a Folk
Music
festival
Join us for an exciting week of musical workshops and performances. Learn from experienced musicians and connect with fellow music enthusiasts. Workshops For Fiddle, mandolin, Banjo, Bass, Guitar, accordion, harmonica, Song writing, Music theory for dummies, Nashville numbering system, vocal harmony and more!!!
Workshops by day
Performances and
Jams in the evening
All skill levels welcome
No registration fee
Donations accepted
JOIN US AT FISHER FIDDLE CAMP
EXPERIENCE
It is quite possibly the most beautiful property in the Fisher area. A Western PA farm, large barn and farm house located in the center of a 40 Acre field, south facing slope, two ponds, walnut grove, bee hives, camping all over... It's going to be magical!!!
Info
Schedule at a Glance
Monday
Volunteers Only
Tuesday
Volunteers Only. Campers and instructors arrive in the evening.
Wednesday
8:00 AM Breakfast • 9:00 AM Workshops • 12:00 PM Lunch & Casual Concert , Clogging Demo/Intro• 1:00 PM Afternoon Workshops • 6:00 PM Potluck Dinner • Evening Square Dance in the Barn
Thursday
8:00 AM Breakfast • 9:00 AM Workshops • 12:00 PM Lunch, Casual Concert, Hickory Creek Dancers • 1:00 PM Afternoon Workshops • Evening Dinner available for purchase from PA Mushroom Company • Irish & Celtic Night • Dancing in the Barn
Friday
8:00 AM Breakfast • 9:00 AM Workshops • 12:00 PM Lunch & Casual Concert • 1:00 PM Afternoon Workshops • Evening Dinner available for purchase from PA Mushroom Company • Instructor Performances, Camper Concert & Open Mic
Saturday
8:00 AM Breakfast • 9:00 AM Workshops • 12:00 PM Lunch & Casual Concert • 1:00 PM Open Jams while the evening concert venue is prepared • 3:00 PM Performances Begin and Continue Throughout the Evening
Sunday
8:00 AM Breakfast • 9:00 AM Gospel Sing-Along • Farewell & Send-Off
This will be the second year for Fisher Fiddle Camp. It was so much fun that we thought we’d try it again, and we’re excited this year to be able to offer an enhanced set of workshops, jam sessions —and a square dance-- with a really special group of experienced teachers and musicians. On Saturday there will be performances which are open to the public.
About Fisher Fiddle Camp
In the tiny village of Fisher, Pennsylvania, some friends and fellow musicians have a band, and get together to play music together on a regular basis. One of them, Andy Kirby, had the bright idea that there was a need for more music and musicians in northwestern Pennsylvania.
So, last year, with the help of his friends and some other musicians, the very first Fisher Fiddle Camp debuted. Folks who attended last year seemed to really love the experience, so we thought we’d try it again, in a new location-- hoping to turn it into an annual event!
Why do you call it “Fiddle Camp” when it’s open to all instruments?
Well, the answer is that we’re honoring the “fiddle tune” roots of traditional music in America. A fiddle tune refers to a short, rhythmic instrumental melody, often with roots in British, Irish, or Scottish folk traditions, typically designed for dancing and traditionally played on the violin. So, fiddle tunes are staples of “roots” or traditional American music and we hope you learn few new ones with us this July.
When is Fisher Fiddle Camp?
Full days of workshops and events will run from Wednesday, July 15, through Saturday, July 18, 2026. Volunteers and instructors will begin arriving Monday and Tuesday to set up. There will be a meet and greet dinner for volunteers and instructors Tuesday evening. Participants are welcome to arrive to set up their campsite in the evening of July 14 and to stay until Sunday morning, when camp will formally end with gospel service/jam/sing-a-long.
Where is Fisher Fiddle Camp?
Fisher Fiddle Camp is in Fisher, Pennsylvania. There’s a local saying "Everything leans toward Fisher.” Nobody quite knows why that saying exists, though there are many theories.
This year, Fisher Fiddle Camp will be held on quite possibly the most beautiful property in the Fisher area -- a Western PA farm, large barn and farm house located in the center of a 40 Acre field, south facing slope, two ponds, walnut grove, bee hives, camping all over... It's going to be magical!!! With that said the site is hilly. If you have mobility concerns please call us so that we can discuss options.
How Much Does Fisher Fiddle Camp Cost?
Well, Fisher Fiddle Camp is a bit unusual, because, at least for this year, it is donation-based. We don't want any kid with a guitar to "not come" for reasons of money.
However, organizing and holding an event like this costs money, especially as we’re making every effort to continue to improve the quality of Fisher Fiddle Camp, so we’re hopeful to at least cover our costs via donations. So I would say "Give as you are able."
Once we have a better handle on costs, we’ll probably come up with a suggested donation—but, of course, we’ll welcome all generous gifts. We’d like to make Fisher Fiddle Camp an annual tradition, and your financial support will help enable that to happen!
How Do I Sign Up?
Use the register now button at the top of this website. We’re asking everyone who wishes to attend to register, so we can make appropriate arrangements.
What About Lodging?
Camping will be available onsite, with limited space for RV’s. Lodging is also available in Clarion, PA (the closest big town) and across the river in the Cook Forest area (both about 20 minutes away). Brookville is also a possibility, though it’s a bit farther.
The off-site lodging choices include a variety of hotels, as well as inns, cabins and Airbnbs. You’ll need to notify us if you want to camp on-site when you register.
What about Food?
This year, we’re going to make breakfast available to all campers. Water, coffee and tea will be available all day. We will have a potluck and square dance in the barn Wednesday evening so bring a dish to share. There will be a food truck Thursday Friday and Saturday.
What’s the Schedule for Fisher Fiddle Camp?
The exact daily schedule will be made available at the beginning of camp. Generally, each day will contain a mix of workshops where we’ll learn some songs together, classes on specific instruments, music theory, introduction to jamming, instrument maintenance, etc., with ample time for jamming. You can see last year’s schedule below, to give you some idea of what to expect.
What Else to Expect Besides Workshops?
We’ll leave plenty of time for formal and informal jamming, and we’ll help beginners to feel comfortable playing with others and performing. There will be space set aside for campers to perform together Friday evening or Saturday afternoon . Really, the initial impulse behind the creation of Fisher Fiddle Camp was to enable more folks to learn to play music together.

Meet the Instructors
At Fisher Fiddle Camp, our instructors bring a rich blend of experience, passion, and tradition to every class. Each teacher offers their own unique perspective while sharing a deep love for old-time and bluegrass music. Whether you're just beginning or looking to grow your skills, you'll be supported in a welcoming, encouraging environment. Come learn, play, and connect as your music takes flight.

Rachel Eddy
Rachel Eddy, a native of West Virginia now based in Washington, D.C., is a multi-instrumentalist and educator deeply rooted in Appalachian music and dance traditions. Known for soulful singing and skill across fiddle, banjo, guitar, and mandolin, Rachel performs internationally as both a solo artist and ensemble collaborator. Their work spans festivals, recordings, theater productions, and teaching at renowned music camps, with a passion for fostering connection through music. As a dedicated teacher, Rachel creates an inclusive and thoughtful learning environment, guiding students of all levels to grow in both skill and creativity.

Emma Borders
Emma Borders is a Nashville-based multi-instrumentalist, performer, and educator with a passion for sharing music both on and off the stage. She has performed at iconic venues such as the Grand Ole Opry House and Carnegie Hall, and has appeared as an opening act for country artist Josh Turner. Alongside her performance work, Emma teaches violin and mandolin while creating educational content on YouTube to support aspiring musicians. Her approach is rooted in encouraging others to discover joy and confidence through learning music.

Stephanie Green
Stephanie Green is a violinist and full-time music instructor based in Butler, Pennsylvania, with over 30 years of performance experience. She began playing at age nine and developed her foundation in bluegrass and old-time music through early involvement in performance, competitions, and orchestral programs, later earning a BA in Music Performance Studies from Slippery Rock University. Stephanie has performed extensively with ensembles including the Butler Symphony Orchestra, a classical duet group, and multiple bluegrass bands, contributing to recordings and regional performances. Through teaching and performing across a variety of styles, she continues to share her love of music with students and audiences alike.

Seth McCall
Seth McCall is a violinist, educator, and director based in Butler, Pennsylvania, with a lifelong dedication to music and teaching. He began studying violin at age three and continued through his studies at Slippery Rock University, where he served as Concertmaster while pursuing degrees in mathematics and education. After 20 years as a high school mathematics teacher, Seth now serves as Director of Orchestras for the Shaler Area School District. Alongside his work in education, he remains active as a freelance violinist, private instructor, and luthier in the Pittsburgh area.

Trish Imbrogno
Trish Imbrogno is an upright bassist, educator, and performer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with a strong foundation in both classical and American roots music. She studied at Duquesne University and has since performed at festivals including DelFest, Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, and the IBMA World of Bluegrass. Known for her steady rhythm and collaborative style, Trish brings a supportive and practical approach to both performance and teaching. As an educator, she works with musicians of all levels, helping them build confidence through tone, timing, and real-world musical skills.

Nicolas Landon
Nicolas Landon is a multi-instrumentalist, educator, and author with a focus on banjo, guitar, and button box accordion. His work is rooted in a deep appreciation for folk traditions, drawing inspiration from Appalachian music to sounds from across the globe. Nicolas brings curiosity and creativity to both his performances and teaching, encouraging students to explore music with openness and confidence. Through his work, he supports a well-rounded and engaging approach to learning and playing traditional music.

Barbi Milliron
Barbi Milliron is a violinist, fiddle player, and music instructor with over 40 years of playing experience and more than 30 years of teaching. She currently serves as an elementary music teacher and choir director at Keystone Elementary School in Knox, PA, and has 19 years of experience teaching elementary music and choir. She teaches private lessons in violin, guitar, and piano, working with students of all ages and experience levels. Barbi’s musical background blends classical training with a deep passion for Old-Time fiddle music. An active performer, Barbi currently performs with the Venango Symphony Orchestra and performs locally with the band Gravel Lick, a group known for its “bluegrass with a kick” sound, bringing energy and tradition together for community audiences. Now in her second year teaching at Fisher Fiddle Camp, Barbi is passionate about sharing her love of fiddle music, helping others feel comfortable, capable, and excited to grow in their playing.

Dakota Karper
Dakota Karper is an Appalachian folk musician and educator rooted in the traditions of West Virginia’s old-time music. Raised in a culture of community music-making, she blends traditional melodies with original compositions, reflecting a strong connection to her heritage. Dakota performs at concerts and festivals and is the founder of The Cat and The Fiddle, a folk music school dedicated to inclusive, intergenerational learning. Alongside teaching at camps and leading community initiatives, she supports the continued growth and accessibility of Appalachian music through her work as a performer, educator, and organizer.

Christian O'Stafy
Christian O'Stafy is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist from western Pennsylvania, specializing in stringed instruments with a focus on bluegrass guitar influenced by Appalachian style. With over 12 years of live performance experience, he has played alongside artists such as Bryan Sutton and Rhonda Vincent and The Rage, and has toured with West Virginia’s Crandall Creek. By day, he works as a hospice Registered Nurse, and by night, he is a dedicated flatpicker performing in various bands and musical settings. Through both performance and teaching, Christian shares a passion for tradition, connection, and the craft of bluegrass music.

Ben Edmondson
Ben Edmondson is a native of Franklin, PA, now living Cranberry Township, PA, with his family. He is an original member of The Byson Band. Starting in middle school, he developed a love of singing harmonies, thanks to an excellent choir director. He started playing guitar in high school, always hoping to find more friends to play music with. After reconnecting with Andy Kirby back in their hometown, they discovered how much they enjoyed singing together. Almost twenty years later, that enjoyment has only grown, and now Ben counts himself lucky to regularly play music with some really fine folks.

Henry Kramer
Henry Kramer is a guitar and banjo player from Western Pennsylvania. He cut his teeth on jazz guitar 19 years ago and has since developed a deep appreciation for music across all genres, taking a particular interest in Bluegrass and Old-Time Music. Henry currently performs with multiple groups across the region, playing folk, funk, fusion, and everything in between. Formerly a yoga instructor, Henry’s approach to music teaching is similarly grounded in community, connection, passion, and joy.

Pam Cyphert
Pam Cyphert, a retired school teacher and native of Clarion County, grew up just a few miles from Fisher and learned early on that “Everything leans towards Fisher.” She is currently a member of a local band, Keridwyn, which plays an eclectic blend of Celtic and folk music. Pam is self-taught and plays guitar, mandolin, tenor banjo, bowed psaltery, and mountain dulcimer. She began teaching mountain dulcimer workshops in the 90s at local folk festivals and in continuing education classes at Clarion University. Pam has a delicate finger picking style, offering a unique approach to playing 4 equidistant strings on mountain dulcimer.

Andy Kifer
Andy Kifer is a multi-instrumentalist from Pittsburgh, PA who now lives in the Hudson Valley, where he is a member of the Hudson Valley Bluegrass Association and frequent participant in the New York City jam scene. A guitar player and singer since he was nine, Andy also plays mandolin and is learning the fiddle. Andy's favorite thing about bluegrass is how it lets people of varying skill levels make music together and have fun. He loves to draw beginners into the music and encourage those who don't think they can play with others to give it a shot. With deep family roots in the Fisher area, Andy is excited to bring the music he plays to a place that he loves.
