For many students, attending the UMass Lowell Mary Jo Leahey Symphonic Band Camp program is a once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in a quality honors band program with students from all over New England. There are many ways to support the program and we encourage you to think about lending your support. Several alumni give $500-600, the cost of supporting one student with a FULL scholarship ~ this makes an enormous difference to those who could otherwise not attend. University Music, a locally owned business run by graduates of the University, has supported the program from the very beginning, with donations of some of the supplies for camp, and we thank them for their continued assistance. Contributions to the program are becoming increasingly important as operating costs continue to rise.
Many music programs in the state have been facing budget cuts, and under such circumstances students have limited exposure to the professional possibilities and broad performance experiences that exist in music. This camp provides students with a window into such experiences. Students are able to enroll in courses such as conducting, score analysis, music theory, piano, and percussion, in addition to participating in mixed chamber ensembles, concert band, wind ensemble, jazz band, French horn choir, clarinet choir and so much more. All students have the opportunity to work along side faculty and staff, who embrace the opportunity to share their own enthusiasm and expertise. This in addition to performing and learning with other students from widely diverse backgrounds makes this program a unique experience.
If you have enjoyed past programs, believe in music opportunities for all students, are amazed at what our students have achieved in a week, or have an idea of what this means to students who are able to participate, please consider a tax deductible contribution to the program.