The Wernick Method, the bluegrass jamming learning system developed by banjo player Pete Wernick, has reached a stunning milestone. Originally taught by Pete himself and now offered by a network of teachers all over the world, Wernick Method jam classes have now been attended by a total of 20,000 students!
Wernick made his name initially as a picker, and came to prominence as a founding member of Hot Rize. He also became a very popular workshop leader for banjo players at various levels, but it has been his Wernick Method for teaching new players how to jam together that have really caught on.
Most of us who have learned a bluegrass instrument can relate to the feeling of knowing how to play a handful of solos for popular songs and tunes, but have little to no idea what to do the rest of the time in a setting with other musicians. Pete came up with a way to show relatively inexperienced musicians on the various bluegrass instruments how to play along together, opening the door to the jamming experience for people of every age.
Rather than hold the method to himself and the limited number of jam workshops he could teach on his own, Wernick now certifies other instructor in the process, and helps them to offer Wernick Method jam classes where they live. Dozens of people now host these classes, often in their homes, and thousands of people are learning how to participate in jam sessions through this process.
Pete creates materials to be used which are made available to Wernick Method teachers, and handles the registration and payments, plus publicity, for a 15% share of the proceeds.
New instructors are always welcome to participate once they are certified, which can be done online. Details about becoming certified can be found online.
Future jammers looking for a class can also locate one at the Wernick Method web site.
