I attended my first Getaway in October 2003. Arriving that first day I didn't know anyone by sight and only a few names from the Mudcat (I was fairly new to Mudcat then as well). In no time at all I felt welcomed and at ease. The atmosphere of the Getaway is friendly and supportive in every respect. I attended many workshops and even helped to lead a couple of them.
There is a great diversity of musical styles among the attendees. Sharing sea songs and shanties with the likes of Barry Finn, Bob Zentz and the Shellback Chorus made the weekend for me. Meeting Kendall Morse and Big Mick Lane and so many others was a real treat. I was thrilled to find so many talented voices in one place and time. My wife and I felt like we had come home to a host of new friends.
Besides the concerts and workshops, there is the comraderie of sitting down to eat with new friends and swapping stories and experiences with people from many other locations. I found that I could sing quietly by myself or joyously join a group of 20 or so in a rousing chorus song (The night Theresa and Snuffy lead us all in "Blow the Man Down" will forever remain a highlight of my weekend).
I hope we will be able to attend the Getaway again this year, as with others, money is always a consideration. But if not, then certainly we will return some time in the future. I would encourage every mudcatter to try and attend. This Getaway is truly a magical event that will leave an indelible impression on you when its over.