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Spring inevitably leads to summer, and summer inevitably leads to a quandary for parents: what to do with the kids when school is out.

Kristin from Wallingford’s Creative Music Adventures suggests Rock Star Camp or Jazz Camp:

Rock Star Camp: This camp will be a fun exploration of popular music for kids. Participants will be grouped according to their playing level and experience. Each group will rotate through different pods where they will learn contemporary, child friendly songs on different instruments. Instruments will include piano, drums and guitar. Campers will learn about chords, sight-reading, ear training and ensemble playing. The campers will be able to play in “bands” where they will record a music video of the songs they work on throughout the camp. The camp will work on valuable music concepts as well as skills children can apply to other activities. The campers will learn the importance of working well with others, communicating effectively and helping one another understand new concepts.

Jazz Camp offers music students the opportunity to spend a week playing with a jazz combo. Professional jazz musicians and educators will coach the groups. Campers can register individually or as a pre-formed combo. Each student will get personal attention on their instrument as well as feedback on what their role is with a jazz combo. There will be sessions on improvisation for students interested in soloing. Rhythm section players will be able to explore voicings, bass lines and different types of time feels associated with jazz. There will be listening examples as well as performances by faculty to demonstrate the key points discussed for each ensemble. This camp will be “hands on.” We work in small groups so each student can build the confidence needed to play jazz. Each combo will record a Youtube video performance at the end of the week.

Here’s a video from last year’s class:

More info on the CMA web site. Rock on.