Ways to learn

PRIVATE LESSONS | In-person & Online

Known for her clear teaching style and deep understanding of traditional music, Dakota brings a thoughtful, encouraging approach to every lesson. A lifelong student of folk music, she committed herself to full-time music instruction in 2017 after returning to her home state of West Virginia. As her student base grew, she founded The Cat and The Fiddle in 2019, a traditional roots music school in Capon Bridge, WV, where she continues to teach old-time fiddle and clawhammer banjo to students of all ages.

With a background in both old-time music and classical violin, Dakota blends technical foundation with traditional repertoire to offer students a well-rounded musical education. Much of her teaching is done by ear, in keeping with the folk tradition, while music theory and reading are introduced as students advance. Dakota welcomes students ages 7 and up.

PATREON:

Through Patreon, Dakota offers an affordable way to explore fiddle in a flexible, self-paced format. For a $10 monthly subscription, members gain access to a carefully organized archive of 100+ pre-recorded classes, videos, and folk tales, along with a growing library of exclusive new content. It’s a valuable resource for students and folk music enthusiasts looking to deepen their learning from anywhere. Learn more at patreon.com/dakotakarper.

Camps & Workshops:

Dakota is highly regarded for her clear teaching style and skill in breaking down challenging tunes and concepts. She has taught at respected camps and workshops including Augusta Heritage Center (WV), Common Ground on the Hill (MD), and Fisher Fiddle Camp (PA). Check the calendar for upcoming camps and workshops where Dakota will be teaching, or reach out to inquire about booking her for a camp or event in your area.

Reviews: 

"Dakota's class was well-organized and fun, but it was most notable for giving me a better understanding of how chords mesh with the fiddle tunes and how the fiddler can steer the chords of the rhythm players by choosing drones and double-stops. It was the best explanation that I've heard of chords in the context of fiddle tunes. I would take her class again." - Casey M.  (Augusta Heritage Center | October Old Time Retreat 2023)

"Dakota is an amazing fiddle instructor.  In her intermediate class at Augusta Heritage Center’s October Old-Time retreat, Dakota provided a good mix of technique, theory, and learning new tunes.  She was well-prepared with specific learning objectives and also accommodated the students’ goals.  She followed through, keeping us “on task” so that we could accomplish these goals.  Dakota’s instruction was highly interactive; she frequently asked for the students’ observations and welcomed questions.  I especially appreciated Dakota’s lessons on bowing techniques, chord theory, and starting tunes with “potatoes.” " - Elizabeth R. (Augusta Heritage Center | October Old Time Retreat 2023)