A band camp can refer to a variety of different types of camps, most of which are geared toward children and focus on practicing musical instruments, receiving specialized instruction, and playing in ensembles. A camp like this can focus on a variety of topics or be highly specialized. You could, for example, enroll in a band camp that focuses on orchestral or jazz music. Alternatively, some band camps offer a variety of training options at the same time. A percussionist, for example, might go to a band camp where he or she can join a jazz band, a symphonic band, or a full orchestra. What is offered is largely determined by the length of the camp and the teachers who participate.
Most band camps, like many other types of camps, take place during the summer. The length of a band camp varies. Some are only for a weekend, while others can last for a few weeks or even a month. The cost varies greatly. A full summer band camp can be expensive, but it is a fantastic experience for children. A one-week camp could cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars in the United States (USD). Summer band camps will be the most expensive, costing upwards of $10,000 USD, if not more.
In order to prepare for the upcoming year of performance and play, a school orchestra or junior symphony may hold a weekend camp or retreat. Aside from rigorous practice, students are frequently assigned to their “chairs” for the year, which determine the types of roles they will play. During this time, any instrument’s first chair is usually auditioned for. In a camp like this, the more competitive kids may feel pressured to have higher designations throughout the year and be very focused on being placed above their peers. Even though the goal of this type of band camp is to bring the musicians together mentally as well as musically, this doesn’t always result in the best “camp” spirit.
Attendees at summer band camps that are not affiliated with a specific orchestra or school may be more relaxed. A band camp may also offer other typical summer camp activities, such as hiking, swimming, and arts and crafts, in addition to musical practice. However, the majority of the time will be spent on improving as a musician.
Perhaps you didn’t have the opportunity to go to band camp as a kid and still wish you had. Adult band camps, usually one-week sessions, are now available for many in the United States, allowing adults to work on perfecting their musicianship and playing in ensembles. Some of the most popular are jazz camps, which offer a week of lessons and practice in learning how to improvise and play jazz to people with little or no musical experience. Music appreciation and history sessions, as well as opportunities to practice, may be included in such camps.