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  3. Leigh Nelson

Leigh Nelson

Boiling Springs, SC

Leigh Nelson came to bluegrass music in the 80s when friends were jamming and she wanted in on the fun. Leigh learned by ear and developed her skills at jam sessions and festivals. Most at home on her 5-string bass, she also plays guitar and mandolin.

Combining her experience as corporate CEO in Arizona with her passion for jamming, Leigh has been an indispensable partner for her husband Gilbert Nelson at Wernick Method jam camps since 2011. Affectionately known as “General Leigh” at jam camps, she is adored as a seasoned and skilled teacher who treats everyone like family.

Email Leigh
“She put me at ease and got me across the finish line.”
“Leigh made it fun and easy, a wealth of knowledge.”
“Leigh knows jamming, she’s da bomb!”
“Leigh serves all who attend with genuine pleasure and friendship.”
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FAQs
Wernick Method Classes teach real bluegrass jamming!
  • Hands-on learning in large and small groups
  • No jamming experience necessary
  • You will be jamming the first hour!
  • All bluegrass instruments welcome
  • Full ground rules and etiquette of typical jams
  • Intermediates welcome, and given added challenges
  • Friendly, encouraging, knowledgeable teaching
  • Gentle tempos! Mistakes expected!
  • Music/tab reading not needed or used
  • Ear skills taught and emphasized, as in real bluegrass
  • Learn many bluegrass standards
  • Singing not required, but encouraged and taught
  • Soloing not required! “Faking” solos taught
  • How to lead songs and how to follow new songs
  • How to find melodies, fake solos, sing harmony
  • Group and individualized instruction on backup skills
  • Understanding, low-pressure, time-tested teaching

Read More About the Wernick Method

Do you qualify? It’s easier than you may think!

If you play guitar, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, bass, or dobro… you can be part of a bluegrass jam.

Only requirements - be able to:

  • Tune your instrument and
  • Change smoothly between G, C, D, and A (or the notes that work on bass and fiddle)

Practice Jam Skills at Home!

17 songs, just 4 chords and SLOW tempos. This video will help you prepare for your first jam class. Read More

Watch a class...

..and hear what students and teacher say! Watch Now!

Pete Wernick

("Dr. Banjo"), originator of Banjo Camps and Bluegrass Jam Camps

Pete Wernick has created a method based on his years of experience teaching jamming. Wernick Method teachers are certified by Pete based on knowledge of bluegrass, teaching ability, and proper use of the Wernick Method. Pete's Full Bio

Make friends with music, make music with friends!

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