Violin Bootcamp is an intensive and immersive program for intermediate to advanced violin students focusing on building a healthy technical foundation and improving personal violin technique, all in a supportive community of fellow violinists.
Scheduled in mid-August, Violin Bootcamp is perfectly timed for violin students who want their playing in peak condition to start the upcoming school year. Students can sign up for either or both weeks offered, intensifying their preparation for school orchestra auditions and beginning-of-the-year seating tests – or getting back into shape after summer vacation! For students preparing for the Northern Virginia Senior Regional Orchestra auditions, this camp is approximately one month before auditions. Students can focus their lesson and practice time for these excerpts and will have the opportunity to do mock auditions for their teachers, classmates, and guest college professors.
Week 1: August 14-18, 2017
Week 2: August 21-25, 2017
Students can sign up for either or both weeks!
This year, Dr. Cora Cooper from Kansas State University will teach a masterclass during Week 1. The Bootcamp team is currently in talks with other college professors for masterclasses, and more information will be available in late May.
One of the most empowering aspects of Violin Bootcamp is the community of violinists that develops throughout the week. The nurturing atmosphere and environment of camaraderie are inspirational and motivational for students of all ages. Bootcamp promotes the philosophy that studying music is an individual journey. The faculty help the students develop a collaborative mindset that leads to shared learning without “cut-throat” competition. Students work AND play together, from group technique classes to outside games during their lunch break!
Now in its 3rd year, Violin Bootcamp is directed and taught by its original creators, violinists and teaching artists Claire Allen, Rachel McAleer, Matt Richardson, and Erynn Spencer.
Each week of Violin Bootcamp is capped at 20 students, so it is highly recommended to register early. After registering, a short audition video submission is required to ensure that the program is the right fit for the student. (Starting in mid-April, audition video submissions will be reviewed regularly by the faculty, and responded to in a timely manner.)