Carnegie Hall will be offering the following selection of classes in upcoming weeks:
Woodturning 101 (in partnership with Lee Street Studios) – This five-week introductory course meets Saturdays, Apr. 11 and 18, and May 2, 9, and 16 from 9 a.m. to noon. Taught by rotating instructors from the West Virginia Woodturners Association (WVWA), the class is open to adults 18 and older and limited to just four students for individualized instruction. Participants will learn safety, tool use, sharpening, wood preparation, and the complete process of turning, sanding, and finishing a wooden bowl. Cost: $200 for members / $250 for nonmembers, plus a $35 WVWA membership fee (paid directly to WVWA).
Traditional Face Jugs – On Saturday, Apr. 11 from 12 noon to 4 p.m., ceramic artist Sean O’Connell leads a hands-on workshop exploring the history and creation of traditional face jugs. Open to age 16 and older, the class introduces hand-building techniques while connecting participants to a rich Appalachian folk art tradition. Finished pieces will be glazed and fired for later pickup. Cost: $65 for members / $75 for nonmembers.
The Art of Fencing – Carnegie Hall introduces a five-week beginner fencing series led by Dr. Russell Amundson, meeting Tuesdays, Apr. 7, 14, 21, 28, and May 5 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Open to age 12 and older, the class provides instruction in footwork, bladework, and strategy while exploring the history and discipline of fencing. Equipment is provided (limited protective gear available). Cost: $225 for members / $250 for nonmembers, with a $125 student scholarship rate.
Wheel Throwing Clay for Beginners – This six-week introductory series meets Tuesdays, Apr. 7, 14, 21, 28, and May 5 and 19 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. (no class May 12). Open to age 17 and up, the course covers clay preparation, centering, and creating foundational forms such as cylinders, bowls, and plates, along with glazing and finishing techniques.
Cost: $225 for members / $250 for nonmembers.
Wheel, Too! Intermediate Throwing Clay – Meeting Thursdays, Apr. 9, 16, 23, 30, and May 7 and 21 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. (no class May 14), this six-week intermediate series is designed for students with prior wheel experience. Participants will explore advanced techniques including larger forms, closed vessels, throwing off the hump, and two-part construction.
Cost: $225 for members / $250 for nonmembers.
Hanging Birdhouse Basket – On Friday, Apr. 10, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., regional basketmaker Kathy Talley will lead a full-day intermediate workshop for participants age 16 and older. Students will create a functional and decorative woven birdhouse basket using traditional techniques, including shaping and weaving back to form an opening. All materials are provided.
Cost: $135 for members / $155 for nonmembers, with automatic scholarships available reducing tuition to $75.
All classes are intentionally small to ensure personalized instruction, and many are expected to fill quickly. Early registration is strongly encouraged. Carnegie Hall invites community members to take part in these enriching experiences – whether learning a traditional Appalachian craft, exploring the ceramic arts, or stepping onto the fencing strip for the first time.
To register or for more information visit www.carnegiehallwv.org or call 304-645-7917.
Carnegie Hall WV is a nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala. The Hall is located at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg. For more information, please call 304-645-7917 or visit www.carnegiehallwv.org.
