A Music Camp For Grown Ups
Experience the joy of making music at Midsummer Music Retreat (MMR), where adult musicians of all skill levels come together in a non-competitive setting to learn, perform, and have fun.
Since 1983, MMR has crafted a unique week-long camp, offering a rich curriculum that caters to singers and instrumentalists alike. Immerse yourself in many ensembles including orchestra, chorus, concert band, string orchestra, and jazz big band. Elevate your skills through focused sectionals, performance opportunities, and a variety of electives ranging from chamber music to drum circles.
Our vibrant social program complements the rich musical experience, creating an unforgettable week! Evenings at MMR are a blend of relaxation and entertainment, offering a variety of optional fun activities.
- Amazing faculty concerts
- Our Club Morendo variety show, where campers showcase their diverse talents.
- A closing night highlight is Skit Night, a camper-created sketch comedy event that promises laughter and light-heartedness.
- Enjoy a beer or glass of wine and watch camper performances at the afternoon Fermata bar
MMR’s social program offers the perfect balance to the day’s musical pursuits, ensuring that you leave with not just enhanced musical skills, but cherished memories and new friendships.
Nestled in the scenic beauty of Walla Walla, Washington, the Midsummer Music Retreat offers an idyllic setting for adult musicians to immerse themselves in a week of musical enrichment and social enjoyment. Walla Walla, a gem in Washington’s Wine Country, is known for its vibrant arts and culinary scenes.
Come to camp a day early and explore Walla Walla with a wine tour!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What type of music curriculum does MMR offer?
- MMR provides a comprehensive curriculum including orchestra, band, chorus, jazz big band, chamber ensembles, and various electives for adult singers and instrumentalists. Our faculty is made up of accomplished professional musicians and educators. See the About MMR page for more!
- How can MMR benefit my musical journey?
- Campers gain confidence, improve skills, get exposed to new repertoire, make new friends, and enhance their enthusiasm for music making. Campers return year after year for the unique experience of MMR!
- Is MMR suitable for all skill levels?
- Yes; MMR caters to adult musicians of varying skill levels, offering a non-competitive yet challenging environment to improve and enjoy music. MMR does not require an audition but instead relies on a self-assessment, which is described in more detail here.
- What types of performance opportunities are available?
- Performance is an important component of the music experience. Campers perform at the Festival Concert at the end of the week in their large ensembles. Most campers also perform in smaller groups at the Saturday Sampler program. There are many other optional performance opportunities throughout the week, which are described in further detail here.
- What kind of social activities does MMR offer?
- Most evenings at camp have optional social activities, including the always amazing faculty concert, a coffee shop style open mic variety show, and Skit Night, a camper-created sketch comedy program. Campers also enjoy meals together and socializing at the daily wine bar, the Fermata Bar.
- How long is the MMR camp, and when is it held?
- MMR is a week-long festival workshop, usually held the first week of August. The dates for this year’s camp are listed at the top of this page.
- How much does MMR cost?
- There is a program fee and optional on-campus housing and meal plans to pick from. Fees are described here. To try and make MMR accessible to all, we also offer financial aid scholarships to help cover part of the program fees.
- Where is MMR located, and what is the setting like?
- MMR is held at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington, featuring a beautiful, walkable campus in a picturesque town in the middle of Washington’s wine country. You can come to camp a day early and explore Walla Walla!
- Can I participate in electives, and what are some examples?
- Yes, while the morning is for large-ensemble and sectionals, the afternoon has three periods available for electives. Campers can choose from electives like jazz big band, singing, coached chamber music groups, flute choir, saxophone ensemble, sight reading, drum circle, and improvisation. This year’s camp electives are listed here.