Music Settlement offers new summer 'Camp-tacular' program

At 102 years old, The Music Settlement has long been known for its Suzuki, early childhood Music Builders and Musical Theatre camps.

Now, its new Summer Camp-tacular combines elements from these camps and more to provide a wide-ranging experience that gives children a chance to sample a broad spectrum of musical instruments, genres and styles.

“This is the opportunity for young musicians and musicians-in-training to really spread their wings. Nothing beats two weeks of intensive music instruction while bonding with like-minded peers in a beautiful setting,” said Megan Clay Constantine, chair of The Music Settlement’s Center for Music. “We decided to put all of our camps together to give our campers the full musical experience: a smorgasbord, if you will.”

Each day begins with an all-camp morning meeting, after which students are dismissed to their music courses, such as theory, musicianship and sight-reading. After lunch, students organize into ensembles.

“A piano student could take the piano track in the morning, and then spend the afternoon playing in an ensemble or orchestra, or even learn to sing a cappella. The possibilities are nearly endless,” said Arthur Kane, department head for piano at The Music Settlement.

Parents can choose morning, afternoon and full-day options to fit each child’s unique needs and interests, from classical to jazz or rock to hip-hop. The Music Settlement’s long-established camps will also continue to be offered.

Online registration for all camps begins mid-January. Those who register before April 1 qualify for a discount.

The Music Settlement’s Center for Early Childhood is now accepting applications for enrollment at its four-star Step Up to Quality-rated preschool and day school programs. For more information on camps and school programs, visit the organization’s new website at www.themusicsettlement.org or call 216-421-5806.