Registration for July 21-26th summer session is open. Let’s rock!
Soundwall Music Camps are open to students ages 12–17 who have a minimum of one year playing/study experience. The camps are designed for young musicians who want to have the time-of-their-life performing music everyday with students their own age.
Some of the music fundamentals we teach are: instrument technique; rock music history; basic music theory; vocal performance; band dynamics; song writing; recording theory and techniques, understanding odd time signatures; developing bass and drum teamwork as well as how to prepare for
a performance.
Performing in a band is one of the most popular aspects of the Soundwall experience. On the first day of camp the students are grouped into bands according to their age, playing ability and the style of music they prefer to perform. Then, every day the students rehearse with their band under the guidance of our professional staff. As the students rehearse, they learn performance techniques such as: dynamics; understanding song form; how to work together in a group; communication skills and how to deliver the song in a performance.
The camp ends with a final concert for family and friends held in a state-of-the-art concert hall with professional lighting and sound.
Soundwall Music Camps comprise a unique music education program for young rock musicians and offer an environment not found in private lessons or school music programs.
We offer young musicians who play guitar, bass, drums, keyboards and/or sing, the chance to work with other young players under the guidance of seasoned instructors who are also working musicians.
Soundwall students are encouraged to study, develop, and hone their craft. They learn that with practice, dedication and a great attitude, they can become the best musician they can possibly be!
FACILITIES
The Music Center at University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) is considered to be among the best of any university music facility in the country. At Soundwall, campers attend classes and rehearse in this state of the art facility. At other camps students rehearse in dorms.
THE RECITAL HALL
Our final concerts feature professional sound and lighting systems. These concerts are held in the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) Music Center's 400 seat Recital Hall, a fabulous performance space. Similar camps hold their concerts in multipurpose rooms.
EQUIPMENT
Soundwall campers don't need to bring or rent equipment. Contributions to our non-profit allow us to provide Mackie sound systems, DW drums, Zildjian cymbals, Shure microphones, and SWR and Line 6 amps. Campers bring only their basses, guitars and drum sticks. Other camps require students to bring or rent all equipment.
INSTRUCTORS
We've had the same instructional staff for the past ten years. Teachers are working professionals–two are published authors, several have music degrees–one graduate degree. The majority of the staff are over 30. Many camps hire a much younger, less experienced staff.