The Camptown Shakers

The Camptown Shakers perform the early minstrel style of music in a way that is faithful to the original form. The sound of the fiddle and banjo is a classic combination, but with the addition of percussion the more primitive rhythmic sound of the early minstrel band is heard. The “Shakers” instruments include early 5-string banjo, fiddle, bones, and tambourine. The fretless banjos are strung with the gut strings of the period, tuned down low and played in the minstrel or “stroke” style. The fiddle is bowed in the traditional manner, fit to send dancers to their feet or provide accompaniment for a song. The ambourine and bones shake and rattle, driving the music and giving the band its name.

Enjoy listening to the Camptown Shakers on the Pennypacker mansion porch throughout the weekend and at the Evening Lantern Tours. Scheduled performances listed in the Schedule of Events.