Instrumentalists can improve talent at Madison Music Camp

MADISON – Band members can maintain – even improve – their playing skills and learn about various components of marching band during Madison Music Camp.

Students who will enter sixth through ninth grades in the 2021-2022 school year are eligible to attend the camp. Camp dates will be June 7-11.

Keith Anderson, James Clemens Band Director, invites middle-school directors to encourage their students for a week of musicmaking. Students who are brand new to their instrument can enroll in the beginning camp. Students with a year or more experience can register for the advanced camp.

To access registration forms, visit jcjetsband.com. If the student has played in band at least one year, click “Advanced Camp Registration”, or if the student has not played a band instrument, click “Beginning Camp Registration.”

Registration deadline is May 24 to confirm that all campers will receive a T-shirt and to order an adequate amount of food for lunches.

Students in the advanced camp can choose electives for morning and afternoon sessions. Morning electives include jazz band, marching band basics, conducting, beginning piano and color guard basics. Those topics also are available in the afternoon, along with classes for secondary instruments (the camper must bring the instrument to practice), bucket drumming and music theory.

For bucket drumming, campers will use a plastic bucket and drumsticks for a fun way to practice percussion. Striking the bucket in different locations produces unique sounds.

Camp fee is $200. Campers can pay online at https://madisoncityal.csiepay.com (in the “JCHS extracurricular” and “Madison Music Camp” headings). In addition, band members can deliver a check or cash in an envelope labeled “JCHS Band” to the school’s front desk. Or, mail a check to James Clemens High School, c/o Keith Anderson, 11306 County Line Road, Madison AL 35756. (Checks payable to “James Clemens High School.”)

Conductors for the camp’s advanced bands will be John Cooper, who retired as Director of Bands at Austin High School, and Mandy Irvin, Band Director at Decatur Middle School. Area professionals will conduct sectionals throughout the day.

James Clemens Band program seeks to develop musicianship and appreciation among its members and the community. With integrity and unity, all facets of the James Clemens Band Program will be the example in all local, state, and national opportunities, on and off the performance stage.

For more information, email kanderson@madisoncity.k12.al.us or visit jcjetsband.com.