A belief in the value of music education has been the motivation for the establishment of performance programs for all skill levels and ages.

The Early Years curriculum invites children aged 4 to 7 to participate in a variety of introductory instruments.

The Instrumental program is available to students aged 7 to 15. Instruction is available at all skill levels and is designed to encourage the beginner and challenge the most experienced. A child is allowed to choose an instrument for concentrated study.

The Combination option allows a choice of two instruments.

The Academy program is designed for teens who are ready for a serious approach to learning music. The Academy curriculum provides opportunity for private lessons, performance lectures and participation in large and small ensembles.

Please download the 2008 Niagara Symphony Summer Camp Brochure. Registration form and payment may be sent to:

Niagara Symphony Association
101 King Street, 2nd Floor
St. Catharines, ON L2R 3H6

Early Years Program

(Junior Session only)
Ages 4 to 7


A child’s first experience with music instruments should be fascinating, encouraging and fun. As Early Years Campers discover new abilities, their camp experience excites an enthusiasm for learning.

The Early Years program is available in the morning for 4 & 5 year olds and as a full –day combination program for 6 & 7 year olds.


ORFF
Designed by music educator Carl Orff, this is an active, hands on program which teaches music through songs and movement using pitched and non-pitched percussion instruments. The focus is on rhythmic development.

MUSIC FOR YOUNG CHILDREN (MYC)
A creative introduction to the keyboard as children learn basic note-reading and identification skills. Singing, listening and play activities introduce the notes on the staff and the geography of the piano in a fun setting.

For children ages 6 & 7, the Orff or MYC afternoon class may be combined with a handbells, recorder or choral morning class, to create a full day of camp

RECORDER
As an introduction to wind instruments, the recorder allows a new musician the opportunity for success while teaching note and rhythm performance.

CHORAL
Research indicates that singing influences language development, as well as increasing concentration, memory, visual and listening skills, spatial orientation and physical coordination. Mostly, it’s just great fun!
This is our most popular junior session class and fills quickly so register early.

HANDBELLS
The sound of bells always bring delight. Friendship and cooperation form the basis of a handbell ensemble.

Orchestral Program

(Junior and Senior Session)
Ages 7 to 15

Campers are immersed in the study of an orchestral instrument. Throughout the day each camper receives two hours of individual attention and group instruction in technique and repertoire, according to skill level and experience.
In addition, all students participate in Orchestra, String Ensemble, Beginner Band or Concert Band.
Lessons are available in all orchestral instruments at beginner and experienced levels.

For campers trying a new instrument, parents need to be aware that physical strength may determine a child’s ability to play.

Please note that level placement will be determined on the advice of the instructor.

Combination Program

(Junior and Senior Session)
Ages 7 to 15

Students may combine any two of our half-day courses to create a full day program.

PIANO
Introductory Ensemble: Often a solitary instrument at the early levels, this course offers an opportunity for beginner and preliminary pianists to work in an ensemble setting.
Collaborative Ensemble: Learn techniques and tricks for accompanying both large and small ensembles. (Minimum requirement Grade 3 piano (RCM or CC) and permission of instructor)

CLASSICAL GUITAR
Formerly a full-day course, classical guitar is now offered as a half-day program at beginner and experienced levels.

CHORAL
Choir (Jr. & Sr. Session)
Singing provides an opportunity for expression and choral singing strengthens the sense of community. Join our choir and sing your heart out!

Jazz Vocal (Sr. Session only)
Learn swing, scat, blues, be-bop...styles which give a singer the opportunity to give instrumental qualities to the voice through timbre and tessituras while /wiki/Tessituraallowing the freedom of improvisation.

COMPOSITION/ARRANGING (Senior Session only)
Bach, Beethoven, Stravinsky all had training in the basic elements of composition. What masterpieces lie asleep in your brain waiting for the tools to unlock them? Join our composition/arranging class and give voice to your ideas.

Students need previous experience in theory (minimum RCM preliminary Rudiments or CC Grade 1)

JAZZ (Senior Session only)
In jazz, it is the performer who will interpret a tune in very individual ways, never playing the same composition exactly the same way twice. Depending upon the performer's mood and personal experience, interactions with fellow musicians, or even members of the audience, a jazz musician/performer may alter melodies, harmonies or time signature at will. Jazz is the product of creativity, interaction and collaboration.
Join the jazz class and let your inner self out.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Improvisation

Students need a minimum of two full years of music instruction to be comfortable in this course.
Jazz and Composition courses may be combined with the orchestral program.

HARP
Half Hour Harp Option: Returning as an option for beginning harpists, students enrolled in a full day program will be withdrawn each day from regular class to attend a 30 minute harp class.
Please note: There is an additional $20 fee for this option

THEORY CREDITS
By special arrangements with Conservatory Canada you may study Theory 1,2, 3 and 4 (Equivalent to RCM’s Preliminary Rudiments, Gr.1 and Gr.2) and write the exam at the end of the camp session. Credits are transferable to Royal Conservatory.

An additional charge for materials and exam fee will apply.
Theory may be combined with orchestral programs or other combination programs