Mile of Music
Mile of Music
Celebrating music education and live performance across the Fox Valley —
explore how Heid Music supports the next generation of musicians and
the artists bringing Mile of Music to life.
Be the Music on The Mile
Music is a birthright.
That belief has anchored everything Mile of Music has done since Mile 1 back in 2013. It drives our team of artists, educators, and musical souls, and it points us forward as we bring multicultural workshop experiences to the festival. When you take part in this musical community, you help empower everyone around you to become the music on The Mile.
The Music Education Team, or MET, was founded by Leila Ramagopal Pertl, whose work, advocacy, and humanity gave this idea its shape. In the festival's early days, the Mile of Music team approached Leila about weaving music education into what has grown into an internationally recognized festival. Leila understood that people of every age deserve the chance to make music, so she built a space where the youngest and oldest among us could become the music on The Mile.
It began with just five music educators playing Brazilian samba drums in the rain at Houdini Plaza. Since then, that effort has grown into a team of more than two dozen educators and artists who engage, collaborate with, and teach thousands of Mile of Music attendees each year. The workshop themes shift from year to year, but the MET's dedication to the Mile community never does — always quality, authentic, diverse, and engaging music-making experiences.
Join us. Discover your birthright. Be the music on The Mile.
Workshop Schedule
Every workshop below is free and open to all — just show up and be the music on The Mile.
Music in Motion (All Ages)
First Steps in Music (Ages 0-5 & Caregivers)
Join Ms. Nell (teacher of Early Childhood Music classes at the Lawrence Community Music School) with your littles 5 and under for singing, playing, and moving to great music! Let's get tuneful, beatful, and artful together! (Ages 0-5 and caregivers)
Stories that Sing (Ages 2-10 & Caregivers)
Watch, listen, and interact with our lively musician storytellers as they bring our picture books to life with song, dance and tons of fun! Sessions on Friday and Saturday will feature a different selection of stories. (Ages 2-10 and caregivers).
Blues Guitar
Join award-winning Minnesota blues artist Casey Frensz for a journey back to the roots of so much music we love today. Learn or improve your skills on one of the most versatile musical instruments - acoustic guitar! Beginners to intermediate players welcome. Bring your own guitar or play one of ours!
Bachata Dance
Join Vang and Allison for Bachata dancing! We’ll explore the history of the dance, the instruments involved in the music and teach you to move your body with confidence to both traditional Dominican Bachata as well as Bachata Urbana. No partner or experience needed! You'll learn both simple and intricate patterns that you can take back to teach your family and friends. Whether you are an experienced dancer or a beginner, you’re guaranteed to enjoy this interactive lesson that is fun for all ages!
pBone and pBuzz Jam!
Ever played a pBone? Now's your chance! No experience necessary to jam out on these plastic, brightly colored "brass" instruments! We'll explore styles from funk, jazz, pop, and rock, and end with a community groove anyone can play!
Hip Hop Songwriting
Led by Dominican-American rapper and performer Damien Liriano, this interactive workshop is all about using hip-hop as a tool for expression, connection, and pure confidence. Damien breaks down the art of performance—from writing with intention to owning your energy on stage.Straight out of Appleton, Wisconsin, he’s all about pushing the culture forward from the Midwest and showing you how to find your own unique voice. Expect high energy, real talk, and arguably the best class ever. Find him everywhere @damienliriano. **Friday 7/31 12:00-12:50 - Heid Music; Saturday 8/1 10:00-10:50 - Heid Music
Salsa Dance
Dive into Salsa music and dance with Allison and Vang! Experience the intricate rhythms and instruments that form the backbone of Salsa music in a dynamic and interactive setting that is open to all ages and all levels of experience. Explore the various ways to move to this music with an appreciation for where the music and dance come from. We’ll learn how to connect the basic steps of the dance to the instruments that create this complex music while challenging our bodies to move in new ways (based on elements of Cuban Guaguancó and Yambú). Whether you are a brand new Salsero or an experienced dancer, I guarantee you will learn something new and have a great time enhancing your skills!
Strums and Drums: A Rock and Roll Ukulele Workshop (Ages 12+)
Designed for people who love Rock and Roll, this workshop experience will teach you the basics of the Ukulele and send you right into the genre of Rock and Roll. Come join us for an experience that teaches you music by The Beatles, Queen, Michael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, and special guests, YOU! Yes, you can create Rock and Roll music in just 50 minutes! Bring your Ukulele and jam out with us, if you do not have one, there will be some available.
Songwriting with Steffi B
All ages and all skill levels welcome! Dive into the craft of writing music and lyrics with Steffi B, singer-songwriter and Martian of Porky’s Groove Machine! Focus on the basics of music theory, demystifying lyrics, and discovering and strengthening creativity through the practice of balancing the Inner Creative and the Inner Critic.
Merengue Dance
Come and join our dynamic workshop to explore the vibrant Merengue! Experience the spirited dance moves that define this lively tradition from the Dominican Republic. Perfect for all skill levels, this immersive session promises fun, cultural enrichment, and an unforgettable taste of Caribbean musical heritage. (All ages - bring the whole family!).
All-Abilities Inclusive Music-Making (All Ages)
Embracing all abilities, ages, and populations! Expressive Therapies will be leading us in drumming and making music TOGETHER with live music performed by Mile artists! Get up close and personal with these musicians while you create your own interpretation of the music.
Blues Harmonica Workshop
Step into the wonderful world of the harmonica—one of the most portable, versatile, and affordable instruments. In this heart-opening workshop, you'll connect with your inner music and learn how to take it with you wherever you go. In just 45 minutes, you'll explore the sounds of blues, jazz, and traditional music, unlocking the endless possibilities of this small but mighty instrument. You'll learn essential techniques, uncover the secrets of harmonica playing, and gain the tools to make it your perfect travel companion. Get ready to be inspired and surprised by the power of the harmonica! *please bring your own Harmonica if you have one- a limited supply of instruments sponsored by Fender will be available during the workshop.
Uke Jam with Forte and the Pianissimos
The sounds of Hawai'i in Appleton! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned strummer, experience the joy of the ukulele with this heart warming workshop led by Greg Forton of Forté and the Pianissimos. Within 50 minutes you will learn to play the ukulele and enough chords to play over 3000 popular songs. If you have your own instrument, bring it! If you don’t, there will be some ukes available at the workshop. WARNING! Playing the ukulele will lead too many hours of joy, laughter, and camaraderie. (Ages 10-adult)
Sound Together- Song Circle for Community & Belonging (all ages)
Lift voices and hearts together as we sing songs of healing, belonging, compassion and community. This is a welcoming space for harmonizers, improvisors, movers, dancers and those who may be timid about singing in the circle to experience the powerful connectivity of singing together within our community. (All ages - bring the whole family!)
Intermediate Irish Fiddle workshop
Irish Fiddle music has been moving listeners (and players!) for hundreds of years. The infectious joy and motion of this music tradition comes from the tunes themselves but also the personal interpretation of the musicians! Come learn with award-winning fiddle player, Caitlin Hedge, who will help you create your own interpretations for traditional Irish tunes! Participants will learn stylistic and technical tips for playing Irish fiddle music, including ornaments and bowings, picking tunes up by ear, and accompanying dancers. This workshop is geared towards intermediate to advanced string players of any type! Bring your own instrument, sheet music will be provided.
Balinese Gamelan: Gongs, Drums, and Metalophones
Learn to play music from Bali! Join Balinese Gamelan master teachers and members of the Lawrence Community Music School's community Gamelan group for this perennial Mile favorite. Patterns played on ornate percussion instruments interlock to create a mesmerizing, shimmering sound that has found a home here in Appleton. (All ages - bring the whole family!)
Beat Blueprint: Drumset Workshop
Beat Blueprint: An Introduction to Drum Set with Mya Cymbaluk is a hands-on entry point into the world of acoustic drumming—no experience required. Led by Dixon artist and drumming social media guru Mya Cymbaluk, this session invites you to discover your inner drummer through fun, approachable activities designed to build real music-making skills that last a lifetime. Step away from the screens, pick up a pair sticks and learn the foundations of the drum set in a welcoming, confidence-boosting environment. Along the way, you’ll connect with fellow players, build musical community and experience the joy of live, collaborative jams. If you’ve ever dreamed of drumming but don’t know where to start, this is your chance to get behind the kit.
First Steps in Music (Ages 0-5 & Caregivers)
Join Ms. Nell (teacher of Early Childhood Music classes at the Lawrence Community Music School) with your littles 5 and under for singing, playing, and moving to great music! Let's get tuneful, beatful, and artful together! (Ages 0-5 and caregivers)
Hip Hop Songwriting
Led by Dominican-American rapper and performer Damien Liriano, this interactive workshop is all about using hip-hop as a tool for expression, connection, and pure confidence. Damien breaks down the art of performance—from writing with intention to owning your energy on stage. Straight out of Appleton, Wisconsin, he’s all about pushing the culture forward from the Midwest and showing you how to find your own unique voice. Expect high energy, real talk, and arguably the best class ever. Find him everywhere @damienliriano. **Friday 7/31 12:00-12:50 - Heid Music; Saturday 8/1 10:00-10:50 - Heid Music
Stories that Sing (Ages 2-10 & Caregivers)
Watch, listen, and interact with our lively musician storytellers as they bring our picture books to life with song, dance and tons of fun! Sessions on Friday and Saturday will feature a different selection of stories. (Ages 2-10 and caregivers).
Acoustic Guitar
Learn or improve your skills on one of the most versatile musical instruments - acoustic guitar! Beginners to intermediate players welcome. Bring your own guitar or play one of ours!
Los Ritmos del Mariachi
Ya llego el Mariachi! Mariachi has arrived in the Valley! Now’s your chance to dance, sing and experience the driving rhythms and soaring melodies of Mariachi music! Come dance to the music and fill your hearts and voices with joy as we explore Mexico’s most iconic music. (All ages - bring the whole family!) '
Playground Games (Ages 6-12 & Caregivers)
Everybody get on the Playground! Come out to learn (or remember!) Playground Games of yesterday and today. Join our leaders in hand clapping games, jump roping chants, tinikling challenges and more! Each session will present unique material, so come to both! (Ages 6-12 and caregivers).
Brazilian Samba
Come and groove with us in this powerful aural drumming tradition from Brazil. No drumming experience necessary! Learn about and play the different "voices" of the batteria – or samba band – that combine to stir the soul and make you want to move. (Ages 10-adult).
Intermediate Irish Fiddle Workshop
Irish Fiddle music has been moving listeners (and players!) for hundreds of years. The infectious joy and motion of this music tradition comes from the tunes themselves but also the personal interpretation of the musicians! Come learn with award-winning fiddle player, Caitlin Hedge, who will help you create your own interpretations for traditional Irish tunes! Participants will learn stylistic and technical tips for playing Irish fiddle music, including ornaments and bowings, picking tunes up by ear, and accompanying dancers. This workshop is geared towards intermediate to advanced string players of any type! Bring your own instrument, sheet music will be provided.
Bachata Dance
Join Vang and Allison for Bachata dancing! We’ll explore the history of the dance, the instruments involved in the music and teach you to move your body with confidence to both traditional Dominican Bachata as well as Bachata Urbana. No partner or experience needed! You'll learn both simple and intricate patterns that you can take back to teach your family and friends. Whether you are an experienced dancer or a beginner, you’re guaranteed to enjoy this interactive lesson that is fun for all ages!
Los Ritmos del Mariachi
Ya llego el Mariachi! Mariachi has arrived in the Valley! Now’s your chance to dance, sing and experience the driving rhythms and soaring melodies of Mariachi music! Come dance to the music and fill your hearts and voices with joy as we explore Mexico’s most iconic music. (All ages - bring the whole family!) '
Blues Harmonica Workshop
Step into the wonderful world of the harmonica—one of the most portable, versatile, and affordable instruments. In this heart-opening workshop, you'll connect with your inner music and learn how to take it with you wherever you go. In just 45 minutes, you'll explore the sounds of blues, jazz, and traditional music, unlocking the endless possibilities of this small but mighty instrument. You'll learn essential techniques, uncover the secrets of harmonica playing, and gain the tools to make it your perfect travel companion. Get ready to be inspired and surprised by the power of the harmonica! *please bring your own Harmonica if you have one- a limited supply of instruments sponsored by Fender will be available during the workshop.
Merengue Dance
Come and join our dynamic workshop to explore the vibrant Merengue! Experience the spirited dance moves that define this lively tradition from the Dominican Republic. Perfect for all skill levels, this immersive session promises fun, cultural enrichment, and an unforgettable taste of Caribbean musical heritage. (All ages - bring the whole family!).
Mastering Melody and Rhyme with Steffi B
For the songwriter who understands the basics and is looking for feedback on work and a deeper dive into the craft. Learn more about what may be holding back your creativity, and explore new techniques to level up your musical and lyrical composition.
Balinese Gamelan: Gongs, Drums, and Metalophones
Learn to play music from Bali! Join Balinese Gamelan master teachers and members of the Lawrence Community Music School's community Gamelan group for this perennial Mile favorite. Patterns played on ornate percussion instruments interlock to create a mesmerizing, shimmering sound that has found a home here in Appleton. (All ages - bring the whole family!)
Balinese Dance
Learn Balinese dance! Bali, Indonesia is often known for its stunning and intricate dance traditions, from fierce masked dances to graceful movements used in Balinese Hindu temple dances. In this workshop, participants will gain the basic skills needed for both refined female and strong male characters. From the foundational poses to detailed finger movements and facial expressions, practicing Balinese dance is a fun way to learn about another culture!
Uke Jam with Forte and the Pianissimos
The sounds of Hawai'i in Appleton! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned strummer, experience the joy of the ukulele with this heart warming workshop led by Greg Forton of Forté and the Pianissimos. Within 50 minutes you will learn to play the ukulele and enough chords to play over 3000 popular songs. If you have your own instrument, bring it! If you don’t, there will be some ukes available at the workshop. WARNING! Playing the ukulele will lead too many hours of joy, laughter, and camaraderie. (Ages 10-adult)
Didjeridu
Learn to play the Australian Aboriginal didjeridu! A universe of sounds, all from a log hollowed out by termites. All welcome, no experience needed, didjeridus provided. (All ages - bring the whole family!)
Beat Blueprint: Drumset Workshop
Beat Blueprint: An Introduction to Drum Set with Mya Cymbaluk is a hands-on entry point into the world of acoustic drumming—no experience required. Led by Dixon artist and drumming social media guru Mya Cymbaluk, this session invites you to discover your inner drummer through fun, approachable activities designed to build real music-making skills that last a lifetime. Step away from the screens, pick up a pair sticks and learn the foundations of the drum set in a welcoming, confidence-boosting environment. Along the way, you’ll connect with fellow players, build musical community and experience the joy of live, collaborative jams. If you’ve ever dreamed of drumming but don’t know where to start, this is your chance to get behind the kit.
Playground Games (Ages 6-12 & Caregivers)
Everybody get on the Playground! Come out to learn (or remember!) Playground Games of yesterday and today. Join our leaders in hand clapping games, jump roping chants, tinikling challenges and more! Each session will present unique material, so come to both! (Ages 6-12 and caregivers).
Strums and Drums: A Rock and Roll Ukulele Workshop (Ages 12+)
Designed for people who love Rock and Roll, this workshop experience will teach you the basics of the Ukulele and send you right into the genre of Rock and Roll. Come join us for an experience that teaches you music by The Beatles, Queen, Michael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, and special guests, YOU! Yes, you can create Rock and Roll music in just 50 minutes! Bring your Ukulele and jam out with us, if you do not have one, there will be some available.
Bluegrass Stringband Jam
pBone Brass Band Jam
Ever played a pBone? Now's your chance! No experience necessary to jam out on these plastic, brightly colored "brass" instruments! We'll explore styles from funk, jazz, pop, and rock, and end with a community groove anyone can play!
Brazilian Samba Drumming
Come and groove with us in this powerful aural drumming tradition from Brazil. No drumming experience necessary! Learn about and play the different "voices" of the batteria – or samba band – that combine to stir the soul and make you want to move. (Ages 10-adult).
