Summer music camps are a fantastic way for young musicians to grow their skills, build confidence, and make new friends. As Katie Wreede, director of Camp CMC, explains, “Summer music camps are designed to enhance students’ musical lives by prioritizing fun, teamwork and sharing their unique expertise (musical and personal) with others.” These camps allow students to develop a wide range of skills quickly and are introduced to styles and techniques they might not otherwise experience. Summer camps are also a way for students to keep up their “chops” over the summer, so they arrive at school or their private lessons in the fall not just ready to go, but “starting from a higher plateau and with more imagination and sense of direction.”
CMC summer camps move at a thrilling pace. “With only a week to get to know each other, learn an entire concert’s worth of repertoire, and perform a full-length concert, the pace is quick and invigorating,” says Katie. At CMC Camps, “every song is specially arranged for that year’s group, adjusting the music to fit the skill levels of each student, so there are challenges but nothing insurmountable in 4 days of focused work.” This means that by the end of the week, “every student can take pride in their performance.”
Students work in both small and large groups, creating a strong sense of community. As Katie says, “Students will be part of a section/team playing the same notes together, and sometimes they will be in small groups where they play an individual part that everyone else in the group is relying on hearing.” As students rely on each other more and more, “the music gets better and the sense of a community with a common goal gets stronger.” The faculty also teaches a balance of self-reliance and reliance on others, which “is a wonderful model for life in general.”
The main goal at CMC summer camps is fun, and Katie believes, “All the kids have fun, some improve their playing, and others simply enjoy the experience. In the end, they all leave with a deeper love for making music.”
CMC SPARKS CAMP (Ages 8–12)
A fun introduction to piano, guitar, singing, and rhythm. Students play games and interactive exercises to build confidence and learn simple melodies.
CAMP CMC (Ages 9–14)
An ensemble camp where students explore different musical styles, including Latin, jazz, classical, blues, folk, and rock. Activities include rhythm games, percussion, singing, and movement, ending in a final performance.
RHYTHM AND ROOTS CAMP (Ages 11–14)
A deep dive into jazz and Latin music with instrumental ensemble work, rhythm training, improvisation, and cultural exploration.
CMC CHAMBER MUSIC CAMP (Ages 12–18)
For students interested in classical chamber music, this camp includes daily coaching, master classes, and ensemble skills training, ending with a final recital. Open to both individuals and pre-formed groups.
MARIACHI CAMP (Ages 9–14)
A fun and energetic introduction to traditional Mexican Mariachi music. Students learn to sing and play violin, trumpet, guitar, vihuela, and guitarrón. The camp is taught in both English and Spanish.
MUSICAL THEATER CAMP (Ages 11–14)
In partnership with Pacific Singers & Actors Workshop, this camp gives students the chance to explore singing, acting, and improvisation. Led by professional performers, students prepare musical theater pieces for a final showcase.
Why Choose a CMC Summer Camp?
Katie Wreede sums it up best: .”If you want your child to have fun playing music with other kids over the summer, learn new songs and styles not covered in their school music program, receive guidance from experienced faculty, improve as a musician, and end each day feeling happy, summer music camps are the way to go.” Whether students want to strengthen their skills, challenge themselves in an ensemble, or simply enjoy playing music with friends, CMC summer camps offer an unforgettable experience.
Don’t miss the chance to grow as a musician and make lasting memories—join a CMC summer camp today!