Some 250 music-loving campers and a wide range of professional and amateur instructors are set to turn Quest University’s campus into a musical summer camp next month.
For its 31st season, the West Coast Amateur Musicians Society (WCAMS) is hosting its popular weeklong summer music camp for the first time in Squamish from July 20 to 27.
“In the past we’ve had the camp at Trinity Western in Langley and elsewhere,” said Hilary Crowther, director of public relations for WCAMS. “But with the number of campers we have, plus our faculty, we needed a place that could handle a fairly large conference and Quest seemed ideal.”
The annual summer camp offers a diverse curriculum with literally something for almost any amateur musician.
“Our focus is on vocal, chamber and orchestral music,” she said. “But people also have the chance to try other things like Celtic music or jazz ensembles or musical theatre. We also have a guitar class by a young rock guitarist, conducting and recorder classes. It’s really varied.”
The students at the camp come in a wide variety as well, ranging from six year olds to senior citizens. All levels of musical ability are welcomed, from beginners who have only just taken up an instrument or started singing, to those with years under their musical belts.
“People do need to be able to read music, though,” she said, “although, because we do get some people who don’t read music, we do offer a music theory course, as well. Typically people take about six sessions a day for the week. Usually people end up wanting to take more classes than they are able to in one day. There is a lot going on.”
She said the camps are a great place to make new friends and share musical interests.
“People who have music for a hobby are just interesting people,” she said. “And it’s a very safe, friendly environment with a real community feel.”
Squamish residents get a good deal on the summer camp, and they don’t even need to pack a toothbrush.
“Locals don’t need to camp, so it’s very convenient,” said Crowther, who grew up in Squamish. “And it is $900 normally for the week, but Squamish residents only pay $700, and lunch and dinners are provided. Anyone over the age of 14 can also attend without an adult, so it’s a great opportunity for high school-aged kids.”
She said she hopes lots of local amateur musicians take the opportunity to check out the camp so it can return to Quest in the years to come.
“At the end of the camp we’ll be handing out a questionnaire to see if participants like the new location,” she said. “We would certainly love to be coming back to Squamish for the next 30 years.”
For info visit www.wcams.com.
