Presented by: Tamarack Health
Grant support by: Wisconsin arts board | Chequamegon bay arts counil

NOW 4 DAYS! July 20 - July 23

Youngsters - join us at the Tent for 4 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 AND perform on stage at The Big Tent! Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to learn from the Pros!

2026 Registration Open NOW!

REGISTER HERE

After transaction is complete you will receive a registration questionnaire and confirmation via email.

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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

Check-in & Registration (First Day Only) ​

Morning Activity

Lesson Block 1

Snack Break

Group Activity Session

Lunch Break

Lesson Block 2

Jam Band Sessions

Afternoon Activity

DAY 1, 2 & 3: End Time. DAY 4: 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.
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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)

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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 $200 per camper. After June 30th, tuition is $225 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:

Sarah Lewis
[email protected]
General Manager, Big Top Chautauqua

Payment

Payment can be made online, in person at the Big Top Box Office or over the phone.

Registration

Registration open for summer 2026! 

REGISTER HERE

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. 

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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 any additional instruments that you would like to loan 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. 

Additional Questions?

For additional questions, please contact [email protected] or call the Big Top Office at (715) 373-5552.

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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]

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