Summer Camp Synopsis!

“I would definitely recommend Summer Camp because it was fun, helped me grow as a musician, and gave me great memories,” said Ian about his experience at the 2026 SOUNDS Academy Summer Camp. Honestly, who wouldn’t love a week full of music, games and great people!

On Monday, June 8, SOUNDS Academy staff members drove 21 camp participants to Yavapai Community College in Prescott, AZ. Campers included students from SOUNDS Academy programs, as well as from Rosie’s House, Prescott Youth Orchestra, and Global Arts in LA. Wow, students came all the way from California? Is SOUNDS Academy Summer Camp becoming one of the most sought-after student music programs in the Southwest? We sure hope so!!

As always, students had numerous opportunities to practice together. Alexia commented, “I really enjoyed seeing how other students played, and that we were able to give each other tips about how to play something differently. Now it’s easier to practice at home!” Kids supporting kids. The power of collaboration really shined through!

Throughout the camp, students experienced first-hand how SOUNDS Academy’s character values intertwine with music. Adoni said “I won the award for Teamwork! I think I won this because I played a piano duet with Abraham and helped others by explaining to new campers how to do things, and where things were.” This was her 3rd year at camp, which she displayed by being a leader for others.

Aaron, a violin student, noted, “I felt like I used Creativity the most, especially to help me to remember to breathe while playing. My teachers said that I would be able to relax and breathe better if I moved with the flow of the music and really felt the emotion of the song. I had to be creative in how to remind myself about this, and now I feel much more comfortable both practicing and performing.”

Adoni said, “Probably my favorite thing to do at camp was play all the fun games and activities.” This was especially beneficial because the games and activities were specifically chosen to allow students to practice our character values. They played Party Box (Creativity) and Simon Says (Leadership), practiced playing techniques (Resilience), played Capture the Flag (Teamwork), and hiked the Grand Canyon (Perseverance).

A walk around the Grand Canyon’s Rim Trail after a few days of focused music practice amidst new surroundings and new people was both challenging and exciting. Alexia said, “I really liked [hiking the Grand Canyon] because I got to learn more about some of our teachers.”

The week ended with a wonderful student performance. More than 80 family members drove up from Phoenix to attend. Ian’s parents said “our favorite part was seeing all the students perform with confidence and joy!” Aaron’s mom, who was sadly delayed by traffic on I-17, said, “I missed the concert but still got to see Aaron and all the students and families. Everyone was so happy!”

SOUNDS Academy Summer Camp is truly creating Today’s Musicians, Tomorrow’s Leaders!

Thank you to the staff, teachers, and families for creating a memorable experience for each and every student. We are especially thankful to the Arizona Community Foundation, The Burton Family Foundation, and the Ingebritson Family Foundation for their support in making Summer Camp possible. We can’t wait for next year!

Happy trails to you until next time! 👏🏿👏🏿