LEARN ABOUT OUR
ORGANIZATION AND EVENTS
Monthly Meetings
GPDA meets the second Saturday of each month [except, January, September, and December], at New Hope Christian Church, 1400 S George Washington Dr., in Wichita, KS. Social time starts at 9:00 a.m., business meeting at 9:30, jams and workshops follow. Time is alotted for anyone who would like to perform a song or two before we end at noon.
Performances
GPDA has performance groups who offer free concerts as community service.
They usually play several times per month at nursing homes, churches, etc. In December, GPDA plays Christmas music at Botanica and Cowtown in Wichita. Please contact the club president if you are interested in scheduling a performance.
Warm-Up Picnic
The GPDA Warm-Up Picnic (WUP) is held on the 2nd Saturday of September (weekend before the Walnut Valley Festival) and replaces the September general meeting. GPDA has held the WUP at Island Park in Winfield, KS for more than 20 years. The WUP is comprised of a variety of instrument workshops, workshop leader concert, open mic and potluck supper. Attendance to the WUP is free and open to the public, and begins with registration at 9:00 a.m.
Winter Retreat
The GPDA Winter Retreat replaces the January general meeting on the 3rd Saturday of January. The Winter Retreat is an all day long event that begins at 9:00am and lasts until the last musician packs up. It is held at the Disciple Center at Camp Tawakoni, 8492 SW Tawakoni Rd, Augusta, KS 67010. The retreat includes jams, workshops and two potluck meals (lunch and supper). It can be summed up as FUN, FOOD and MUSIC.
Spring Fundraiser
Each spring, GPDA hosts a special concert with performances by individuals and small groups within the club's membership. The concert is open to the public for a donation of any amount.
Watch the blog for details about this event, as it changes from year to year!
Dulcimer Orchestra
GPDA has recently added a dulcimer orchestra program. Members learn parts to classical music or traditional folk songs, are directed by a conductor, and perform at a few events per year. Membership in the orchestra requires a commitment to attend a few extra rehearsals, but has been a fun addition to the club's traditional repertoire.
