Music Camp FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates for camp?

Official dates for the camp are July 27-August 1, 2025.
Drop off for the camp will be at 1pm on Sunday, July 27, and pickup will be after the students' concert on Friday, August 1.

Where does the camp take place?

Musical activities will take place in historic Gilmora Hall at St. Francis Xavier University, and other activities will happen on the StFX campus.

Is it an overnight camp?

The camp has both day and overnight options. Camp activities will run daily from 9am-9pm.

Where are the overnight accommodations?

Campers will be put up in a dormitory at StFX in the MSB complex, which is right beside Gilmora Hall, the music building.

Can I choose who I will get for a roommate?

No roommates are necessary! Each camper will be assigned their own room and all campers will stay together on the same floor along with camp chaperones.

Camp pricing.

The following rates apply:

Full Price: $800 +HST for overnight campers.

                 $650 +HST for day campers (HST only applies to day campers 14 years and older)

 

*Early Bird:$675 +HST for overnight campers.

                  $525 +HST for day campers (HST only applies to day campers 14 years and older)

 

*Early bird pricing is valid until March 31, 2025.

Do you offer a discount for local campers who will not use overnight accommodations?

Yes! We have a rate for local campers who want to sleep at home. 
The day camper fee is $650 +HST per camper, which includes lunch and dinner.
We also have an early bird rate for day campers of $525 each (50% deposit is required by March 31, 2025 for early bird price; balance due by July 1, 2025).

What methods of payment do you accept?

Payment can be made through St.FX’s secure website (payment portal will be available by January 1, 2025).
Major credit cards, and e-transfers accepted. 

When is the deadline for enrollment?

The deadline for registration for the camp is July 15, 2025.

Are meals included?

Yes, meals are included in your camper fees (please see note about day camper meals above) and are provided by StFX’s dining services team at Morrison Hall.

Does the meal plan accommodate dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! There is a wide variety of meals available at Morrison Hall, and there are options for most types of dietary restrictions, including gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, and more. For more information about dining services at StFX, click here

Are there rules and regulations for the camp?

Of course! Regardless of your age, everyone who visits the StFX campus must adhere to the rules. Please see our code of conduct for campers. 

Are there age limitations for participants?

Yes, this camp is open to students aged 12-18 at the time of the camp. If you are going to turn 12 later in the year, please contact our administration team to see if we can accommodate you.

Do I have to audition?

No audition is necessary! This is an inclusive camp for all skill levels, although if you have no musical experience whatsoever, then some aspects of the camp might be too challenging for you.

Are vocalists welcome?

Absolutely! This camp is for all MUSICIANS, and that includes vocalists!

What musical level do I need to be at to participate?

This is an inclusive camp for most skill levels. At the very least, campers should have rudimentary skills on their instrument/voice.

Do I need to bring my own instrument(s)?

Yes, please bring your own instrument, as well as any necessary accessories (such as reeds, tuner, spare strings, patch cord, drumsticks, brushes, cymbals, etc). If you don’t have your own instrument, your school might have an option to borrow theirs, or you can look into renting an instrument at your local music store.

Are there drum sets at the camp?

Yes, we have a limited number of drum sets, so drummers just need to bring cymbals, sticks and brushes. If you have them, a drum key and a high-hat clutch are also valuable items to have.

Are there guitar/bass amps at the camp?

Yes, we have a limited number of guitar and bass amps, so just bring your instrument, a tuner and a patch cable.

Are there pianos at camp?

Yes, each of the band rooms we’ll work in has a grand piano. The is also a keyboard lab with digital pianos for private practice with headphones.

How much money should I bring to camp?

Campers do not need to bring any money, as all activities and meals during the camp are covered by the camp fee. If you would like, campers can bring some money to purchase snacks, etc. on campus.

Are there health care services?

While there are no health care services available at the university during the summer, we will have an on-call camp associate trained in first aid. Additionally, the campus is just 3 minutes away from St. Martha’s Hospital in Antigonish.

Who is the Artist in Residence for 2025?

We are excited to announce that the 2025 Artists in Residence will be multiple-JUNO Award Winning Nova Scotian saxophonist, Mike Murley!

What kind of schedule will I have?

Expect to be busy! Classes will run from 9am-4:30pm each day (with the exception of the first day which starts at 1pm). There will also be fun evening activities as well.

Will there be any free time during the camp?

Absolutely! All work and no play makes anyone unhappy! In addition to significant meal breaks, there is free time scheduled in each day, which may include swimming, outdoor sports and other games, and evening activities such as movie nights and jam sessions.

Who do my parents contact if they need to reach me while I’m at camp?

You can call either of the camp directors directly:

Prof. Adrean Farrugia – 416-804-3873
Prof. Dr. Paul Rushka – 902-867-4529

You can also call St. FX Campus security 24hrs/day to get in touch with us: 902-867-4444