Resource person: Pam Shortall - Pshortall@meritmusic.org

Location: West Loop - Joy Faith Knapp Music Center | 38 South Peoria Street, Chicago, IL, 60607

Description:

Make friends, memories, and beautiful music at Camp Merit! Camp Merit brings all of Merit’s large ensembles together—band, choir, and orchestra—for 2 fun-filled weeks. Each student will select a track (band, choir, or orchestra) based on their main area of study. Band and orchestra students who enjoy singing also have the option to add the choir track to their schedules. 

During camp, your child will build skills during rehearsals and have the opportunity to try something new in our engaging elective classes that range from West African Drumming to Songwriting. After spending 2 weeks having fun and refining their skills with the support of Merit's celebrated faculty, the camp will conclude with a final performance for family and friends—empowering students to take pride in how much they’ve learned and grown. 

Choose a Camp Merit track (Note: Choir can be an add-on to Band or Orchestra Track):

• Band Track (Brass, Percussion, & Woodwinds): Best for students who have studied a band instrument for a minimum of 2 years (at Merit or elsewhere). No teacher recommendation or placement audition required! Campers will have the opportunity to study with Merit's Symphonic Band Director, Steven Gooden, as well as play fun, familiar music and conduct the band during rehearsals.
• Choir Track: Best for students ages 8-14 who are excited to sing and make music together. Beginners welcome! Campers will have the opportunity to explore a range of musical genres and styles, singing both familiar tunes and discovering new music along the journey! 
• Orchestra Track: Best for students ages 8 and up who have studied their string instrument for a minimum of 3 years (at Merit or elsewhere) and are comfortable sight-reading. Campers will immerse themselves in various kinds of music under the guidance of our renowned orchestra directors and string faculty. They'll also have the chance to connect, collaborate, and form friendships with fellow students hailing from various parts of the city!

Camp electives (each camper takes 2):

• African Drumming
• Conducting
• Drumline
• Intro to Guitar
• Intro to Improvisation
• Intro to Piano
• Intro to Songwriting
• Musical Theater

Learn more about how electives work.

Questions? Visit our Student & Parent Resources page and don’t hesitate to contact us at studentservices@meritmusic.org. 

Don’t forget your instrument! Band and orchestra students will need their own instrument before the first day of camp. Check out Merit's Music & Instrument Library to learn about your instrument rental options.

Mandatory membership(s):

• Summer 2025 Registration Fee

Available spots: 50/50

Price: $630.00 Taxes waived

Required age: 8 - 16 years old on the day of the activity

Tags: Beginners Voice

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