging choice is greyed out in the form.)

JAY UNGAR & MOLLY MASON

Your hosts, Jay & Molly, will offer an ensemble workshop called “Waltzes & Slow Tunes.” Drawing on their many years of teaching and performing together, they will help students explore the phrasing, dynamics, and ensemble skills that bring these melodies to life. The workshop will focus on creating effective arrangements and a deeper understanding of the music, with inspiring material that’s accessible to players of a wide range of experience levels.
BECKY HILL

Becky is an acclaimed traditional dance artist and educator with decades of experience in Appalachian clogging, flatfooting, square dance and other traditional dance forms. As well as teaching percussive dance steps with infectious enthusiasm and a focus on rhythm and musicality, Becky loves to share the rich history of these dance styles.  She'll also call evening square dances and lead a caller's class where students learn how to create engaging and energetic community dance experiences. All skill levels are welcome! Read about this year's expanded percussive dance offerings from Becky & the dance team!
BLAKE MILLER

Blake comes from a multi-generational musical family in Iota, Louisiana, where he learned to play the many instruments heard on a traditional Cajun bandstand from relatives and friends at home gatherings, parties, and jam sessions. He hosts the weekly bilingual public radio program La Lou Jukebox on 88.7 FM and KRVS.org. Blake is deeply passionate about teaching and preserving the music he loves by sharing it with future generations.
CHAS JUSTUS

Chas grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, knowing from an early age that he was meant to play guitar. His style blends country jazz with the Southwest Louisiana guitar traditions he admires, while his distinctive singing and songwriting have established him as an exciting voice among today’s Southern troubadours. Passionate about sharing his musical knowledge and experience with students of all ages, Chas will teach guitar and play for dancing with at Southern Week.
ERICA WEISS

Erica will teach Old Time Guitar and Cajun and Zydeco dance. Her guitar classes zero in on the musical concepts and techniques that drive the rhythmic heartbeat of old-time music. Erica's Cajun and Zydeco dance classes emphasize both technique and the joyful, spirit of connecting with the rhythmic groove of the music. With live music setting the pace, participants will immerse themselves in the fun and flow of these Cajun and Zydeco dance, gaining confidence and connection while celebrating the rich cultural traditions of the Southern Louisiana.
JIMMY BREAUX

Jimmy is the fourth generation of his family to carry on the Cajun music tradition. His great-aunt, Cléoma Breaux, and her husband, Joe Falcon, made history in 1928 with "Allons à Lafayette," the first commercially released Cajun music recording. In 1988, while still a teenager, Jimmy joined Michael Doucet’s groundbreaking Cajun band BeauSoleil, touring internationally and recording with the group for the next 25 years. A highly accomplished multi-instrumentalist, Jimmy returns to Southern Week to share his expertise on  drums and accordion in class and on the bandstand.
JO VIDRINE

Jo says, “Growing up in Southwest Louisiana instilled a sense of pride in my geographic place. I’ve taken the foundations that my parents and elders have created and incorporated the values that my home provides into my everyday life today. Through my music, I’m able to connect with the community in movement and an audible telling of the past and present of our indigenous music here in Cajun country…” A multi-instrumentalist adept at all forms of Southern Louisiana music, Jo will play and teach Cajun/Creole and Zydeco bass at Southern Week.
KELLI JONES

Kelli grew up in North Carolina and began playing old-time fiddle and singing country songs as a teenager. Before long, she developed a strong interest in Cajun music and culture and went on to study both at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. After graduating, Kelli made Lafayette her home, fully immersing herself in the culture while performing locally and touring internationally with a variety of inventive young bands. She is passionate about sharing her love and knowledge of Cajun music and dance, as well as classic country music, through teaching.
KEVIN WIMMER

Kevin is renowned for his deep knowledge and mastery of Cajun, Creole and blues fiddle styles. With years of experience performing with notable bands like Balfa Toujours and Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys, Kevin brings deep knowledge of traditional Louisiana music and a passion for its soulful, rhythmic expression. His classes will focus on technique, improvisation, and stylistic nuances, making them perfect for players of all levels. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Cajun/Creole and blues fiddle!
MARK ARDOIN

Mark comes from one of Louisiana’s most storied Cajun and Creole musical families. A truck driver from Allen Parish by trade, Mark is the great-grandson of legendary accordionist Amédé Ardoin and the nephew of Bois Sec Ardoin. A dedicated dance musician and enthusiastic jammer, Mark has been immersed in the tradition since picking up the accordion at age three. He enjoys sharing the songs, tunes, and playing techniques that have been passed down through generations of his family. We're delighted to welcome Mark to his first Southern Week, along with his young daughter Adleigh, who also plays accordion and scrubboard.

MATT GORDON

Matt will share his deep expertise in traditional music and dance. A master of rhythm and joyful creativity, he brings a lively and engaging teaching style that celebrates the roots of these Appalachian traditions. His engaging personality promises a fun and enriching experience for all. Read about this year's expanded percussive dance offerings from Matt & the dance team!
MIKE & RUTH MERENDA

Mike + Ruthy are mukti-instrumentalists and songwriters whose deep appreciation for traditional music and community informs both their artistry and their teaching. Mike’s clawhammer banjo workshops explore time-honored techniques while encouraging students to develop their own musical voice. Ruth enjoys sharing her experience as a fiddler, singer, and performer with students of all ages and skill levels. Their class, Making Music Together, emphasizes listening, collaboration, and creativity, offering a welcoming and enjoyable experience for musicians at every stage of their musical journey.
MONICA-LISA MILLS AND BECCA WINTLE

Becca (fiddle/vocals) and Monica-Lisa (guitar/vocals) live part time in the Catskills (Andes, NY) where they are helping to re-ignite fiddle and dance traditions that have long histories in this area. As Southern Week Jambassadors, they’ll be spreading musical inspiration, encouraging impromptu jams, offering mini-lessons, and generally making sure everyone is having as much fun as possible.

NOKOSEE FIELDS

The great nephew of celebrated Cherokee fiddler Sam O’Fields, Nokosee carries a longstanding Cherokee fiddling tradition into the present. Through powerful live and recorded performances, he lovingly and playfully reimagines his tradition with immense skills and sensitivity as a performer of traditional fiddle music. Here’s Nokosee’s teaching philosophy in his own words, “I aim to create a relaxed and open learning environment to understand each student's musical strengths and weaknesses. My goal is to get you to a place where you feel comfortable with the instrument, learn on your own, and be confident in making beautiful and thoughtful sounds.”
RACHEL EDDY

Rachel will teach Old-Time fiddle and banjo at Southern Week, offering students a deep dive into traditional Appalachian music. Through classic repertoire students will explore the distinctive rhythms and techniques that define Old-Time music. Rachel’s approachable teaching style emphasizes the joy of playing in community, learning by ear and building confidence. Expect an enriching and supportive learning experience.
RHYS JONES

Rhys will teach Old-Time fiddle and banjo at Southern Week, offering students a chance to immerse themselves in the roots of Appalachian music. Known for his clear teaching style, Rhys focuses on the core rhythmic and melodic elements that define Old Time music. Rhys fosters a supportive, community-focused environment where everyone can develop their skills and deepen their connection to this cherished American musical tradition.
SARA ROWBOTTOM

Sara dances with the City Stompers, a percussive dance group that performs and leads a workshop each year at the Summer Hoot. She'll play an important role in the newly expanded percussive dance program at Southern Week along with Becky Hill, Matt Gordon and Sharon Leahy.
SHARON LEAHY & RICK GOOD

Sharon is a renowned dancer, choreographer and teacher, with a lifetime of experience in traditional dance and movement. She’ll lead an energetic and exciting team clogging class that leads to a rousing end of camp live performance.  Sharon also holds early morning yoga sessions for all. Rick is a master musician and storyteller, known for his soulful playing and deep connection to Appalachian traditions. He'll offer an old-time banjo songs class focusing on classic old-time repertoire, techniques, and the rich history behind the music. Together Sharon and Rick will offer a class in country duet singing where they’ll teach harmony, phrasing, and musical connection while drawing on a wealth of heartfelt country music repertoire. Read about this year's expanded percussive dance offerings from Sharon & the dance team!
SPARKY & RHONDA RUCKER

Sparky & Rhonda are acclaimed folk singing instructors and performers specializing in traditional American music, including blues, spirituals, Appalachian ballads, and Civil Rights anthems. With over 50 years of touring experience, they captivate audiences worldwide with powerful vocals, masterful storytelling, and expert musicianship on guitar, banjo, and harmonica. Their workshops explore the cultural roots of folk music, blending history with dynamic performance. Committed educators and activists, Sparky and Rhonda inspire students to connect with America’s musical heritage while promoting social justice through song, preserving timeless stories of struggle, resilience, and hope with warmth, authenticity, and undeniable stage presence.
STEPHANIE COLEMAN

Stephanie began playing fiddle at age eight, learning from her father, Don, a avid old-time fiddler. Growing up in Chicago’s vibrant traditional music community centered around the legendary Old Town School of Folk Music, where she was mentored by its many accomplished musicians. At age twelve, she began studying Midwestern fiddle traditions with renowned fiddler Lynn “Chirps” Smith. Chirps, along with mentors Rhys Jones, Steve Rosen, and Paul Tyler, inspired Stephanie not only to refine her musical craft but also to explore the rich history of Appalachian and Midwestern fiddle music.

While attending Duke University, Stephanie traveled throughout North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee to visit and document elder traditional musicians. This work culminated in a documentary about 88-year-old Tennessee fiddle and banjo master Clyde Davenport. Stephanie is happy to return to Southern Week and share her skills, knowledge, and deep love of traditional music.
SUZANNAH PARK

Suzannah Park is a respected ballad and singing teacher and performer rooted in Appalachian, British, and global folk traditions. Born in North Carolina and raised in a musical family, she grew up immersed in harmony singing, shape-note, and story-rich ballads. With a passionate, inclusive teaching style, Suzannah leads workshops, retreats, and community sings across the U.S. and abroad. She blends technical skill with deep cultural context, helping students connect with the power of traditional songs. A sought-after performer and collaborator, Suzannah’s work celebrates the living tradition of folk music, weaving stories of resilience, love, and history through her captivating voice and heartfelt teaching.

Additional Info:

Payment/Cancellation/Refund Policy

You may pay in full or hold your place with a deposit of 25% per person if registering 4 or more weeks before camp. Full payment is due 4 weeks before camp begins. To cancel your camp registration, email events@ashokancenter.org

• We retain $50 per person for cancellations requested until 4 weeks before camp begins, and for COVID-related cancellations made at any date.

• We retain your 25% deposit between 4 and until 2 weeks before camp.

• We retain the full registration amount within 2 weeks of camp.

Schedule Overview

SUNDAY

1:00-3:00pm: CAMPER ARRIVAL & CHECK IN
3:00pm: WELCOME GATHERING
4:00pm: MEET THE TEACHERS
6:00pm: DINNER
7:00pm: EVENING DANCE & JAMS
10:00pm: SNACK

MONDAY-FRIDAY

8:30-9:30am: BREAKFAST
9:30-12:30pm: CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
12:00-1:30pm: LUNCH
2:00-5:00pm: CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
5:00-6:00pm: OPEN MIC (Esopus Courtyard)
6:00-7:00pm: DINNER
7:30-10:00pm: EVENING DANCE & JAMS
10:00pm: SNACK & INFORMAL JAMMING

SATURDAY

10:00am: BRUNCH
12:00-2:00pm: FAREWELL GATHERING

Pricing & What's Included!

You may choose to pay up front or pay a deposit and balance. Balance payment is due 4 weeks before the event.

Registration includes all activities and meals. Lodging is optional and camping is free.

Children under 5 attend for free (under 3 for Family Camp). Campers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Food & Drink

All meals are included. You may indicate your dietary restrictions when registering. We make every effort to include a range of allergen-free dishes and to inform diners of meal ingredients.

The Ashokan Center is licensed to serve beer and wine in Esopus Lodge (the main building). The bar is generally open from late afternoon to early evening. Sorry, by law, guests are prohibited from bringing their own alcoholic beverages into this licensed building.

Lodging

LONGHOUSE BUNKS: Rooms hold up to 24 people and are designated women, men, or all gender. Place your belongings on a top or bottom bunk after you check in to claim it. Pillows are available, please bring your own blankets, sheets, pillowcases, and towels. There are a small number of light blankets for those bunkhouse residents who are unable to bring one of their own. If you will need us to provide one, please let us know well in advance.

PRIVATE ROOMS: There are a limited number of private rooms that must be reserved in advance at extra charge. Pillows are available, please bring your own sheets, pillowcases, and towels. There are light quilts in each private room.

CAMPSITES: Camping is available with access to bathrooms and outdoor showers. Please park by your campsite only if you plan to leave your car in place for the duration of the camp.

What To Bring

If you’re lodging with us please remember to bring a blanket and linens (or sleeping bag), towel, toiletries, soap, flashlight, earplugs (for light sleepers). There are light quilts in each private room and we have a small number of light blankets for bunkhouse residents who can’t bring one of their own. Let us know well in advance if you’ll need one.

Flashlight, recording device, camera (or maybe those are all your phone!)

Comfortable informal clothing for wet and dry weather. Some may also bring dressy, wild or fun clothing as well but that is up to you! There’s no laundry on site so bring enough clothes for the camp.

What Not To Bring
Please, no pets or drop-in guests.
Mail/Phone/WiFi

Incoming mail

Your Name c/o Ashokan Music & Dance 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge, NY 12461

Outgoing mail leaves each weekday at 4pm.

Music & Dance Camp Phone (845) 657-8333 x 3

Cell phone reception is available but spotty. Calls may be dropped but texts are reliably received.

High speed Wi-Fi is available in all buildings.

Directions & Transportation

Physical Address: Ashokan Center, 477 Beaverkill Rd, Olivebridge, NY 12461

DRIVING DIRECTIONS   Take NY State Thruway (1-87) to Kingston exit #19. From traffic circle take Route 28 West (toward Pine Hill). In 12 miles (shortly after Mobil & Citgo) turn left onto Reservoir Rd. Cross the Ashokan Reservoir, turn left at the Tee. Head down the hill, pass the first left (Rt 28A East) and merge onto 28A West. Take next left onto Beaverkill Rd. Follow Beaverkill for about one mile, then turn right into the Ashokan Center driveway and follow the signs.

AIRPORT  Albany, NY (ALB) is the closest major airport (about 1.5 hours away). Public transportation is available from the airport to the Kingston bus station, where you can take a taxi to Ashokan. Or contact us at least one month before your program begins for a list of people driving from the Albany area who may be able to give you a ride.

Covid Safety Policy

We remain committed to the well-being of our guests, staff, and broader community. As public health guidance continues to evolve, common respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 influenza (flu) and RSV are managed similarly.

The Ashokan Center’s policy reflects current CDC and New York State Department of Health guidance and emphasizes personal responsibility, symptom-based decision-making, and community care.

We maintain hand sanitizer stations, promote handwashing, and prioritize good ventilation and clean shared spaces.If you are experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness—including fever (>100), cough, sore throat, and fatigue—you should go home and not participate in group activities.

We continue to monitor public health guidance and will revise this policy as needed.

Refund policy: If you cancel or shorten your stay due to respiratory illness you will be eligible for a prorated refund. We appreciate your cooperation in staying home when ill.

Additional FAQ's
CLICK to read more answers to Frequently Asked Questions.

The Ashokan Center builds community through shared experiences in nature, history, music and art. We have hosted traditional Music & Dance Camps at our 385 acre nature preserve for over 40 years. In 2020 we learned how to host them online and in 2021 we began to reimagine how to gather in person once again.

Come join the Ashokan family to celebrate, learn, connect, deepen your music, make new friends, and brighten your day. Our events are open to all folks, all ages and all orientations.

M&D Need-Based “Pay it Forward” SCHOLARSHIPS We are holding 5 deeply discounted spots (includes tuition, meals & bunk) to provide a learning opportunity to gigging musicians and music, vocal, and dance teachers who will be sharing out their newly learned skills with a wider community. We prioritize new applicants each year and notify all applicants within 1 month before camp begins.

NEED HELP?

EMAIL: events@ashokancenter.org
CALL 845-657-8333 x3

Click here for answers to Frequently Asked Questions about camp!

Thank you to the Martin Guitar Charitable Foundation for supporting Ashokan Music & Dance Camps.