Summer Jazz Camp

Treat yourself to a summer jazz camp/vacation on the beautiful shores of Lake Rideau in Ontario, Canada. A jazz retreat for adults-five nights and four full days of jazz study and jamming in an absolutely gorgeous setting. We'll hunker down with jazz standards, blues, and bebop. We'll play music for hours on end and cover a wide range of topics-practicing methods, articulation and phrasing, jazz theory, modern chord voicings, improvisation techniques and ensemble playing. Classical musicians interested in the art of jazz and blues and improvisation are welcome!

Come together with a small, select group of folks (6 to 10 people max) with a common passion for jazz and blues. Set yourself down on the beautiful shores of Lake Rideau where the gifts of nature surround you. You can look forward to exploring the complexities of jazz with an intimate group of like-minded adults. Four days of comprehensive study, discussion, and music-making led by Minneapolis educator, composer, and jazz guitarist, Paul Renz. You’ll have plenty of free time to enjoy the setting whether it's frolicking in the lake, canoeing, hiking, or just quietly communing with nature. You’ll share one of several clean, charming, and rustic cabins with 4 to 6 people. All the cabins are nestled close to the lake, within 30 meters of the docks and pristine waters of the Upper Rideau.

Who Should Apply?

Any instrumentalist, vocalist, teacher or performer is encouraged to apply. Proficiency on your instrument is desirable but not essential. The main focus of this retreat is gaining a deeper understanding of jazz theory and harmony, and its application to improvisation, performance, arranging and composition. Our goal is to illustrate how knowledge of jazz theory enhances every aspect of musicianship. Participation in playing music is optional, but people are encouraged to bring their instruments. Keyboard, drums, and amplifiers for guitar and bass will be provided.

Food, Lodging, and Shuttle

Lodging: attractive rustic cabins, sleeping 4 to 6 people. All accommodations are shared.
Meals: buffet breakfast with plenty of coffee!, lunch and dinner. Fresh organic foods are purchased from local farmers whenever possible.
The region produces wonderful meats, fruits and vegetables. Ontario blueberries are scrumptious!
Shuttle Service: (@ 2 hours) from the Ottawa Airport (YOW) to the cabins on day of arrival, and return shuttle on day of departure.

A Typical Day's Schedule
8AM - 9AM Buffet Breakfast
9AM - 10:30AM Theory Lecture
10:30AM - 11AM Small Break
11AM - 12:30PM Improv Techniques
12:30PM - 4PM Lunch and Recreation Break (free time)
4PM - 6PM Classes Resume
6PM - 8PM Dinner break
Post 8PM - Informal gatherings, recreation, discussion, and playing music

PRICING & FEES

A total fee of $1200.00 (USD) includes 5 nights shared accommodations in charming rustic cabins, 3 meals a day, and 4 full days of theory, harmony, and improvisation instruction. A full or 50% deposit is due by June 30. The total balance is due by July 15. For all cancellations from July 15 through August 1, deposits paid will be refunded minus a $250 cancellation fee. No refunds for cancellations after August 1.

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