All electives will take place on Saturday during recreation time (2:10-3:10pm). Sign up when you register (choose top 3 options)!
Basic of Improvisation with Dr. Annie Savage
Have you always wanted to play in a band? This is your chance to learn and show off the skills that it takes to do just this! We will start by learning a couple catchy tunes by ear and then give you some tips for improvising riffs, harmonies, and variations. All with a band on hand to help you do this. Violins and violas? You get to work with Dr. Savage—a fiddle player who is also the head of string education at JMU! Bass and cello players? Come on in! We have a great bass player on hand to format a bass line! Come play with our band and learn to BE in a band at the same time!
When: Saturday, 2:10-3:10 during recreation time
Where: Music Building Room 108
What to bring: Students should bring their primary stringed instrument. Also welcome: guitars and vocalists!
Come hear Dr. Savage and The Savage Hearts at an open Jam session on Friday, May 29 from 8:30-9:30pm in the Music Building Room 108. Open to any interested campers!
The Savage Hearts is a dynamic female-fronted band led by fiddler Annie Savage and known for their high-energy shows, tight three-part harmonies, and blend of traditional bluegrass with rock and education outreach, featuring members Kevin Slick, Trish Imbrogno, and Annie Savage. They've released music on platforms like Apple Music and Spotify with albums like Playing It Forward.
Max students: 100
Brazilian Drumming with Dr. Christopher Fashun
Discover the drumming traditions of Northeastern Brazil. Experience the traditional drumming styles of Samba and Reggae, and learn how to play complex rhythms with others! This session will include live demonstrations and opportunities for participants to play Brazilian instruments. No experience required!
When: Saturday, 2:10-3:10 during recreation time
Where: Forbes Patio (outside)
Max students: 50
Movement and Stretching with Dr. Omelchenko
This session helps musicians loosen up, stretch, and move their bodies to feel more relaxed, energized, and focused. Campers will learn simple movements, breathing exercises, and stretches to improve comfort, prevent tension, and get ready to play their instruments with ease. Be ready to move and even learn a new step or two! No experience needed!
When: Saturday, 2:10-3:10 during recreation time
Where: Forbes lobby
Conducting Basics with Noelle Singleton & Dalton Guin
In this session, campers will learn the fundamentals of conducting, including basic beat patterns and conducting gestures. Through fun, hands-on activities, they'll practice communicating musical ideas with confidence. No experience required!
When: Saturday, 2:10-3:10 during recreation time
Where: Anthony-Seeger Auditorium
