One-Day Sessions

2023 One-Day Sessions

2024 season dates and sessions coming soon.

Check in is at 8:00am, followed by classes, breakouts, activities, and social time through the afternoon. Lunch and dinner at Kresge Lodge are included. The session ends at 5:00pm, followed by dinner together. Participants may choose to stay for the camp’s Stewart Shell performance of the evening.

Drum Set 101

June 21, 2023

Mark Lopez, Instructor

This clinic is for musicians that want to have some knowledge in basic drum-set playing. If your director wants to play pieces with a drum set and can’t because no one has that skill, this camp is for you! Independent coordination exercises, drum set notation, and basic groove essentials will be presented. Get started with a proper understanding of a basic drum set, how to play each drum and cymbal, high-hat, and bass drum. Recommended for percussionists and band members with rhythmic skills who play in the percussion section periodically. Participants must bring a set of drum sticks and drum pad, and drum sets are provided (or you may bring your own).

Hand Drumming

June 22, 2023

Mark Lopez, Instructor

This lifelong, mood boosting drumming is offered to teach the use of beautiful hand drums. Hand drumming relieves stress, promotes self-expression, is therapeutic, and allows you to be present in the moment as you enjoy learning how to speak ‘drumming’. Learn a hybrid of cultural music, with an emphasis on West African rhythms. Drums will be provided. If you have drums,
bring yours along: Bongos, Congas, Djembe, Bodhran, Tambourine, Frame drum, Cajon, Drum Box.

Double Reed Masterclass

June 29, 2023

Prof. Mary Beth Minnis and Dr. Linda Beth Binkley, Instructors

Recommended for intermediate to experienced double reed musicians, as well as band or orchestra directors wanting to know more about oboe and bassoon. Refine fundamentals, learn advanced techniques, and discover reed-making. Expand your range, improve intonation, hone skills, and take your technique to the next level. Individual assistance will be provided by distinguished Blue Lake Faculty. Bring etudes, ensemble music, and reed-making supplies if you have them!

Irish Tin Whistling -Introductory

July 27, 2023

Larry Halverson, Instructor

This clinic provides an opportunity for any adult musician to learn how to play the Irish tin whistle. Learn from a professional Irish tin whistle player from the band, “Uneven Ground.” If you’ve always wanted to play along at the Irish Festivals, this is your chance to learn for your own enjoyment. Participants must bring an Irish tin whistle in the key of D.

Irish Fiddling - Introductory

July 27, 2023

Keala Venema, Instructor

This workshop offers an opportunity for string players to learn how to play in the style of the Irish music culture. Learn from a professionally trained Irish fiddle teacher. Explore Jigs, slip-jigs, reels, hornpipes, and polkas. Learn bowing techniques and articulations uniquely used to achieve this special sound and style. Participants will receive written music, as well as learn tunes by rote.

Irish Tin Whistling & Fiddling - Next Level

July 28, 2023

Larry Halverson and Keala Venema, Instructors

Participants in the one-day clinics can sign up for a second day of learning to enjoy the next level of whistling and fiddling.