The Moores School of Music (MSM) is opening its doors to middle and high school students this summer with two popular music camps at the Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts. The annual Cougar Band and Cougar Choir Camps invite aspiring musicians and vocalists of all levels to the University of Houston to train with MSM faculty, offering campers a chance to refine their skills and work with mentors in a fun, hands-on environment.
“We give campers a truly world class experience,” Associate Director of Choral Studies Jeb Mueller said of the Cougar Camps.
Mueller heads up Cougar Choir Camp, a four-day program geared toward preparing students for the highly competitive Texas All-State choir auditions. One of his top priorities is ensuring that the program offers each camper a diverse and enriching experience. In addition to All-State training, campers can select from a wide array of electives, ranging from conducting to acting classes, to complete their camp schedule.
“We consider every detail to make sure our campers—and their parents—have a positive experience,” said Mueller. He added that the camp counselors, all of whom are MSM students, play an invaluable role in shaping that experience. “Our counselors represent UH with pride, passion and diligence. They’re the heart of the camp!”
Cougar Choir Camp is offering two sessions this year, one from July 26 – 29 and one from August 2 – 5. Both sessions are open to Texas students entering 9th through 12th grade and students have the option to attend as residential overnight or day campers.
From July 9 – 13, Cougar Band Camp brings budding percussion, woodwind and brass musicians to the UH campus for five days of high-energy classes led by renowned clinicians and MSM alumni, culminating in concert performances on the last day. The camp also offers a variety of electives, ranging from an introduction to classical music to leadership and jazz classes, along with evening activities that show off UH facilities and classrooms.
“This camp is a uniquely UH experience,” said Director of Athletic Bands and Cougar Band Camp Director Marc Martin. He added that, because current students serve as counselors, campers also insight into the UH college experience.
“[Campers] are able to connect with counselors so they learn more about campus life and the wonderful programs we have here,” said Martin. “I’m especially proud to say that many of our current band program students and camp counselors attended our camp before college. Some attended the camp for 6 years!”
The camp is open to students in 6th through 12th grade. Like Cougar Choir Camp, students can choose to attend as residential overnight or commuter campers.
Registration for the Cougar Choir Camp and Cougar Band Camp is now open and spots are sure to fill up quickly for both in-demand camps. Learn more about Cougar Choir Camp and Cougar Band Camp and sign up today!