Overview

Volunteers, thank you for another amazing year. This event is part of our Volunteer Appreciation Week. If you’ve ever volunteered with WTA, this event is for you! Pick one (Lichen Walk or Intro to Campfire Strumming) - both end up together for coffee, cider and donuts at the Hamilton Mt. Trailhead.

Ever wanted to learn ukulele or guitar but didn't know where to start? This short class is tailored for you but all are welcome including camp fire music virtuosos!

About the Area

Beacon Rock's native name is "Che-Che-op-tin," which translates to "the navel of the world." Native Americans weren't far off in their comparison, since the 848-foot basalt column once formed the core, or belly, of an ancient volcano.

During the ice age, icebergs and flowing waters slowly carved away the softer exterior rock, leaving Beacon Rock sticking straight out of the north banks of the Columbia River. Lewis and Clark camped here on their way to the Pacific, and it was at Beacon Rock that they first noticed the tides affecting water levels in the Columbia River, more than 120 miles from the mouth. It was this team of explorers that gave the rock its modern name, though they were initially undecided on whether it should be "Beacon Rock" or "Beaten Rock."

What to Expect

Ever wanted to play a ukulele, guitar, mandolin or banjo but didn't know where to start? Come learn the basics of a simple three chord song. No experience is necessary. Bring your own instrument if you have one or share from a selection of loaner stringed instruments that we'll bring.

Project Description

This class will feature basics techniques and vocabulary to introduce the student to strumming patterns, chords and putting it together in a simple, but classic folk song. The lesson is aimed at the first time player with no prior music experience but all are welcome to come along.

Hiking Information

We will gather in the rustic shelter at the Hamilton Mt. Trailhead.

Schedule

• 9:00 AM: Welcome and Introductions
• 9:10 AM: Basic strum
• 9:20 AM: Fretting a note
• 9:30 AM: Making a chord
• 9:45 AM: Chord transitions
• 10:00 AM: Putting it all together
• 10:30 AM: Break for coffee, cider and donuts
• 11:00 AM: The end! Hope this is the start of you musical Journey!

Planning Information

We'll be in a rustic CCC era shelter with a wood stove but dress warmly. Bring a folding camp chair if you have one to add to the seating options already in the shelter (picnic tables).

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

• No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for learning
• Expect to be sitting for about an hour with some breaks for coffee and snacks
• Recommended for ages 10 and older; under 14 must be accompanied by an adult and a parental consent form must be signed for anyone under 18

What to Wear

Recommended:

• Warm clothes and hat (we'll be indoors but it is a rustic shelter and may be drafty)

What to Bring

• Camp chair
• A stringed instrument (Ukulele, Baritone ukulele, banjo, mandolin or guitar) if you have one but don't worry if you don't we have some to loan
• Insulated mug for coffee or cider
• A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!

Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

• Frequently Asked Questions
• WTA's Trail Work Guide introduces the type of work you may do
• Check out of full Schedule of Volunteer Appreciation Events
• Contact us at volunteer@wta.org or 206.625.1367

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Partners

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