Bluegrass Camp for Kids

Presented by Tamarack Health

Monday, July 29 |Tuesday, July 30 | Wednesday, July 31
Youngsters - join us at the Tent for 3 days of pickin' and grinnin' with master musicians and stars of the Blue Canvas Orchestra! Geared toward youth ages 7-17, campers can choose to take lessons on guitar, banjo, fiddle, bass, mandolin, or singing & songwriting. 
Both individual and group participation will be part of this experience, with fun for everyone at all levels from total beginner through advanced. You'll even get to form your own band! Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to learn from the Pros!

A Typical Day at Camp

9:30am
10:00am
10:30am
11:15am
11:30am
12:15pm
1:00pm
1:45pm
2:30pm
3:00pm
(First Day Only) Check-in & Registration
Morning Activity
Lesson Block 1
Snack Break
Group Activity Session
Lunch Break
Lesson Block 2
Jam Band Sessions
Afternoon Activity
​(Monday & Tuesday Only) End Time. (Wednesday) Final Concert for Parents.

Course Offerings

Each camper will choose two instruments they would like to study, plus one alternate. We will make every effort to get you into the class you request. All students will also participate in a "band jam" class where everyone comes together to work up songs with their fellow campers. On the third and final day of camp, campers will perform together for friends and family.
​
Each student should select their two top choices, and one alternate. 
BANJO 1, 2, 3 (Beginner to Advanced)
BASS 1, 2, 3 (Beginner to Advanced)
FIDDLE 1, 2, 3 (Beginner to Advanced)
GUITAR 1, 2, 3 (Beginner to Advanced)
MANDOLIN 1, 2, 3 (Beginner to Advanced)
SINGING & SONGWRITING (All Levels)

Enrollment Info

Requirements
To enroll in Bluegrass Camp for Kids your child must be between the ages of 7-17, and they must be available to attend camp for all three days. 

We accept campers from all levels of experience. Whether they've never played an instrument before, or they have been learning music for a number of years, campers of any skill level with earn valuable experience and music knowledge during the three-day camp.

​Campers are not required to have their own instruments though they are welcome to bring their own if they choose. 
Tuition
Early bird tuition before June 30th is $175 per camper. After June 30th, tuition is $200 per camper. 
Scholarships
We want to ensure that every camper can afford to attend. If you would like to apply for a scholarship to help cover registration fees, please contact our camp administrator at [email protected] with the subject line "Bluegrass Camp for Kids Scholarship Request."
Payment
Payment can be made online, in person at the Big Top Box Office, or over the phone once your registration has been processed by camp staff. You will receive an email with further payment information along with your enrollment confirmation. 

Tuition fees must be paid by Friday, July 26, 2024. If payment is not received by the deadline your camper's enrollment may be cancelled. 
Registration
Registration is now closed for summer 2024, as we have reached capacity. 
Course Placement
Campers will receive their class/instrument placements during check in on the first day. While it is not a common issue, it may not always be possible for campers to get placed with both of their preferred instrument choices due to instrument availability/demand. We will make every effort to place your camper in their preferred classes or will work to find the best solution/alternative if it is not possible. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What ability level should I sign up for?
Guess your best on the class level. The instructors will be able to tell what instruction you need to progress. If the class is too easy, we will advance you to the correct level. There will be opportunity for individual instruction within the course of the day as well.
Do I need to have my own instrument?
We encourage everyone to bring their own instrument if they have access to one. If you have access to an additional instrument that would like to own for use during camp, please let us know on your registration form.
I don't own an instrument. Can I borrow one? Should I rent?
Understandably, many children may not have those instruments readily at hand.  We will have instruments available on site for campers to use during the course of camp. ​
Are any additional materials given to students?
Bluegrass Camp will provide a songbook for each student that you will be able to keep. It includes bluegrass and folk tunes appropriate for levels from beginning to advanced. It may be helpful for each student to bring a recording device if you have one to record lessons and performances.
Are meals provided?
Campers should bring their own bagged lunch. Bluegrass camp does not provide lunch, however bottled water and light snacks are provided daily. If your camper has any allergies or dietary requirements, please indicate so in the registration form. ​
Is Bluegrass camp a sleepaway camp?
Bluegrass is a Day Camp that runs over the course of 3 days. Big Top Chautauqua does not provide accommodations for campers. For families visiting from out of town, find places to stay near Big Top here. 
Is transportation provided for campers?
Parents & guardians are responsible for arranging transportation for their camper(s) to and from the tent. Please be aware, public transportations options to the tent are limited during weekdays. 
How can I connect with other parents prior to camp?
A private Facebook group monitored by camp staff has been setup, so that parents have a space to connect with one another before and during camp. A link to the private group will be included along with your enrollment confirmation. 
Additional Questions?
For additional questions, please contact [email protected] or call the Big Top Office at (715) 373-5552.

Looking for more information?

For further information about the Bluegrass Camp, please contact the Big Top Office at (715) 373-5552 or email us at [email protected]