John Baker Reports on Show Choir Camps of America

A Clinician's View on Show Choir Camps of America

The camp was held on the campus of Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois June 17th - 23rd, 2012 with over 700 students and 100 teachers and choral directors from across the country attending.  This was a record setting year for Show Choir Camps of America where attendance was concerned.

The students were divided into 10 groups.  Each, lead by a nationally recognized choral director and choreographer, learned a complete show including four songs.  Each song was choreographed and accompanied by a show choir band comprised of professional musicians.  Students had the opportunity to audition for Dance Ensembles or Jazz Choir.

Talent shows were performed - one by both teachers & staff; another by 20 of the most gifted students attending.  Several students were offered $10,000 scholarships to Millikin University.

One of the highlights of the week was the performance of Broadway star, Robert Bohmer.  Mr. Bohmer starred in Scarlet Pimpernel, Ragtime and Phantom of the Opera where he played the role of the Phantom.

Students chose one daily workshop to attend which ranged from How to Audition, Hip Hop Dance Class, Tricks and Lifts, How to Read Music to Motivational Techniques, How to be a Good Solo Singer and Future Music Teachers of America.

Teachers also attended classes where they reviewed new music and heard from some of the leading choral musicians in the country.

Each group performed their show to a packed auditorium on the last day of the week.