Now in its twenty-sixth year, Piano Camp is a unique and exciting musical experience for high school students. Led by Professor of Piano Ingrid Jacobson Clarfield, the faculty includes Donald Smith, Todd Simmons, Radek Materka, Shannon Hesse, Heather Atagan Thorarinson, Kristen Watkins Topham, Angela Meyers, Lauren Kooistra, Ryan Brechmacher and Rose McCathran. The faculty will present lecture/demonstrations, master classes and group discussions, which will allow participants the opportunity to explore, in a supportive environment, the many facets of playing the piano. Ideas on efficient practice techniques, stylistic interpretation, memorization and dealing with performance anxiety will be presented. By reviewing video¬tapes of their playing and coaching’s, pianists will be able to study technique, performance choreography, develop poise and strive for a polished performance.

July 18 - July 23, 2010
Tuition: $TBA

Enrollment is open to students entering the 9th grade through those entering their senior year. Due to the popularity of this program, the camps are not open to students who are graduating from high school except for those who will be coming to Westminster Choir College in fall. Each session will be limited to 24 students. Returning students are recommended to enroll in Session B.

Program Highlights

• Students will be coached in solo, duet and two-piano pieces in addition to prepared solos from their current repertoire 
• Students receive supervised practice sessions during the week 
• Ms. Clarfield will provide guidance in the preparation of college auditions, recitals, competitions and career opportunities 
• Students attend classes in style and interpretation, technique, music history, theory, jazz and accompanying 
• Students will demonstrate what they have learned by performing solo and ensemble pieces in a recital on Friday afternoon

Daily Schedule

• Morning: Group classes in technique, memory tips, and performance anxiety. Master classes in solo repertoire
• Afternoon: Ensemble rehearsals and coaching, group classes in music history, performance choreography, preparing for auditions and master classes on solo repertoire
• Evening: Fun group activities that teach theory, jazz, improvisation, composition and accompanying; supervised practice sessions on solo and ensemble repertoire