Birch Creek Offers ‘Camps’ for Adults

Birch Creek Music Performance Center, nationally known for its summer music academy for advanced student high school musicians, has expanded its programming to include two music programs for adults: Adult Band Camp (Aug. 15-18) and Chamber Music Retreat (Aug. 22-24.)

The Adult Band Camp has attracted adult musicians from five states. Past attendees are community band members, band teachers and other active amateur players; all enjoy the love of music-making and the retreat setting at Birch Creek. Co-directors are Charles (Chip) Staley, Birch Creek’s Jazz Band Directors, Jim Stombres and Steve Sveum.  Active instrumentalists are encouraged to apply, as there is still availability in most band sections.

The Chamber Music Retreat is accepting applications from adult musicians of an intermediate playing ability and higher. Ricardo Castañeda, program director for Birch Creek’s Symphony Session along with Emmalee Holmes-Hicks, faculty violinist, are program coordinators. Designed for wind, string and piano ensembles, adult musicians will study with faculty/performing artists Thursday through Saturday. Onsite dorm housing is available on a first come, first served basis. Both programs culminate with concert performances that are free and open to the public. The Adult Band Camp concert takes place on Aug. 18 at 2 pm in the Dutton Concert Barn. Chamber Music Retreat musicians will perform in Juniper Hall on Aug. 24 at 7 pm. For registration information, visit birchcreek.org/adult-programs.