Finding the right summer camps for your student can be challenging, but if you’re looking for a blend of enrichment, play, and socialization an arts camp is likely a great fit!
The Benefits of Learning the Arts
Learning about the arts is a critical part of a well-rounded curriculum for students of all ages. In a recent study by the U.S. Department of Education in conjunction with the National Endowment of the Arts— it is clear that children’s access to an arts education has a direct impact on positive social-emotional and academic outcomes.
Participation in out-of-school arts activities is positively correlated with many social-emotional attributes. And we’re not surprised to hear that— because we see those changes unfold in real time while working with students everyday. From stimulating their imaginations to helping build problem-solving skills— singing, painting, drawing, writing, and creating we see growth in real time.
An arts education boosts:
- Confidence
- Fine-motor skills
- Emotional intelligence
- Cognitive growth
- And more!
What Students Benefit Most from Choir-Based Arts Camps?
An arts education supports students holistically, including their academic performance. During a time when arts learning has been deprioritized in K-12 schools, finding supplemental arts education for your student could be the difference between surviving and thriving across all school subjects. If your student struggles with interpersonal skills, a lack of confidence, or academics— arts may unlock their hidden potential. In K-5 students, taking art classes outside of school was positively linked to reading, math, and science scores.
Music in particular is proven to rewire the way we think. A study from the University of Georgia showcases why this happens. Musical training creates new pathways in the brain. Learning music in a collaborative group setting like a choir teaches valuable life lessons, creates social bonds, and helps students to flourish.
Why Redmond Students Love Columbia Choirs Summer Camps
Our day camps in Redmond, WA are designed for students of all levels to explore choir, learning music reading skills and vocal techniques all while making friends and learning artistic collaboration. Outside of choir rehearsal time students get the opportunity to play games, participate in arts and crafts, and experience classes with special guest artists.
A blend of arts experiences with a foundation in key enrichment and skill-building creates the perfect environment for students to thrive. The five days of singing and fun will culminate in a free performance for family and friends on Friday afternoon. No choral experience is necessary, all students aged 5-10 are welcome to join.
I love that when Luna’s at choir camp, because it’s the off season for regular Columbia choirs that she gets to sing with other kids who also love to sing and just she gets to be so immersed in music for that whole week and she just comes home beaming, we love it.
Sami, Parent
A Day in the Life of a Camp Student
Our camps run Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM – and we fit a lot of learning, playing, and singing into that timeframe!
9:00AM: Arrival
Students arrive, get settled, and begin warmups. We use fun vocal exercises singing and full body movement to prepare for the day.
9:30AM: First Rehearsal
We’ll work on the music for the week to prepare for the end-of-camp concert.
10:15AM: Snack Time
Time to fuel that creativity with the snack students brought with them today.
10:30AM: Class With Our Guest Artist
We welcome our guest artist for the day. They might explore dance, acting, or musical instruments depending on the camp theme.
11:00AM: Craft Time
Students get the opportunity to create with their hands. The craft will align with the week’s theme.
11:30AM: Second Rehearsal
We dig back into the music and rehearse together. We incorporate singing games throughout to build skills and have fun.
12:15PM: Lunch & Games
Students enjoy their sack lunches, have the opportunity to socialize, and play games together.
I like going to summer camp because I get to make new friends and sing together.
Luna, Day Camp Student
1:00PM: Themed Activity
We explore an activity that further expands on the week’s theme. Campers will be put into groups to compete in a physical activity style challenge like freeze dance or relay race to reinforce the musical themes and are fun for everyone.
1:30PM: Musicianship Class
This educational block explores music theory, singing, and other musicianship skills.
2:00PM: Final Rehearsal
We sing and learn new music together one more time for the day.
3:00 PM: Afternoon Activities
The official day camp activities end at 3pm and students can be picked up anytime between 3-4pm. During that time we host group activities to keep students engaged until it’s time to be picked up.
2026 Day Camp Themes
We are thrilled to offer two summer camps in partnership with the City of Redmond this summer, each distinct in the music and experience so students can enjoy one or both independently.
Choir Camp: Around the World | July 13-17
Pack your musical passport and explore singing from around the world. Campers will learn traditional songs and musical games from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas while discovering how different cultures teach and experience music. Through movement, rhythm, and joyful ensemble singing, children will build music skills, cultural understanding, and confidence in a welcoming community setting. The week will conclude with a performance for friends and family to share the music learned throughout the week.
Choir Camp: On Broadway | July 27 – 31
Step into the spotlight and explore the excitement of musical theater. Campers will sing songs from The Sound of Music and other Broadway favorites while learning the basics of performance, staging, and storytelling. Through playful rehearsals and group collaboration, children will grow their confidence and creativity as they prepare music to share. The week will conclude with a performance for friends and family to share the music learned throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my student need singing or choir experience to participate in your camps?
No experience is required! Our Day Camps for students ages 5-10 are open to all experience levels and no experience is necessary. If you have questions about whether our summer camps are the right fit for your student, please contact us. We’re happy to talk about it with you.
Will students have an opportunity to explore art outside of music?
Yes! Our camps focus on choral arts and will mainly be focused on rehearsals, guest teaching artists, and music theory but we also program plenty of time to play games, do arts and crafts, and socialize outside of rehearsal sessions.
Can my student enroll for both weeks of day camps with Columbia Choirs?
Yes! With two different musical themes, students will learn different styles of music and experience new activities during each week.
What does my student need to bring?
Please bring a water bottle, sack lunch, and snack daily. All other materials are provided.