January 11 – 18, 2026

Led by Peter McLaughlin and Chris Brashear

Elkhorn’s music weeks have stretched beyond the popular Old-Time Music Workshop to include a second week with an open-minded folk orientation led by Peter McLaughlin and Chris Brashear. There will be afternoon lessons and jam sessions after dinner. Old-Time music leaders Sandol and Rory will stay on for this week to continue playing music with good friends.

To provide focus, we will reach out to participants to gather a handful of favorite tunes to assemble into a songbook for the week. Lesson sessions can include the opportunity for individuals or small groups to practice these tunes and learn more about how to play with a group comfortably. In addition, our workshop leaders are accomplished performers who will treat us to a few mini-concerts throughout the week.

ABOUT PETER AND CHRIS

Peter McLaughlin is an acclaimed acoustic guitarist, songwriter, vocalist, performer, recording artist and music instructor located in Tucson, AZ. He plays many genres and styles, and specializes in acoustic flatpicking and fingerpicking techniques. Chris Brashear plays fiddle, mandolin and guitar and is a singer with a wide vocal range and a clear, distinctive voice – he is also a songwriter. Chris divides his time between Amherst, MA and Tucson.

In the desert southwest and beyond, Chris and Peter perform together frequently. Their latest CD release is called Desert Heart, Mountain Soul. This duo also hosts the Tucson Opry, a seasonal variety show with local, regional and national artists. And for fans of music and the outdoors, Chris Brashear and Peter McLaughlin host music and river trip excursions on the San Juan River in southern Utah and on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon and now here at Elkhorn Ranch!

Learn more About Peter and About Chris

* Elkhorn has two guitars and a string bass available to borrow and we can connect you with instrument rental stores in Tucson and arrange for pick up and return of the instruments

* Note that there is no extra charge for this workshop

MORE WORKSHOPS + EVENTS

OLD-TIME MUSIC
JANUARY 11 – 18, 2026

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
JANUARY 18 – 25, 2026

DESERT LANDSCAPE ART
JANUARY 25 – FEBRUARY 1, 2026

Coming Into Balance: Exploring Relationships Through Horsemanship
FEBRUARY 1 – 8, 2026

HUMAN HISTORY OF THE ALTAR VALLEY
FEBRUARY 8 – 15, 2026

KATE AITCHISON – ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
APRIL 14 – 25, 2026 (TO BE CONFIRMED)

WORKSHOPS + EVENTS PAGE

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