General Information

 

 

Arrival and Departure

Registration is between 4:00 and 5:30 on Sunday, June 15, followed by dinner, and a Suzuki play-in for all students. Camp ends on Friday, June 20 after lunch.  Registration for the Chamber Music Institute is Sunday, June 15 from 12:00-12:30 and rehearsals begin at 1:00 PM.

 

Daily Schedule

Classes are scheduled between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM. Each student’s schedule is unique, depending on their playing level and elective classes. Typically, students have a combination of morning and afternoon classes, with free blocks of time for practice or recreation. 

 

Preparation

A repertoire list for each instrument is posted in Camp Information 2025. These pieces should be practiced and ideally played from memory. All students should have a polished piece and a working piece for their private lesson masterclass.  A polished piece is memorized, fluent, and has been played for a period of time.  A working piece is still in the stage of refinement and polishing.

 

Solo Recitals

All students have the option of playing on a solo recital, but it is not required. Students should only register for a recital if they have a polished piece that is well prepared by the first day of camp and ready to perform. Recital piece changes may be made until June 1, after that date you may only withdraw from the recital.

 

Concerts/Evening Activities

Evening activities include a family variety show, faculty concert, traditional music & dance night, and a bonfire/marshmallow roast.

 

Siblings

Siblings who are not registered as regular  students are welcome to attend camp, and can have an enriching experience by taking elective classes, participating in recreation and evening activities, and attending concerts.

 

Parent Supervision

Students must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver who will be responsible for them at all times.  For young students the ideal situation is one adult per participating student, but when this is not possible the parent may need to move between classes.  Parents of younger students should plan to attend at least the masterclass and group class.

 

Teen Cottage

Students age 12 and older have the option of staying in a supervised teen cottage. Students are supervised by experienced adult counselors, and have some special  teen activities.

 

Accommodations

Housing is in the renovated Maryland House, Pennsylvania House, and nearby cottages.  There are various configurations of rooms to meet the needs of families of all sizes, although certain room types fill up faster than others.  All rooms have private baths with a shower.  There is no air-conditioning, but nights are typically comfortable.

 

Meals

Meals are served in the historic dining room, and a  vegetarian option is provided.  If you have specific dietary needs, please contact us 4 weeks in advance to make sure you can be accommodated.  Participants have the option of eating in the dining hall or outside.

 

Commuters

We encourage families to stay at Shrine Mont, which allows students to get the most out of the camp experience.  If you choose to commute or stay off campus, there is a per-person commuter fee for use of the facilities and recreation.  The commuter fee does not include meals- you may eat on your own or purchase individual meals at the hotel desk. (Breakfast $14/Lunch $16/Dinner $18)

 

Communication/Technology

Cell phone service in Orkney Springs can be inconsistent, but there is wireless internet access in the lobby.  There are no televisions in the rooms or common areas.  We strongly encourage parents to commit to a technology-free week for their children and teens, as the use of devices changes the nature of the experience for everyone.  Please help to support each other in creating a special environment of music, play, and social interaction.

 

Recreation Opportunities

Recreation facilities include a large outdoor pool with fountains and gradual entry, (lifeguard on duty), miles of hiking and fitness trails, biking, tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts.  There is also Lake Laura, zip lines, and horseback riding facilities nearby.

 

Scholarship

A limited amount of scholarship assistance is available, and is based on financial need.  Please e-mail for information on how to apply by the deadline of April 1.

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