SUBMITTED BY BANDEMONIUM MUSIC SOCIETY
The Bandemonium Music Society is busily preparing for their second annual Summer Band Camp, and this time around the slogan is “Band Camp Is For Everyone!”
All events take place at the Salt Spring Island Multi Space music room, with the main event being the Youth Band Camp. It runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Monday, Aug. 25 through Friday, Aug. 29. This program is designed for students aged 11 and up who have some band or instrument experience, and was a tremendous success last year.
“The energy from the kids was incredible,” said returning instructor Ben McConchie about last year’s camp. “They showed up ready to play, learn and create something special together. Over the course of just a few days, we saw huge growth — not just in musical ability but in confidence, collaboration and creativity. There were moments when the whole room lit up because something just clicked, and you could see it in their faces — the joy of making music together.”
Camp coordinator Kim Thompson said they were excited to expand this year’s programming.
“We’re adding workshops for older teens and adults,” said Thompson, “and a free instrument demo for younger kids.”
Reading Music for Absolute Beginners is aimed at teens and adults and is suitable for the total novice as well as those who play by ear but would like to add reading musical notation to their skill set. Improv Theory and Jam is for intermediate to advanced players who’d like to work on their improvisation chops. Adult Beginner Band is just what it says, a chance for new or returning players to play and learn together in a friendly group setting.
McConchie will lead both the youth and adult band sessions, and said he’s committed to making Bandemonium a space not just for young players but for adults who might be ready to reconnect with music after years away.
“So many people still have their old trumpet or flute in a closet somewhere,” McConchie said, “and they just need a nudge — or an excuse — to get it out again.”
McConchie said playing music is like riding a bike — the muscle memory comes back, but more importantly, the joy does too.
“Whether someone hasn’t played since high school or just wants to try something new, we want them to know they’re welcome,” he said. “It’s about community, fun and giving yourself permission to play again.”
Those who can’t decide what instrument to take up can check out the free Instrument Demo Saturday, Aug. 23 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. They can also bring in any instruments gathering dust in a closet for a checkup and playability assessment.
The Kids’ Instrument Demo is the same day from 10 to 11 a.m. Kids aged eight to 11 are invited to drop in with their parents for an up-close and personal introduction to the instruments in the band. Hopefully it will inspire them to join their school band in the fall!
There may be further workshops and informal jams added to the schedule closer to the event.
Salt Spring Summer Band Camp is run by the Bandemonium Music Society and operates with the generous assistance of the Salt Spring Foundation.
For more details and to register, visit saltspring.band.