Camp Details | Belle Melodie Music

2026 Summer Camp Daily Curriculum

Pop Music & Band Week:

Week 5 (June 29 – July 3)

Age: 7-16, Students under 7 may be considered only with instructor approval.

For students with prior experience in guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, vocals, backing vocals, or Belle Melodie Band Class

Goal: This intensive camp is designed for young musicians who already have some playing or singing experience and are ready to take the next step into a real band setting. Campers will rehearse as a pop/rock band, learn how to listen to each other, build stage confidence, refine their parts, and prepare for a Friday showcase, video recording, and potential future performances.

Monday: Band Setup & Audition Placement
- Welcome & Band Orientation
  Campers meet their bandmates, review the week’s goals, and learn how a real band rehearsal works.
- Skill Check & Role Placement
  Instructors listen to each student’s current level and assign band roles based on ability, experience, confidence, and group balance.
- Song Selection & Arrangement
  The group begins working on selected pop/rock songs. Instructors introduce the structure of the music, including intro, verse, chorus, bridge, solo sections, and ending.
- First Full-Band Rehearsal
  Campers begin rehearsing together, focusing on tempo, entrances, endings, and listening across the band.
- Musicianship Focus
  How to follow the drummer, how to stay with the groove, and how to avoid overpowering other players.
Tuesday: Rhythm, Groove & Band Communication
- Rhythm Section Training
  Drums, bass, guitar, and keyboard work on groove, timing, chord changes, and rhythmic coordination.
- Vocal & Backing Vocal Coaching
  Singers work on pitch, timing, microphone technique, diction, expression, and blending with the band.
- Sectional Rehearsals
  Students break into smaller groups by role: rhythm section, vocals, guitars, keyboards, and percussion.
- Band Communication Skills
  Campers learn how musicians communicate during rehearsal and performance through counting in, eye contact, cues, dynamics, and endings.
- Full-Band Run-Through
  The group puts the parts together and begins shaping the song into a performance-ready version.
Wednesday: Arrangement, Style & Stage Sound
- Polishing Individual Parts
  Students refine their assigned parts, including chord voicings, fills, grooves, vocal lines, harmonies, and transitions.
- Pop/Rock Style Coaching
  Instructors demonstrate how experienced musicians create energy, groove, tone, and style on stage.
- Sound Balance & Stage Setup
  Campers learn how to balance volume between vocals, drums, guitars, bass, and keys.
- Second Song or Medley Development
  Depending on the group level, campers may begin a second song, short medley, or extended arrangement.
- Full Rehearsal with Feedback
  The band rehearses under instructor guidance, receiving feedback on timing, energy, musical expression, and teamwork.
Thursday: Performance Training & Video Preparation
- Stage Presence Workshop
  Campers practice how to walk on stage, introduce the band, use microphones, communicate with the audience, and bow professionally.
- Performance Run-Throughs
  The band rehearses the full set as if performing for an audience.
- Recording Preparation
  Students learn basic performance discipline for video recording: staying focused, recovering from mistakes, watching cues, and keeping strong stage energy.
- Final Coaching from Experienced Musicians
  Senior instructors and experienced performers demonstrate rehearsal techniques, performance attitude, and real-world band skills.
- Dress Rehearsal
  Full performance rehearsal with instruments, microphones, stage positions, and transitions.
Friday: Showcase, Recording & Next Stage
- Final Band Rehearsal
  The group completes a final polish of the performance set.
- Video Recording Session
  Campers record their band performance for family sharing, portfolio use, and future performance consideration.
- Mini Showcase Preparation
  Students prepare introductions, stage positions, and final performance details.
- Friday Stage Showcase
  Campers perform for families and guests in a short live showcase.
- Next Performance Opportunity
  Campers will be invited to perform again at the August Recital or other local community venues, depending on readiness, commitment, and program needs.

Musical & Vocal Week:

Week 2 (June 8 – 12), Week 6 (July 6 – 10), Week 10 (Aug 3 – 7)

Age: 4-12, Students under age 6 may require guardian accompaniment, depending on their independence and self-care ability.

For students who love singing, acting, dancing, storytelling, and performing on stage. This camp is ideal for children who enjoy musical theatre, Disney-style songs, Broadway-style performance, character acting, movement, and group singing. No prior stage experience is required. Students with prior musical theatre experience may be assigned more advanced roles, songs, choreography, or performance tasks based on their level.

Goal: A journey through the best music of the last 50 years! We focus heavily on vocal training—teaching campers how to sing with power, pitch, and emotion. We will add simple "moves design" (staging) to make the songs come alive, but the star of the show is the voice. Repertoire: A fun mix of "Mom & Dad’s Favorites" (70s/80s), the Disney Renaissance (90s/00s), and the Modern Hits (2010s–Today).

Monday: Vocal Boot Camp & The Classics (70s & 80s)
- Welcome & Warm-Ups: Breathing exercises (filling the balloon!) and sirens to find our "head voice" and "chest voice."
- Time Travel: We travel back to the 70s & 80s to learn songs our parents loved (e.g., The Aristocats, The Little Mermaid, Annie).
- Pitch Perfect: Fun games to help us match pitch and sing in tune.
- Chorus Time: Learning the melody of a classic upbeat song together.
Tuesday: The Golden Era (90s & 00s)
- The "Disney Renaissance": Exploring the huge hits of the 90s and 00s (e.g., The Lion King, Aladdin, Mulan, High School Musical).
- Storytelling: How to use your voice to sound happy, sad, or brave without changing the notes.
- Diction & Clarity: Tongue twisters to make sure the audience understands every word we sing.
- Group Split: We split into small groups to try different parts of a "Golden Era" song.
Wednesday: Modern Hits & Moves Design (2010s – Now)
- Current Favorites: Singing the songs campers know by heart (e.g., Frozen, Moana, Encanto, Sing).
- Moves Design: Instead of difficult dance routines, we learn "Staging"—how to stand, use hand gestures, and move with the music to look professional.
- Microphone Technique: How to hold the mic properly and project your voice.
- The Mash-Up: We start connecting our songs from different decades into one big show.
Thursday: Polishing the Show
- Vocal Health: Learning how to take care of our voices (water, rest) so we sound great on Friday.
- Stage Presence: Practicing our bows, smiles, and eye contact with the audience.
- Prop Workshop: Using simple props (hats, scarves, or wands) to enhance the "Moves Design."
- Full Run-Through: Singing our songs from the 70s, 90s, and Today in order.
Friday: The Time Travel Concert
- Final Warm-Up: Gentle vocal stretches to get ready.
- Dress Rehearsal: A full practice with microphones and props.
- Circle of Praise: Sharing what we love about each other's singing.
- 2:30 PM Recital: A musical journey through the decades! Parents will love hearing their old favorites alongside the new hits.

Songwriting & Music Creation Week:

Week 3 (June 15 – 19)

Age: 7-16, Students under 7 may be considered only with instructor approval.

For students interested in singing, songwriting, creative writing, or original music creation. Instruction will be adjusted by age and level.

Goal:

This camp is designed for students who love singing, songwriting, storytelling, and creative self-expression. Throughout the week, campers will explore different styles of original songs, learn how singers and songwriters shape their ideas, and create their own original lyrics, melodies, and performance pieces.

Monday: Finding Your Song Idea
- Welcome & Creative Warm-Up
  Campers meet their songwriting friends through music games, storytelling prompts, and fun creative exercises.
- Songwriter Inspiration
  Camp Instructor introduces campers to different eras and styles of original music, helping them hear how artists turn personal stories, emotions, imagination, and everyday life into songs.
- What Makes a Song?
  Campers learn the basic parts of a song: verse, chorus, bridge, intro, and ending.
- Idea Journal
  Each camper begins collecting ideas for their own song, such as a memory, dream, character, place, feeling, or story.
- Finalize the Idea
  Camp Instructor how songwriters begin a new song and helps each camper choose a strong personal song idea.
Tuesday: Lyrics, Stories & Song Structure
- Lyric Lab
  Campers begin turning their ideas into lyrics, exploring rhyme, repetition, imagery, and simple poetic language.
- Artist Style Exploration
  The Assistant Camp Instructor introduces examples of different singer-songwriter styles, such as pop, musical theatre, folk, soft rock, or Disney-style storytelling.
- Lyric Booklet Design
  Campers start creating their own handmade lyric booklet, decorating the pages with drawings, colors, and personal symbols that match their song.
- Practice Time
  Campers begin speaking, singing, or lightly accompanying their lyrics with piano, guitar, ukulele, or simple chords when appropriate.
- Focused Songwriting Session
  The Camp Instructor teaches how to build a verse and chorus, then works individually with campers to refine their lyrics and song structure.
Wednesday: Melody, Chords & Personal Style
- Melody Making
  Campers explore how melodies can move up, down, repeat, or build emotion. They practice humming, singing, or playing short musical ideas.
- Chord & Accompaniment Practice
  Students with piano, guitar, or ukulele experience may begin adding simple chords or accompaniment patterns to support their songs.
- CD Cover Concept
  Campers design the front cover of their personal “CD album,” choosing a title, image, color style, and mood that represents their original song.
- Song Practice Groups
  Campers share early versions of their songs in small groups and receive encouraging feedback.
- Focused Songwriting Session
  The Camp Instructor guides each camper in shaping melody, matching words with music, and developing a singable, memorable chorus.
Thursday: Performance Preparation & Album Artwork
- Back Cover & Song Credits
  Campers design the back cover of their CD case, including song title, songwriter name, lyrics excerpt, artwork, and “album credits.”
- Vocal and Instrument Practice
  Campers rehearse singing, speaking, or playing their original songs with instructor support.
- Stage Confidence Workshop
  Students practice introducing their song, using a microphone, standing confidently, and performing with expression.
- Final Lyric Booklet Assembly
  Campers complete their lyric booklet and CD cover package.
- Focused Songwriting Session
  The Camp Instructor gives final one-on-one coaching to help each camper polish lyrics, melody, phrasing, and performance delivery.
Friday: Original Song Showcase
- Final Rehearsal
  Campers rehearse their original songs and prepare for the mini stage presentation.
- Project Completion
  Students finish their CD cover, back cover, lyric booklet, and personal songwriting package.
- Sharing Circle
  Campers share what inspired their song and what they learned during the week.
- Mini Stage Showcase
  Campers perform or present their original songs for families and guests.
- Video Recording & Next Stage
  Performances will be recorded. Selected students may be invited to perform their original songs again at the August Recital.

Music Production Week:

Week 7 (July 13 – 17)

Age: 10–16+
For students who are comfortable using a computer or tablet and can follow multi-step technology instructions.

Please note that students are required to bring their own laptop or tablet for music production activities. Families are responsible for downloading and, if needed, purchasing the required music production software or app before camp begins. Recommended software may include Cubase or a similar DAW/music production app, depending on the student’s device and experience level.

Suggested Software Options:

Free option: BandLab
Free Apple option: GarageBand
Recommanded paid option: Cubase Elements appoximately $66.99

Younger students may be considered only with instructor approval and must demonstrate sufficient independence with technology.

Goal: This camp is designed for students who are curious about how songs are built, recorded, edited, and produced. Campers will explore the basics of modern music production through rhythm creation, melody ideas, sound effects, microphone recording, loops, song structure, and simple digital music tools.

Throughout the week, students will learn how producers think: how to choose sounds, build beats, layer tracks, record vocals or instruments, organize song sections, and shape a short musical project from idea to finished demo.

Monday: What Does a Music Producer Do?
- Welcome & Creative Orientation
  Campers meet their production team and learn what music producers do in pop, film, musical theatre, electronic music, and recording sessions.
- Song Structure Basics
  Students listen to examples and identify intro, verse, chorus, bridge, breakdown, and ending.
- Sound Exploration
  Campers explore different instrument sounds, keyboard sounds, drum sounds, effects, and textures.
- Beat & Mood Challenge
  Students choose a mood—happy, mysterious, dramatic, energetic, dreamy—and begin creating sound ideas that match it.
- Project Planning
  Each camper or group begins planning a short production project, including style, title, mood, and possible instruments or vocals.
Tuesday: Beats, Loops & Rhythm Building
- Rhythm Lab
  Campers learn how beats are built using kick, snare, hi-hat, claps, percussion, and basic groove patterns.
- Loop Building
  Students create simple repeating patterns and learn how loops can become the foundation of a song.
- Tempo & Groove
  Campers explore how changing tempo affects the feeling of music.
- Layering Sounds
  Students begin layering drums, bass sounds, chords, and simple melodic ideas.
- Producer Listening Session
  Campers listen back to their projects and learn how to make choices: what to keep, what to remove, and what needs to be stronger.
Wednesday: Melody, Chords & Recording Ideas
- Melody Creation
  Students create short melodic ideas using voice, keyboard, or digital instruments.
- Chord & Bass Foundations
  Campers learn how simple chords and bass lines support a production.
- Microphone Basics
  Students learn basic microphone technique, including distance, volume, clarity, and how to record without unwanted noise.
- Vocal or Instrument Recording
  Campers record short vocal lines, spoken words, instruments, or sound effects to add to their projects.
- Production Checkpoint
  The instructor helps each student or group organize their track into clear sections.
Thursday: Editing, Effects & Final Production
- Basic Editing
  Campers learn how producers clean up recordings, arrange sections, repeat ideas, and create transitions.
- Sound Effects & Texture
  Students experiment with simple effects such as reverb, echo, layering, and background sounds.
- Arrangement Workshop
  Campers refine the form of their project: intro, main section, contrast section, and ending.
- Mixing Basics
  Students learn basic balance: which sound should be louder, which should be softer, and how to avoid a crowded track.
- Final Production Session
  Campers complete the main structure of their production project and prepare it for Friday’s showcase.
Friday: Listening Showcase & Project Release
- Final Polish
  Students complete final edits, balance, and presentation details.
- Project Title & Cover Concept
  Campers create a title and simple visual identity for their music project, such as cover art, project notes, or a short description.
- Listening Rehearsal
  Each student or group practices introducing their project: what inspired it, what sounds they used, and what they produced.
- Music Production Showcase
  Campers present their finished audio projects to families and guests in a listening showcase.
- Video/Audio Sharing & Next Stage
  Projects may be recorded or saved for family sharing. Selected students may be invited to present or perform their work again at the August Recital or future Belle Melodie events.

Percussion Week:

Week 8 (July 20 – 24)

Age: 4–12

For students who love rhythm, movement, drums, energetic music, and hands-on learning. It is a great fit for children who enjoy tapping, clapping, moving to the beat, exploring different instruments, and performing as part of a group.

No prior percussion experience is required. Students with previous percussion, drum set, piano, or rhythm training may be given more advanced parts and learning goals based on their level.

Goal: If you can tap it, you can play it! This week explores the huge world of percussion. Campers will move beyond just "hitting things" to learning grip, technique, and melody across four main stations: Snare Drum, Drum Set, Xylophone, and World Percussion. The Project: We will build our own custom "Shakers" to use in our big ensemble piece and take them home at the end of the week!

Monday: Stick Control & Snare Science
- Grip 101: Learning how to hold sticks properly (Matched Grip) to play fast and safe.
- The Snare Drum: Learning "Buzz Rolls," dynamics (Loud vs. Soft), and stroke technique.
- Rhythm Writer: We learn to read basic percussion music and compose our own short snare drum solo.
- Drum Set Intro: First sit-down at the full kit to learn the pedals and drums.
- Song Selection: Students choose their "Solo Song" for the week from a list of Rock & Pop favorites.
Tuesday: World Rhythms & Shaker Shop
- Hand Drumming: Exploring different tones on Djembes and Cajóns.
- Instrument Building: We build our own Custom Shakers using beads and recycled materials to learn about sound textures.
- Xylophone Intro: It’s not just rhythm—it’s melody! Learning note names and major scales on the mallet instruments.
- Ensemble Practice: First rehearsal of our main Group Latin/World Percussion piece (featuring our homemade shakers!).
Wednesday: Timing & Technique
- Metronome Games: Fun challenges to improve our "Internal Clock" and subdivisions.
- Xylophone Level 2: Moving from scales to playing a short group song.
- Video Session: Watching clips of famous drummers to see how the pros move.
- Solo Shed: Focused practice time on our Drum Set solos (learning the grooves to the songs we picked on Monday).
Thursday: Composition & The Drum Circle
- Group Composition: We work together to write a short xylophone melody as a team.
- Improv Circle: We sit in a circle and take turns improvising (making up rhythms on the spot) while the group keeps the beat.
- Ensemble Polish: Cleaning up our Group Snare Drum Piece (playing exactly together as a team).
- Full Run-Through: Playing our solos and group songs in order.
Friday: The Big Beat Concert
- Warm-Up: Final stick control exercises and stretching.
- Stage Prep: Setting up the drums, stands, and xylophones for the show.
- Dress Rehearsal: A full performance run-through.
- 2:30 PM Recital: The Percussion Showcase!
  - Featuring: The main Ensemble piece with homemade shakers, the Group Snare piece, and individual Drum Set solos.

2026 SPRING CAMP PLAN

Our Spring Camp is a condensed and immersive preview of our Summer Camp experience, designed as a Full Spectrum Music Program.

Over five days, campers explore a different musical discipline each day—including Strings, Woodwinds, Percussion, Voice, and Keyboard—through focused 2-hour introductory sessions led by Belle Melodie’s most experienced faculty. These sessions provide students with high-quality exposure to a wide range of instruments and vocal studies in a structured, age-appropriate format.

Outside of these specialty sessions, campers are guided by our enthusiastic, caring, and energetic camp instructors through engaging music activities, group projects, creative games, and supervised practice, ensuring a balanced experience that is both educational and fun.

This program is ideal for students with little to no prior experience and serves as an excellent introduction to future music study at Belle Melodie.

Single day visit ($79/day) available now. Email for details!