“There are not many programs like this in the region,” said Ian Hominick associate professor of music and camp coordinator. “It’s a fun, safe environment, and there are diverse activities to keep students interested and challenged.”
The camp will run June 13-19 at the UM Music Building. Students entering the grades 7-12 who play at an intermediate level or higher are eligible to attend. For resident campers, the cost is $450; for commuting campers, the cost is $375.
During the week, campers will take individual lessons as well as a daily master class with other students. The camp also includes classes on subjects including piano literature, theory, computer technology, technique, sight reading and ensemble.
“I also have the students figure out what type of student they are as far as how they learn music,” Hominick said.
Two guest artists will be present at the camp to give concerts and teach workshops.
Paul Kenyan is an acclaimed performer and chair of the music department at Point Loma Nazarene University. He has performed at the Colby Piano Institute in Waterville, Maine, where he coached with the internationally renowned pianist, Anthony di Bonaventura. He also performs as pianist for Trio Point Loma, a resident faculty chamber ensemble. Kenyan will give a concert and will also teach a workshop on gospel music and the Alexander technique.
Judith Fairchild has taught piano independently in Memphis for 21 years. Her students have performed in Carnegie Hall and have been soloists for the Kansas City, Paducah, Ky., and Richardson, Texas, symphonies. Her students have also been winners in many regional competitions as well as the Music Teachers National Association Composition Competition.
Fairchild will teach two workshops. The first will help students determine if they are a Type A pianist or Type B pianist. The second will be on the life and works of composers Clara and Robert Schumann.
At the end of the week, campers can volunteer to perform in a student recital. Parents and teachers are welcome to attend.
Hominick encourages students to sign up for the camp.
“We have a lot of fun,” he said. “It’s a stiff curriculum and we keep them really busy, but we also have time to have some fun.”
For more information about the Piano Discoveries Summer Camp, or for registration information or assistance related to a disability, visit http://outreach.olemiss.edu/