Thanks to everybody who has replied, I know it takes some time and thought. Balfa seems to be running ahead in the polls, but no bad choices.
I went to Augusta '99 and was in over my head in Dirk's intermediate class (but I learned a lot).
Anyway, I just talked to Marcia at the Louisiana Heritage office and Ray Abshire is going to teach an advanced class, Dirk Powell will be teaching intermediate, and Corey Ledet will be teaching Creole accordion. Jeffery Broussard is going to be teaching fiddle.
Re: Merci...and the latest un-confirmed information
Is there a web-site for the Balfa workshop? Sounds like the type of instruction a budding young (63) accordion player really needs. Probably too late to sign up for this year, but will have more time next year, anyway. San Antonio and South Texas both leave something to be desired for Cajun accordion playing folks. Luckily, LA is not far away. Had lunch the other day with Bill Rosenthal, formally the accordion man of Swamp Angels. Good meeting. We're going to try to get together some Sunday evening at my place and see if we can get a group interested in kicking some tunes around.. Sheri Foster, Danny Fruge' , and Rick Edwards, if you are out there reading into this site, give me a heads-up. You are all three welcome, plus your spouses, significant others, and assorted band members. Can throw some steaks on the grill and more beer in the cooler.
How come when you play in front of any group of non-believers and neophytes, they all want to hear Jolie Blonde?
I haven't done Augusta. My only experience was Balfa last year. Although I've heard great things about Augusta, I just can't imagine how you could replicate the ambiance of being "there" in the craddle of cajun music in Ville Plate. Something is to be said about the Louisiana Folks Roots Fest going on at the same time, on the same site, which gives you the opportunity to see some of the finest bands and dance the night out until you head to the late/early morning jams by the bond fire. You can also escape the camp and tour around the other towns. We took the opportunity to visit Fred's Lounge in Mamou, drop by some shop to get some boudin, visit the Savoy music centre in Eunice, visit Larry Miller's shop in Iaota, spend a memorable night at Blue Moon Saloon in Lafayette, and many more great memories and interactions. I wouldn't worry about your level. The idea is to get there, immerse yourself, watch and record the masters play, and improve from wherever you are.
I'm not going this year unfortunately... I have other conflicting projects and I had to sacrifice this year's camp. I hope I make it next year. Maz
I haven't been to Augusta but I hear great things about that camp. I have been to Balfa camp and give it two thumbs up. As Maz, Nick and others have mentioned, the location is excellent, with quick access to many places in Acadiana. Another note about Balfa camp is that a lot of musicians drop-in during the week. These folks are not on the schedule (as instructors) but live in the area show up for the evening dances & jams. That being said, I have heard excellent reports about Augusta and Ashokan as well.