Q: What large group ensembles are available?

A: There are three primary full instrumental groups:

• Not Quite Ready Players (beginner/novice players)
• Concert Band (Novice / Intermediate players)
• Symphonic Band (Intermediate / More Advanced players)

We also have two levels of jazz groups, a novice and a more advanced group.

And, we have several jam groups which explore music such as Dixieland, Klezmer, World Percussion, and Drum Circle.

Q: I see that there are also small group ensembles.  How will that work?  Will there be coaching?

A: We will have scheduled ensembles such as clarinet choir, flute choir, horn ensemble, low brass ensemble, Klezmer band, etc., which will meet daily under the guidance of our specialists.  We also offer a Chamber Music Course track which you can register for and will be assigned to a group and given music prior to arriving at camp. You may also create your own small group, duos, trios, quintets, etc., either bringing your own music or borrowing music from the library.  Some people just like to practice with a practice buddy.  There will be a Camper’s Casual Concert at the end of the week for anyone wishing to perform solo or in a small ensemble. Spouse/Friends who play string instruments or recorder are encouraged to attend and create a string or recorder ensemble! 

Q: Tell me more about the seminars.

A: Each day, we offer several seminars presenting all different kinds of information about music. These topics will be determined by camper interest and staff expertise. Possible seminar topics include, Music Theory, Jazz Improvisation, Science of Sound, or other such interesting topics. Final registration for seminars & ensembles will happen in the summer.

Q: How do I get the seminars & ensemble that I want? Is there a limit on participation?

A: For the most part, there is no limit to how many people can be in an ensemble or seminar because we want everyone to be able learn what interests them.  That said, some spaces, may physically limit the number of participants, but so far it hasn’t happened.

In the mid to late summer, registration forms will be sent out so you can sign up for what interests you.  This will happen after the music has been sent so that you can look at the level of the music for each band and make an educated determination of where you want to be rather than guessing. 

Q: What if I need some help?

A: We have a wonderful, helpful (patient & understanding) faculty and any one of us will be happy to figure out a time to help you with what you need.  We do not offer lessons, but we will help you with specific issues.

Q: I want to challenge myself and try the symphonic band, but I’m afraid that I will get there and not be able to keep up.

A: You will receive the music for both bands sometime in the summer, so you will be able look at the music and decide which group is probably best for you.  That said, our groups are flexible so if the symphonic band turns out to be too much of a challenge, you can move to the concert band.  If the concert band is not challenging enough, you may move to the symphonic band.  We will try to help you get it right the first time so you don’t miss a rehearsal, but we will make it work for you. This is your week!

Q: What do you mean by Novice? 

A: Our novice players are those who haven’t had a lot of experience on their instruments.  Perhaps they’ve only played for a year or so, or perhaps they are coming back to their instruments after years (decades!) of not playing and are still a bit wobbly.  If you aren’t sure about your classification, email me (Patrick, ) and we will figure it out together.

Q: What if I’m just not good enough?

A: We have an informal motto in the New Horizons organizations, “Your Best is Good Enough!”  That will hold true for our camp week, too!  This week is about having fun making music with new friends, not about competing to see who can play fastest or most accurately.  If a spot in the music is too hard, leave it out!  We will also have teachers available to help you where you are stuck and we can modify the music to make it work for you (it’s amazing what leaving out a few notes can do!)  In any case, you should feel comfortable in your group, and if you don’t talk to the Program/Music Director - Patrick, or your instrument specialist.

Q: Wait a minute.  I’m a pretty good player; will I be challenged?

A: Our goal is to provide a challenge for everyone! The Symphonic Band music will include some challenging pieces and some easier pieces where we can really dig into musicality (how often do you really listen to see how the piccolo part fits with the tuba part??).  If you still aren’t sure how you would fit, email me (Patrick, )

Q: How will I know what my schedule is?

A: Everyone will be in one of the two bands (Concert Band and Symphonic Band) and the sectionals for your instrument and group.  After that, what you do with your day is totally up to you!  You will have music seminars as an option, small ensembles, help session time, recreation time (waterfront, tennis, softball, soccer, etc.), time for the 2^nd cup of coffee or to sit and read a book, time to go explore other areas of Central Maine.  Your choice! You can come and play every minute of every day, immersing yourself in your instrument or musical knowledge, or you can be more relaxed. Each day can be different, it is all your choice!

Q: What is the Spouse/Friend Track?

A: As adults, we often want to bring our spouse, partner or adult friend (no children) with us when we go off on an adventure!  Band camp is no different.  You may register your spouse/friend when you register yourself, or add him/her later.  There are many choices for the person accompanying you; some of people will just want to come and hang out and take part in the evening activities and recreation.  That is Spouse/Friend Track B.  Others want to take part more and perhaps go to the music seminars or even play in some of the small group ensembles (we hope to have some string players for small string ensembles!).  This is Spouse/Friend Track A.  The person accompanying you to camp will stay in your room or cabin with you at no further charge and pay only for food and the track fee.

Q: What is available for recreation?

A:  NEAMC’s complex has three tennis courts, a soccer field, two softball diamonds, volleyball and badminton courts, archery range, and basketball court and a waterfront with excellent swimming.  Canoes & kayaks are available or you may bring your own.

Q: What’s this I hear about a campfire, marshmallows and a sing-a-long??

A: Yup!  A true camp experience!

Q: How can I get more information about housing, my dietary needs or physical needs?

A: Email

Q: How can I get more information about the daily program? 

A: Email me, Patrick at 

Q: What should I bring?

A:  Download the packing list: HERE!   Be sure to double check the list just before you leave in case anything has been changed!