Though Dreamcatcher Events have been putting on their awesome musical getaways for five years now, I only recently learned about them. Which means I’ve missed out on a lot of supercool opportunities already, but now that I know … you have to know too. I spoke to founder, Danny Heaps, about these one of a kind, once in a lifetime, exciting adventures with world renowned artists, and now I just want to attend every single one.
Heaps started Dreamcatcher after catching a Medeski, Martin, and Wood camp near his home in Woodstock, New York. Having a music management background meant that Heaps knew a whole slew of people that could help bring his own rock and roll (and blues, classical, jazz, whatever!) fantasy ideas to fruition. They began with a Zappa Plays Zappa outing with Dweezil Zappa that went over huge, inspiring them to expand to artists and venues all over the country, with designs on going international this year. The camps I’ve already missed have included greats like Richard Thompson, Steve Vai, Todd Rundgren, Steve Earle’s Camp Copperhead … where each attendee is right there in the mix with their favorite performers. They’re not only taking lessons, workshops, seminars, and learning from their heroes, they’re also wining, dining (on great food!), swapping stories and truly immersed in the lifestyle of the artists they admire.
As in the case of the upcoming Rodrigo Y Gabriela’s Musical Adventure this August in Cambria, California. These guitar virtuosos (joined by Kaki King, Guthrie Govan, Sharon Isbin, Marty Friedman, and Struntz & Farah!) will not only blow minds with their beautiful playing, but as they are proponents of yoga practice, wellness workshops, and sourcing and cooking ethical foods, you’ll be enjoying those aspects of their worlds as well. You can even learn Parkour! As Rod and Gaby put it, “Music is a universal language. It speaks to plants, animals, and people. It’s what makes us more human too. We think it’s so important to share that, and that’s a big reason why we jumped at the opportunity to host such a special retreat.” So there you are, jamming with your very favorites, hanging out without barriers, as Heaps says, “We’re all backstage.” For a superfan, what could be better?
Heaps takes pride in the fact that these events are very well-run, bringing people back year after year. The cost is extremely reasonable for the access afforded to you, and the fact that there is a cap on the number of attendees, guaranteeing an intimate experience for everyone involved. The artist hosts all have a passionate following, with inspiration drawn from both sides. People make a real connection as they get comfortable relating to each other, with results in greater learning, and a whole lot of fun (particularly for the Guitar Gods, I’m told. They’re not afraid to party.)
In 2016, you can choose from the Joe Satriani/Steve Vai G4 Experience, the Paul Gilbert Great Guitar Escape, or the Paul Rundgren Tyrolean Getaway. Or maybe Andy McKee’s Musicarium, Steve Earle’s Camp Copperhead, or the aforementioned Rodrigo Y Gabriela Adventure (where if you sign up soon, they’ll throw in a free wah wah pedal!). They are even getting in on the Cuba action this year, with a Tommy Emmanuel Guitar Getaway in Havana! Awesome.
In a time when it’s difficult for artists to make a living simply with their recordings or live shows, this is also a great way to open up a new stream of revenue for the talent, while also bringing so much joy to the fans that get to share in the experience with them. Everybody wins. “These events mean a lot to a lot of people,” Heaps shared. “Some come back year after year, because it’s never the same experience twice. There are reunions.” You can bring the whole family (kids over 16), or you can go and get away from your family, that’s up to you, but all will get something great out of it.
Whatever event you choose, you will never forget it. Dreamcatcher Events is ready for you. Rock on, People!
www.Dreamcatcher-events.com
