I went to the Aebersold camp - it was a great experience. Our combo
rehearsed in the basement of the dining hall a couple of blocks down. The
basement also happened to be the Christmas decoration storage room, so
we rehearsed in a freezing cold room filled with Christmas trees. At the end,
we took pictures hiding amongst them with our instruments.
Also, the year I was there, was the year Eric Alexander and two other guys
were mugged at gunpoint walking home from the dining hall. Another girl and
I were walking back alone just an hour before that happened. It is kind of
scary, but I am glad it was not us, even though it had to be someone at all.
The faculty at the camp was great and there were concerts every night at
dinner and then a full concert in the theatre later on at night. It featured
the faculty - and there was an awesome faculty including people like Don
Braden, Eric Alexander, Scott Wendholdt, etc. Then after the concert,
there were several different jam sessions that you could go to. So, there
were lots of opportunities to listen to great music, AND play great music
every night of the camp.
When you first get at the camp, they have you audition and take a theory
test. The audition is to place you with a group that plays at a level similar
to yours, and the theory test puts you in a theory class where they feel
you will learn the most and that won't be too over your head. Your
auditioners are very nice and want you to feel comfortable during the
audition, so it is stress free. Once you are put into groups, the teachers are
really fun and make your combo experience a blast.
At the end of the camp, all the different groups perform. I remember for my
groups performance, I was pretty nervous, but I nevertheless impressed the
audience. I can remember I heard "wow" a couple time after my solos. Also,
the teachers write a little thing about your playing - what you do well and
how you can improve, and what you should practice.
The camp is for all ages and ability, so if you haven't yet, I recommend you
check it out!
