Learn to Play the Fiddle!
Wanna learn?  Come play with us!  We specialize in teaching adult learners.
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Retreat to Scotland with us!
Early Bird Deadline: April 1st
Join us this fall at Birkhill Castle in Scotland!
Whether you are a fiddler or simply someone who loves music and culture we invite you to attend this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
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Learn More
Whether you have no experience whatsoever or are wanting to dust off your instrument again, Drunken Fiddles will provide a path to community and musical fulfillment in the form of a fiddle (or cello). We offer in-person workshops, a 24/7 online music school, international retreats in places such as Ireland and Scotland as well as online intensives.
- In Person Workshop (Kansas City, Parkville MO, Lawrence KS, St. Joseph MO, Wichita Kansas, Springfield MO) is for adults who would like to learn how to play the fiddle/violin. During the 4 week class participants will learn a new fiddle tune each week in a relaxed group environment. We drink wine, we laugh, we have fun and, most importantly, we fiddle! Drunken Fiddles is founded by violinist/fiddler Laurel Parks (of The Wires String duo) whose background includes classical training, fiddling, composing and improvisation.
- Fiddle Life Online School is for learners of all ages who want to learn to play fiddle in the comfort of their own home. Lessons are accessible 24/7 with sheet music cheat sheets, slow practice videos and more. For $29/month (cancel anytime) you will have access to courses such as Absolute Beginner, Celtic Tunes, Romani, Bluegrass, and more!
Drunken Fiddles Online: Fiddle Life School
Have you ever wanted to learn the fiddle? Don't let the fact that you're an adult hold you back. We've taught hundreds of people to play from the very beginning, getting them to the point where they could perform confidently (if they wanted to!) There's no need to read music nor memorize it. You don't even have to know how to play! We take the time to practice the tunes with you as you learn them.
Start fiddling right away!
Learn More100's Of Instructional Videos
Step by step instructional videos starting with how to properly hold the instrument and get a good sound
"There is something magical about Drunken Fiddles classes. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced player you are taught how to play tunes in different ways so that you can fit into playing with a group. The classes and the people who attend are very supportive and inclusive. A sort of no fiddler left behind. "
Carol
Fiddler
"I grew up playing violin, then took a hiatus during college and a few years after; Drunken Fiddles has been a great way to get back into playing! Classes are relaxed, but I've learned so much in the ensemble. It's really reawakened my love of music, and I look forward to class every week!"
Jean
Fiddler
"I had no musical background when I first came to Drunken Fiddles. Laurel has the classes structured so that it's not overwhelming for a beginner, and learning continues to be a fun challenge for me. I love having opportunities for the class to perform in the community, and I am enjoying the journey as my playing improves!!"
Katie
Fiddler
"All of my life I’ve wanted to learn to play the violin but never thought I could. Drunken Fiddles has made this dream of mine a reality. The instructor makes each session fun as well as educational. Anyone who even thinks they want to learn to play would do very well to head to their nearest Drunken Fiddle group and have the time of their life."
Melissa
Fiddler
"I had always dreamed of playing music in a band, and performing in front of large crowds, but my extreme stage fright held me back from this dream. Drunken Fiddles provided me with the perfect tools and methods to overcome this. I was shocked at how quickly my performance anxiety melted away with her help. I highly recommend Laurel Parks to cure your performance anxiety. She is magical and will transform you. I am so very thankful that I am now living my dream as a musician."
Christina
Viola - Fiddler
"I have grey hair. I was bored coming out of COVID. I have short, fat fingers. I had played the tuba when I was young but never touched a violin and didn’t read treble clef music. Then, I stumbled across a class online… Go for it my wife said. I’m pretty sure she wanted me out of the house. The class has become much more than a relief from boredom, it fills the empty well of my soul and reminds me how life-giving playing music is for me. Young and old - the class is family. I am playing an instrument I never dreamed I could with a beautiful group of people that I have come to love… and my wife is happy too."
