Ring, Sing and Strings!

The Ring, Sing and Strings camp program provides benefits which are as diverse as the backgrounds of the students who participate.  For the novice musician this program provides an opportunity to sample three different musical genres (strings, choral and handbells) to discover where their strongest interest lies.  More experienced students will build upon the one-on-one training and solo performing which they have been involved with throughout the school year with valuable ensemble work and activities which strengthen rhythm skills and musicality. Peer interaction allows for a free exchange of ideas and the opportunity for student mentoring while the inclusion of art, dance and drama training provide balanced arts instruction.  

While all students will receive intensive theory training (music math), conservatory level students may opt to use this instruction as preparation for the August Royal Conservatory of Music exam session.  Our theory training program compacts an entire term's worth of learning into two intensive weeks of instruction at a cost which is far less than either private or small group sessions offered throughout the year.  Without the distraction and stress of school academics students are able to focus more keenly on this important aspect of musical training.  Both the Basic and Intermediate RCM theory levels available.

What is a typical day like at OSME day camp?  Students begin with vocal warm-ups and choral training followed by a rotating cycle of small-group string and theory sessions.  All groups combine for dance and drama training followed by lunch and outdoor games.  Full day students will take part in a second string session and handbell ensemble in the afternoon.  A quick snack and unstructured break time leads into art and set design as students prepare the stage for our multi-genre final performance at the end of the second week.  Additional theory training is available for students requiring extra help or those in the exam program.  Following the 4:00 pick-up students requiring extended care may use this time for self-directed practice, theory homework or quiet time.

"My children learned so much beyond the basics with your music programs.  The innovative practice techniques and motivational ideas were like gold!"  Parent

Program Details:

Ages 8 - 14

July 20th - 31st, 2009 (excluding July 25th and 26th)

Half Day, 9:00 - 1:00 pm $600

Full Day, 9:00 - 4:00 pm $800

Program fee includes tuition, instrument rental (if required) for violin or cello and all music and art supplies. Early drop-off (8:00 - 9:00 am) and late pick-up (4:00 - 5:30 pm) are available on an as-needed basis for a flat fee of $10 per day. Please arrange for the dates on which you will require this service and pay in advance when settling the balance of your tuition. Any unused portion of the extended care payments which are not used will be refunded at the conclusion of the program.

For students wishing to take their Royal Conservatory Theory Exam in August please note that this camp program does NOT include registration or payment for this examination. Please consult the RCM website for payment and calendar details regarding the summer exam schedule.