Charles Pettee's life-long study of the craft of songwriting has led him to develop a method that works with non-musicians and musicians alike, and is also an excellent exercise in team building. This program uses the processes of songwriting to identify, and then reinforce, a group's priorities, goals, and community identity, often resulting in a song that the group may enjoy for years to come! Over the course of five, hour-long sessions, (either on consecutive days, or one session per week), participants delve into what makes a song, and explore how it can powerfully deliver any message. Pettee guides participants in creating lists of terms or phrases relevant to their group. Next, participants blend these into themes and/or rhyming phrases.

Pettee then helps in selecting appropriate melody/music style, and coaches the team to be able to perform their song as a group. Along the way, Pettee offers insights into musical styles, often performing live for the group. Pettee is adept at incorporating the talents of any singers or musicians that happen to be in the group Ð as well as guiding anyone who has never considered such an undertaking! This entertaining process can result in a song that becomes a ÒkeeperÓ for the company or group, (recording provided upon request). However, the real benefit of this exercise, beyond the song itself, is an enhanced sense of community among the participants resulting from their work together on something both thought-provoking and fun. Expect deeper camaraderie and group cohesion after this program with this seasoned professional musician and experienced facilitator! Ideal for groups of 15-25. Can offer up to four workshops in a day.

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Artist/Presenter Background

Charles Pettee, believes that music Ð especially North Carolina Bluegrass music Р is an effective vehicle for fostering relationships between diverse groups of people. His programs demonstrate that Bluegrass, (which is an up-beat mix of blues, jazz, gospel, and country sounds), is a product of the influences of many different cultures, across many generations, and therefore, is a music form that engages a wide range of ages and experiences. Through schools, libraries, festivals, and private events, Pettee delights audiences with his unique blend of original and traditional Bluegrass music developed at more than 5,500 performances throughout the US, Canada, and Europe. Among his many projects, he is founding member of the world-traveling bluegrass group The Shady Grove Band, with whom he has recorded over 40 original compositions on six critically acclaimed CDs, he is founder of Charles Pettee & FolkPsalm, which has produced four CDs of PetteeÕs original music, and he has toured nationally and internationally for over three decades. PetteeÕs original songs have received airplay in more than twenty foreign countries, as well as digital and satellite transmissions. His love and mastery of southern string music have made him a sought-after Teaching Artist in educational settings for over twenty-five years, where his programs highlight the contributions of many cultures to the NC music landscape. Mr. Pettee continues to offer award-winning age-specific performances for preK through college, as well as workshops and residencies for libraries and educational institutions.

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Additional Information

Charles Pettee, believes that music Ð especially North Carolina Bluegrass music Р is an effective vehicle for fostering relationships between diverse groups of people. His programs demonstrate that Bluegrass, (which is an up-beat mix of blues, jazz, gospel, and country sounds), is a product of the influences of many different cultures, across many generations, and therefore, is a music form that engages a wide range of ages and experiences. Through schools, libraries, festivals, and private events, Pettee delights audiences with his unique blend of original and traditional Bluegrass music developed at more than 5,500 performances throughout the US, Canada, and Europe. Among his many projects, he is founding member of the world-traveling bluegrass group The Shady Grove Band, with whom he has recorded over 40 original compositions on six critically acclaimed CDs, he is founder of Charles Pettee & FolkPsalm, which has produced four CDs of PetteeÕs original music, and he has toured nationally and internationally for over three decades. PetteeÕs original songs have received airplay in more than twenty foreign countries, as well as digital and satellite transmissions. His love and mastery of southern string music have made him a sought-after Teaching Artist in educational settings for over twenty-five years, where his programs highlight the contributions of many cultures to the NC music landscape. Mr. Pettee continues to offer award-winning age-specific performances for preK through college, as well as workshops and residencies for libraries and educational institutions.

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Additional Details

• Topic(s): Team Building
• Discipline: Music