Our beloved Build a Band camp is making a grand comeback, and we’re beyond excited to introduce Music Makers, the ultimate starting point for young music lovers! Secure your spot today and get ready to make some noise!

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Music Makers

Ages: 5-9
Location: Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre
Duration: One week
Time: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Discover the world of music, instruments, and sound in this exciting week-long program filled with hands-on activities designed to spark creativity and fun! Perfect for kids new to music, this program invites young explorers to dive into the joy of sound and self-expression. Each day, we’ll introduce new instruments, craft unique creations, and, of course, make plenty of noise!

No previous music experience is necessary.

Music Makers is a one-week program running in July and August*
- Monday, July 21 – Friday, July 25 (sold out)
- Monday, July 28 – Friday, August 1
- Monday, August 11 – Friday, August 15 (sold out)
- Monday, August 18 – Friday, August 22 (sold out)
The regular cost of Music Makers camp is $290 (+ GST) per week.
Early drop-off (8:00 am to 8:45am) and late pick-up (4:00 pm to 4:45 pm) can be arranged at an additional charge of either $30 (+GST) per day, or $120 (+GST) for the full week.
Sibling discount: Register one child for camp and get a discount of 20% (+GST) off per additional sibling.
There are 20 spots available each week of this camp.

*There is potential for more weeks to be added based on demand.

Build a Band

Ages: 9-12
Location: Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre
Duration: One week
Time: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Ever wondered what it takes to be in a band and jam out? This program focuses on learning how to play musical instruments and performing as a group. We will guide you through the process of songwriting, performing, and marketing your band. From a recording studio tour to daily workshops on jamming, riffing, and creating music, this program wraps up with a live performance where campers will show off their newfound skills as a band!

Basic musicality/musical knowledge recommended.

Key Details

Build a Band is a one-week program running in July and August:
- Monday, July 21 – Friday, July 25
- Monday, July 28 – Friday, August 1
- Monday, August 11 – Friday, August 15
- Monday, August 18 – Friday, August 22
The regular cost of the camp is $425 (+ GST) per week.
Early drop-off (8:00 am to 8:45am) and late pick-up (4:00 pm to 4:45 pm) can be arranged at an additional charge of either $30 (+GST) per day, or $120 (+GST) for the full week.
Sibling discount: Register one child for camp and get a discount of 20% (+GST) per additional sibling.
There are 14 spots available each week.
No need to bring your own instrument, unless you prefer to do so.*

* NMC has a fleet of acoustic and electric guitars, basses, keyboards, drums, ukuleles and some miscellaneous instruments in between! If your instrument of choice is particularly niche, or is a wind instrument of any kind, we recommend that you bring it with you.

For more information about Build A Band or Music Makers, please email education@nmc.ca.

Photos by Brianna Ross.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will campers be doing in Build A Band?

Campers will enjoy a jam-packed week in which they will create bands, write songs, make merchandise and learn the ins-and-outs of live performance. Band practice and songwriting will be interspersed with arts and crafts, outdoor time, tours of National Music Centre's world class recording studios and demonstrations of our one of a kind living collection!

What will campers be doing in Music Makers?

Campers will dive into a dynamic week of creativity and discovery during Music Makers camp! They’ll explore the world of music through hands-on arts and crafts, try out a variety of instruments, and discover new ways to make sound. The week is rounded out with outdoor play, guided tours of the National Music Centre’s world-class recording studios, and exclusive demonstrations of our one-of-a-kind living collection. It’s the perfect camp for budding artists and curious music-makers alike!

How do I know if this camp is right for my child?

For Build A Band, we recommend that all campers to bring some experience with musical instruments, as the program is centered upon collaborative musical exercises. Our camp is designed to engage campers in creating their own bands, providing hands-on experiences for your child to build upon their musical skills within an ensemble.

For Music Makers, no prior musical experience! It’s perfect for curious and creative kids who want to explore the world of music. All that’s needed is a positive attitude and a willingness to explore!
To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all campers, we require that all campers treat their fellow campers, instructors and the spaces with respect. This includes adhering to instructions and guidelines provided by camp leaders and remaining with their designated group at all times. Instances of consistent disrespect will prompt a discussion with the camper's guardian and may result in early dismissal from camp.

What should my child bring to camp each week?

We ask that campers come to camp each week with healthy lunch, some snacks and a water bottle. Students are welcome to bring their own instruments, though it is not required!

Indoor activities will be supplemented with daily trips to the park; for this reason, we ask that students come appropriately dressed for the weather.

Our plans have changed. What is the cancellation policy?

We understand that plans can shift unexpectedly! If needed, we're delighted to accommodate your child in a different week of camps (subject to availability) at no additional cost. For cancellations made within 48 hours of booking, a 100% refund will be issued. Cancellations made at least 14 days before the scheduled camp will receive a 60% refund, whereas cancellations within 14 days of the camp start date will not be eligible for a refund.