Now is the time to start registering for summer camps, and I often get asked by parents for recommendations. This year, I am directing everyone to the Ovations Summer Strings Academy, hosted at George Mason University!

https://masonacademy.gmu.edu/summer/music-camps/strings/ Summer strings camp for Grades 7-12 at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA

There are many deciding factors when choosing a strings camp: duration, after hour options, age range, location, and what they have to offer. Many camps offer between 1 to 6 weeks of tuition. Some have an ‘extended’ day for parents who work a little later than the camp runs. Some accept students of all ages. So why choose Ovations?

Let’s look at the practical side first.

Age range: rising 7th through 12th grade
Dates: Sunday, June 23 through Friday, June 28
Times: Sunday - 1:00pm to 6:00pm
Monday through Friday - 9:00am - 4:00pm*
*Thursday and Friday, evening concerts after camp hours
Tuition: $430
Location: GMU Fairfax Campus, Performing Arts Building

There is also an extended day option for an extra $90 for the week. This is so that your child can stay on campus - supervised - until 6:00pm.

So what makes Ovations unique from the other summer camps in this area?

This camp focuses on both orchestral and chamber music. Kids who are enrolled in orchestra at school will have had plenty of experience playing in a group of 50+ musicians, but they rarely (if ever!) have the opportunity to play in a trio, quartet, or quintet.
The teachers are stellar. They have faculty members from the GMU School of Music, as well as guest conductors from the American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras.
The participants perform in 2 concerts. Yes, two! One chamber, and one orchestra.
Participants also attend guest talks and performances.

For more information, check out their website. Register here. I hope to see you there!