Music camp is the perfect opportunity to hone instrument and vocal skills, refine musical knowledge, expand a love of music, and make enduring friendships. The best camps encourage musicians to step outside of their comfort zone and try a new song, piece, or instrument. This keeps students creatively challenged and motivated to come back to the camp year after year.
Whether you want to learn a new instrument, develop your piano skills, explore your vocal abilities, or just have fun playing games and singing silly songs with friends, there is a summer music camp for everyone. Many camps are held at universities or private schools, and offer an experience that is geared to enhance musical skill and knowledge. For example, Lee University’s Summer Music Camp is for rising 9th graders to college freshmen, and offers five different tracks (Music Lovers Track, College Preparatory Track, Worship Leader Track, Chamber Strings Track, and Jazz Track). Each track has a combination of rehearsals, music theory classes, aspects of worship classes, seminar classes, and master classes that fit the needs of each student.
Most importantly, the atmosphere of music day toronto summer music camp is equal parts fun and learning. That creates a positive environment for students to enjoy making music, and it helps keep their interest and excitement in the art alive throughout the school year.
Choosing the right summer program is essential, and the process can be competitive. For example, many students apply to programs like Interlochen, Tanglewood, Brevard, and more, and must pass a series of auditions that are similar to those required to get into a top conservatory.
Other programs have a more relaxed application process, but are still rigorous in the quality of instruction and activities offered. For instance, Third Street Music School in St. Louis offers a seven week summer music & dance institute for children ages 5 – 8 that is affordable and creative. Students learn new instruments from BMS music faculty, and develop dance moves taught by the school’s experienced dance teachers.
The best way to find the perfect summer music camp is to ask around. Talk to friends and family members who have attended music camps in the past, or reach out to your child’s music teacher or private instructor for recommendations. There are also a number of online resources, such as Inside Music Schools, that provide information about various camps and programs across the country. Once you’ve decided on a program, it’s important to plan ahead. Make sure to pack appropriately, and remember to get plenty of rest! Most importantly, have a good time and make memories that will last a lifetime!