2020 WINTER NEWSLETTER - Dreaming of Summer Choir Camp 2020
When it is cold outside and the sun is still at a slant take a moment and remember summer! This is especially poignant for those choir members that have built fond memories around their time at choir camp. Sun-filled days at the pond, crafts on the patio, recitals, dances, ahhhhhh. Fun days.
Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir creates a special place where kids learn so many interesting things that advance their development into creative talented independent individuals. Our singers gain so much more from their choir experience than just learning how to sing. At camp, overcoming homesickness brings both an exciting sense of independence and a deeper appreciation of the family they miss. Also, through the shared camp experience, they learn to coexist with others to create a community of collaboration that defines a choral ensemble.
The camp artistic staff is highly qualified to elevate the choral skills of our singers. The Performing Department campers have one on one and/or group lesson time with high caliber vocal pedagogy coaches to enhance their vocal technique. There is time to dedicate to learning the intricacies of music theory and to apply what they learn by writing compositions. The Training Department campers learn to harmonize and hold their own part while learning fun songs accompanied by props they have created in Arts and Crafts. At the end of camp, they have attained a much higher level of technique and musicianship, and are able to show off those skills at a relaxed parent concert.
The location of our summer camp is fantastic. Walker Creek Ranch is a beautiful retreat away from busy urban lives. The creek to explore, the pond to kayak or swim in, the hills to hike, and the garden to plate food to eat.
We are proud to announce we have been able to keep our costs well below the average cost of Bay Area sleep away camps while maintaining an excellent staff and program! The rising cost of Walker Creek Ranch has made it a significant challenge. With the Marin living wage ordinance plus the upkeep of a beautiful large property, Walker Creek has had to significantly increase their fees. We believe the tradition of this location is beneficial to our program and to our singers and will continue to hold our camps at Walker Creek. Our prices have gone up, but we are dedicated to keeping them below those of other sleep-away camps.
Camp Dates and Tuition
TRAINING DEPARTMENT LEVEL
Camp Joyful Voices
Monday, July 27 - Sunday, August 2, 2020
Tuition: $1,138
PERFORMING DEPARTMENT LEVEL
Ensemble
Wednesday, July 22 - Sunday, August 2, 2020
Tuition: $2,157
Concert Choir
Wednesday, July 22 - Sunday, August 2, 2020
Tuition: $2,157
Ecco
Friday, July 17- Wednesday, July 22, 2020
Tuition: $968
We are building our staff, reviewing our program and planning all kinds of events and projects. As we build staff, we need to find a nurse, nurse practitioner or doctor to be in residence for the duration of the camp (either July 16 - August 2 or July 21 - August 2, 2020.) The camp is one of the most inspired and inspiring parts of our program. If you are interested in this position, or if you know someone who you would recommend we reach out to for this opportunity, please contact, Alice Del Simone (Camp Director) at adelsimone@piedmontchoirs.com. She will be happy to talk you through the daily schedule and help you understand the responsibilities.