a California Non-Profit 501(c)(3) Corporation – EIN 99-3474773
a California Non-Profit 501(c)(3) Corporation – EIN 99-3474773
Instructor(s): Greg Blake & Michaela Mae
An immersive workshop in voice, harmony, and the high lonesome sound
Our voices are the only instruments we carry with us wherever we go, and yet for many, they remain a mystery. In this deeply engaging vocal intensive, Greg Blake—2023 IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year—joins forces with acclaimed vocal coach and performer Michaela Mae to offer a transformative experience that explores the mechanics, expression, and soul of the singing voice.
Drawing from Greg’s deep Appalachian roots and acclaimed bluegrass career, alongside Michaela’s extensive training in vocal anatomy and years of teaching experience, this class is designed to empower singers of all levels who are ready to dive deeper into both technical skill and stylistic nuance.
Through a mix of group exercises, hands-on coaching, and communal singing, students will build foundational tools and explore:
Whether you’re curious about the mechanics of your voice, hoping to lead a tune around the campfire, or aiming to deepen your connection to the Appalachian vocal tradition, this class is for you. You’ll sing with others, strengthen your technique, and walk away with practical tools to help your voice grow and thrive.
From soaring harmonies to the high lonesome cry of bluegrass, Greg and Michaela will guide you with warmth, humor, and a deep love for the music. Together, they create an inspiring space where every voice is welcome, and every singer can grow.
All singing levels welcome!
Greg Blake is a celebrated bluegrass vocalist and guitarist, known for his rich Appalachian roots and powerful, emotive voice. Born and raised in West Virginia, Greg is the 2023 IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year and a five-time SPBGMA Guitarist of the Year. A longtime fixture in the bluegrass scene, he currently fronts Greg Blake & Hometown and serves as lead singer and guitarist for the Grammy-nominated Special Consensus.
His solo work—including the acclaimed albums Songs of the Heart and Home and People, Places, and Songs—highlights his deep connection to tradition, family, and faith, with a voice called “a singer’s singer” by industry greats. His collaborations with artists like Claire Lynch, Laurie Lewis, and Amanda Cook have earned him critical acclaim and fan adoration. Known as a “singer’s singer,” Greg brings both technical knowledge and emotional depth to every note, connecting tradition with timeless storytelling.
Michaela Mae is the founder of The Folk Farm Music School in Sebastopol, CA. At The Folk Farm, Michaela offers private lessons in voice, guitar, piano, and songwriting, as well as group classes in bluegrass jamming, folk jamming, duet singing, and guitar.
With over 25 years of study in classical and contemporary vocal techniques and more than 15 years of professional performance experience, Michaela brings a rich depth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her teaching. What makes her vocal teaching style unique is her extensive understanding of vocal anatomy and body mechanics. She incorporates this expertise into her lessons and workshops, helping students develop strong, healthy singing techniques by building awareness of the physical foundations of their voice. This approach ensures that students not only improve their vocal and musical abilities, but also cultivate sustainable skills for long-term growth.
Michaela is dedicated to empowering her students to sing and with strong technique, authenticity, and expressiveness, helping them connect deeply with their music—and themselves.