classes

johnny

I have been thinking about taking a class from a local Bonsai school. *They offer a beginners class that is two 4 hour sessions. *The cost is $100.00, is this the norm, or should I look around more? *I've met the teacher and he seems pretty knowledgeable. *I am fairly new to this, and think I've learned about all I can from just reading books - at least for now. *

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TreeBay

You're definitely approaching the hobby the right way. Getting involved with a teacher or club to get some mentoring is the next step.

Some of the clubs offer free classes, but you may be getting what you pay for. Ask to speak with a past student from the bonsai school, and sound him/her out about the class. Also, find out if the classes are small (6-8 people), it could be well worthwhile, especially of part of that $100 goes for materials.

If you're in a group of twenty, you may not be getting your money's worth, unless the teacher has some assistants to circulate and help students.

In any case, I can guarantee you that the time will fly by.

Regards,

Matt

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johnny

I think you are probably right. The classes only have about 12-13 people. I guess I'll give it a shot, if nothing else at least I'll get a tree and pot!

ripsgreentree

Jonny: Befor you hand out your money, Where are you at. You could get a lot more for your money if you join a good bonsai club. There are always members that will help you along. Also there is more information on this forum than you will get in 50 hours of $100.00 clases. You would be better off to attend some club meetings and meet some new people. That $100.00 class will always be avalible to you, also if you start attending major shows your money might buy you some instruction from a nationally renouned bonsai artest. Slow down and don't be so quick to spend your money. Please don't think that I am rude but I have seen people spend that kind of money and come away with nothing to speak of.
ripsgreentree

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johnny

I'm from Southern Oregon. I've heard of a couple Bonsai clubs here locally, but haven't much success yet in going to a meeting. I'll keep looking though. The school I've been thinking about the class the from says it has some very well known instructors, but I'm new to this and wouldn't know one guy from another! I'm always open for advice, so thanks.

Johnny

bonsaial1

Can you post the names? Maybe we can help you in your decision. Bonsaial

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johnny

The school is the Okiyama School of Bonsai. *Some of the instructors are: *Ben Oki, Dan Robinson, Tak Yamaura, Peter Adams. *What does anyone know of them?

Johnny

TreeBay

They're some of the best teachers you could hope to have. I have heard of all of them, met 2 and have several books from the fourth. Of the group, Dan Robinison is the most controversial, with some avant garde collecting & styling techniques, which is not intended to be a criticism.

TAK YAMAURA http://www.japanbonsai.com/
BEN OKI http://www.bonsai-bsf.com/okiatmorikami.html
DAN ROBINSON http://www.elandangardens.com/
PETER ADAMS Take a look on Amazon.com for any of a dozen books he's written.

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