Camp Encore/Coda For a great summerof music, sports, and friends. music education camp summer maine jazz classical rock theater encore coda maine Maine ME

Hi Ellen and Jamie,

Where do I begin with the superlatives to describe our family's experience with camp this past summer?! Mark's time at camp was an experience that went way beyond our already high expectations. You folks are to be commended for all the hard work that you have put in over the years in creating a camping environment that is not only musically rewarding but fun.

We were most happy that during this summer, Mark finally found his "niche" of kids who could be his friends, kids who accepted him as a "peer". This has been most meaningful to all of us. I am not being hyperbolic when I say that the experience was "transforming" for Mark...

The ensembles were superb. Mark got a rich and varied musical experience in all of them. He already had a terrific interest in playing before going to camp. His interest has only heightened since then as I hear him practicing all his instruments on a daily basis. It's too bad that he has to go back to school now and have to work around his homework assignments! He has more direction in his jazz studies now and is beginning to learn standards and more theory.

You really took pains to hire a staff of fine teachers who are not only skilled on their instruments but who can also relate in a very positive and supportive manner with the students. Alice was a delight to work with and gave Mark some new perspectives on playing clarinet. Alex really boosted Mark's confidence in improvising...The counselors and other ensemble teachers were first-rate.

Finally, I really enjoyed being part of the staff for the first semester. The students were very eager and easy to work with; the atmosphere of the camp was both pleasant and relaxing. Once again, I would like to thank you for this opportunity for both Mark and me. This has been about the best summer that our family has had!

-staff member and parent from Littleton, MA

Dear Jamie.

Thank you for enabling Elizabeth to have such a wonderful camp experience. She had a terrific three 1/2 weeks. She was proud of all she learned and even better, she made many friends. She especially loved her voice lessons with Vicky and it sounds like Vicky even gave her some extra coaching. She's also proud that she learned to sing in 4 part harmony. Surprisingly, that was a new experience for her. From all that Elizabeth had to tell us, it sounds like she was supported and encouraged every step of the way. Thank you for that. You run a fantastic camp and we're so happy both Nate and Elizabeth were able to spend time at Encore-Coda...

-parent from Sharon, MA

Dear Jamie, Ellen, Hannah, and the rest of the Encore-Coda staff,

     Thank you for a wonderful musical experience. This was my first year at Encore-Coda, and I'm so glad that I had the chance to come to camp. I'd just like to express my total and complete gratitude for making this summer the best ever!!
     Thank you, Jamie and Ellen, for being so helpful as well as funny and nice, and for organizing all of the amazing activities! Thank you to all the staff for EVERYTHING. From the lessons to 'Into the Woods', you were essential parts of wonderful experiences...
     Have a wonderful year, and I hope to see you all next summer!

-camper from Bethesda, MD

Jamie & Ellen,

I just want to thank you so much for the amazing experience that you provided Kemsen these past 3 weeks at Encore/Coda. She came home inspired and empowered. She made friends that she will think about everyday. She was able to realize her potential. What you do matters and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

-parent from Harrison, ME

Hey Jamie!

I just received the package from camp with all the drum set equipment I accidentally left behind -- I'm so sorry about that. I haven't put my drum set back together yet so I hadn't even realized the stuff was missing! Anyway, thank you very much for sending it back, and thank you even more for the great summer at camp this year. Everything is so wonderful, I miss it already. I can't wait for next summer!

-camper from Jamaica Plain, MA

Dear Jamie & Ellen,

...camp has meant so much to me in the past decade of my life. Not only has it been my summer home away from home, and a great place to learn more about music (which was the original reason that I was drawn to E/C), but it has also taught me so much about people, relationships and leadership. I can say with certainty that camp was one of the key factors to help me develop my interpersonal skills and definitely *the* key factor in expanding my leadership skills. I have always loved working with other people and with children, but only at camp did I get the opportunity to do so through key leadership positions that were unique to camp and not available anywhere else.

Camp in many ways is so special to me because of how much time I spent there growing up and learning more about myself. When I was younger, all the way back in those first summers I spent at Encore/Coda (1995, 1996...), I was really shy. I actually marvel at the progression I have made since then, coming out of my shell and being more comfortable in my own skin. Camp definitely helped me do that! Through my summers at camp and especially through rising up in the leadership track (CIT==>counselor==>head staff)...I gained the self-confidence to take risks and put myself on the line. And, by doing so, I definitely gained amazing benefits that I don't think I could have necessarily found anywhere other than E/C...

I really missed being at camp this past summer, but was so glad I got the chance to visit. You two really create a wonderful summer environment for so many young people and I thank you so much for everything you have done for me! I will always treasure my camp friends and memories...

-camper and staff alum from Rockville, MD

Dear Jamie & Ellen,

I can’t believe that it was 10 years ago this Memorial Day weekend that I packed all of my belongings into my ‘82 Toyota Corolla and drove from Rochester, NY to Sweden, ME. I was happy to have a summer job, but didn’t know exactly what to expect, and I was worried since I had just graduated and didn’t have a full-time job yet. I remember how warmly you welcomed me, and how you, Glen, and I grew close as we worked together by ourselves the first few weeks setting up camp. I have nothing but wonderful memories from that summer, and I have more than once wished that I could have returned to do it again...

-staff alum from Boston, MA

Hi Jamie and Ellen,

     What a wonderful summer experience Camp Encore/Coda was for Jake!!! Thank you very much for offering musical students not only an educational summer experience, but a camp experience that was full of fun, friendly and thoughtful peers and staff members.
     Although Jake was a bit leery when he discovered that most campers attend only one session of Encore/Coda and that most of his buddies were heading for home after three weeks, he quickly came around to befriending his new bunkmates and other new campers! He liked each and every one of his counselors and CITs, too. He really progressed in terms of his musical knowledge, both in theory and in performance. Jake thoroughly enjoyed learning from Jennifer and Brent, and was also very happy to practice with his practice supervisors. I'm sure you won't be surprised when I tell you that Jake is already looking forward to a full summer at Encore/Coda in 2007!
     I hope you enjoyed a nice end to your very busy summer, and that your daughter has begun what will be a great 2006-2007 school year. We look forward to hearing from you in October.

-parent from Wellesley, MA

Jamie:

...I didn't have a chance to say good-bye before I left. Just wanted to tell you that I had a great summer at Encore-Coda. I consider it a privilege to be a teacher there and look forward already to next summer. Have a good year.

-staff member from Wilmington, NC

Dear Jamie & Ellen,

I cannot express enough superlatives about this camp's quality: Administratively, Conceptual constructs about the camp, Staff, Food, Facilities, Laundry, Off-campus excursions, Dances...everything was so wonderful... I'm hard to please and I think that this camp is terrific! A Huge thank you to you all!!

-parent from Holliston, MA

Dear Jamie and Ellen,

What a superb concert we were treated to last night at Deertrees. The audience was ecstatic in their accolades. The expertise and professionalism of your musicians and conductor was obvious to all...

Truly, it was a very memorable evening with three major resources in the Lakes Region combining in a joint effort of mutual benefit: Camp Encore/Coda, Deertrees Theater and Lakes Environmental Association.

We look forward to many more such collaborative efforts in the future.

-guiding member of Lakes Environmental Association, Bridgton, ME

Dear Jamie & Ellen,

Thank you soooo much for the scholarship. I got to go to your camp and I enjoyed every bit of it! I especially liked swimming, sports, practice, theater, food, concerts and 'Sunday Funday'... I go to this camp because it's the only place that I'm with people like me. People who share the same passion for music that I have. So, I say again, thank you, Jamie & Ellen.

-camper from Poland, ME

Dear Jamie and Ellen,

Although it's probably apparent by now that Lily won't be attending camp this summer, I wanted to tell you directly about it...

Lily loved Encore-Coda, and may yet return in the future if possible. Her summers with you were everything you'd hope for in a camp, and it was very hard to change. You can see how long it took me to write you. Martin and I felt that she really blossomed under your care, as a camper, as a young girl away from home, and as a musician. Ellen, you were her favorite teacher, and she's especially fond of you. It was the perfect fit, and we'll always be grateful. I imagine as parents you know how meaningful it is to be able to feel the kind of trust we have in you.

Thank you so very much. We hope the coming summer is smooth, wonderful, and as enriching as what Lily experienced with you.

-parent from Brooklyn, NY

Dear Jamie & Ellen,

Just a note to say thank you so much for another wonderfully fun and enriching summer. I am so grateful to you both for the continued opportunities to live and work at Encore/Coda, and for the support, advice and laughter you provide me. To another fantastic summer in 2007.

-staff member from London, England

Dear Ellen and Jamie,

Thank you so much for having Bonnie & me at Encore/Coda. We truly enjoyed working with the students & performing for them. It was a joy for me to see everyone looking so young & happy, and the camp looks as beautiful as ever. I was impressed with Richard's organization and warm welcome. Thanks again!

-staff alum visiting artist from Lincoln, MA

Dear Jamie and Ellen,

     On this lovely late summer afternoon, I'm reminded of Anthony's time at camp -- and the fact that we want to be sure to let you know what our family's experience with Camp Encore/Coda was like.
     As you may recall, this was our family's first overnight camp experience. It seemed from what we had heard that this camp and Anthony would be a good match, and we were delighted to have our expectations met so well. Anthony was busy, engaged, working hard and having time for fun, too. He was challenged in a friendly atmosphere, he met the challenge and grew from it. He came home changed, I think from having learned that hard work can be fun and can create wonderful results. We are thrilled. Anthony says he thought it was a good, relaxing environment. He learned a lot by being challenged. He liked the positive atmosphere. And he thought the food was very good...
     Anthony can't think of anything he didn't like! In fact, he was talking about next summer before we even left the camp in August. He has started the fall working at his clarinet with more enthusiasm that I have seen in the past, I think with the idea that he wants to play in the wind ensemble again next summer.
     ...Thank you for creating this wonderful camp for kids like Anthony! (and Ellen, thanks for finding his fleece jacket and returning it!!!)

-parent from Brookline, MA

Dear Jamie and Ellen,

Thank you so much for inviting me to this camp. I had a lot of fun here. The camp site is great! Ellen, thank you for working with me on my violin music in orchestra!! I think it's great that you have a great music camp for kids who can learn a lot here. I will miss both of you a lot!!

-camper from Washington, DC

Dear Jamie & Ellen,

I apologize for not writing this earlier. I want to thank you so much for making it possible for Louise to experience her 1st (I hope, of many) summers @ Camp Encore/Coda. Never mind Louise! I had a great time! We both did.

From the bottom of my heart I can't thank you enough. Your camp, your mission, your knowledge of children's emotions and needs are second to none. Your love of music, your love of children and music, your energy and caring shine through at all times. Any individual who has the opportunity to experience Camp Encore/Coda is given a true gift. Louise and I thank you for that gift.

Enjoy a happy, healthy & prosperous year. Hope to see you next summer...

-parent and staff member from Brownfield, ME

Dear Jamie,

Thank you very much for Kurt's evaluation which arrived today. His teacher here was very pleased with the progress he made at camp (his parents are pleased too) and was especially pleased to be able to read his evaluation...

Kurt loved Camp Encore/Coda and wants to go back next year for both sessions. He experienced success as a musician for the 1st time and is clearly proud of himself. There aren't music opportunities at his school so playing a lot with his peers is a new and welcome experience. He's going to be in a trio group starting this fall-violin, cello and flute and camp made him feel excited about that. As you know, a positive attitude is everything with young teens.

Kurt liked soccer and capture the flag... He liked the food and is proud of his advancing musicality and plays more confidently... We' re pleased that Kurt is beginning to identify himself as a musician as a result of camp and we're pleased he learned so much...

-parent from Newburgh, ME

Hi Jamie and Ellen

I would have to say this has been one of the best experiences, if not THE best experience of Jacob's life. From the minute we drove into Encore Coda - we both realized what a fantastic place this would be. The counselors greeted us enthusiastically, the grounds were beautiful, and it was filled with kids wanting to throw themselves into their music.

The ensembles were great, the instructors fantastic, and the social element was wonderful. One thing we really appreciated was that groups were not assigned by age but rather by level. Jacob enjoyed the opportunity to be with older kids and really grew from being placed with some more advanced musicians.

-parent from Sharon, MA

Hi, Jamie and Ellen,

I liked that the camp was wholesome, music and laughter oriented, sincere, with good healthy food, a coming-together of children and young adults who share an affection for music. I was astonished to receive such a thoughtful, in-depth commentary on his cello playing. I really value that, and shared it with Rafe, and will with Mr. Lewy, his teacher...

Raphael said, "I finally feel like I am with kids just like me." He had a wonderful time. He connected well with his camp mates, his counselors and his teachers. He enjoyed the music making and the setting. He was a bit dejected to leave, and is firm that he wants to return next year...

I thought it was a lovely place and a perfect experience for my son. I am so happy for that. He loved it there, it has been a happy experience for him that lingers in his discussions as he gears up for fall. Thank you for sharing camp encore-coda with us.

-parent from NYC

Dear Jamie and Ellen,

      Now that both kids are back in school routines, I'm finally catching up on end-of-summer tasks, including the feedback you asked for. In brief, we have only the best of things to say about both boys' camp experiences this summer.
     Henry loved being a CIT and really enjoyed the social aspect-- being a part of that group of kids--and the work of having regular tasks and being responsible for younger campers. Henry's work with Brent this summer seemed highly charged, as if he really wanted to get just as much out of his lessons and practice times as he possibly could, and Brent continued to challenge and inspire him. (Henry had been on the fence about giving up all his Saturdays to travel down to Boston for the NEC Jazz Prep program, especially since it's such a long drive for us, but Brent's encouragement tipped the balance; he's auditioning today. ) He came home from camp with a pretty clear sense of what he wants to work on and accomplish this year. The trips to hear concerts at Deertrees were a highlight for him, and he was really grateful for the opportunity to go. He also really appreciated the staff concerts at camp.
      Jack arrived with lots of trepidation about everything, and now can't wait to come back next year. He also has nothing but positive feedback. Basketball was almost as satisfying as music for him, and having that balance between physical activity and music was essential. It seemed to work out perfectly. He loved Mike Bagetta, and learned a great deal in a short time. The most important thing, however, is not that he became a better guitarist, though he did, but that he came home from camp with more of a sense of what kind of person he wants to be. His counselors were excellent role models, and that is a great gift to a 13 year old--a chance to be with young men who know how to work hard and enjoy themselves too. He was deeply affected by them, and got a glimpse of his future by being with them.
     We are grateful that for the most part you hold the line in discouraging electronics, not allowing cell phones, and maintaining an atmosphere that is different from the high tech world the kids live in the rest of the year. Camp is like a bubble, and we're glad the kids get to experience that, without too much intrusion from home or the outside world.
     As the parent of two boys who are very different, I've been thrilled to hear that camp was equally loved by both of them; it's also given them a shared experience that they both care about deeply. They are still exchanging camp stories and anecdotes, and for the first time they are really interested in each other's music. Since they came home from camp, music has been their common ground, and they talk about and listen to music together every day. So, in all, positive outcomes all around. Sorry I can't offer you guys any criticism, but you seem to have it all figured out. We have two very happy campers.

-parent from Wilton, NH

Dear Jamie & Ellen,

Thank you for the wonderful experience and the great hospitality of camp Encore-Coda. I hope to come back next year.

-camper from NYC

Jamie,

Thanks for sending along Tommy's camera. He had a great time this summer. We were very impressed with the parent's day performances. Talk to you soon.

-parent from Brookline, MA

Hello Jamie and Ellen,

...An important goal for us as parents is to find social activities and educational opportunities for Gianni to promote his growth and development as a social being as well as a musician. Encore-Coda served him well on both fronts. We saw in campers and faculty alike, a seriousness of purpose and real enthusiasm about creating music. How wonderful that Gianni could immerse himself in music the way he was able to for the three and one half week session! Socially the camp provided a peer group in which Gianni felt quite comfortable, and that no doubt, had something to do with commonality of purpose. He made some very good friends and seems to be staying in touch with them. The camp attracts good kids.

We also felt secure about him being there. From emails, forms etc. required, and web information we could see how well-organized and trusted the camp is. We felt Gianni was safe there and did not worry, even though he had never been away from us longer than a week in his life. I think that the bunk life must have been good because he was returned to us not just happy but looking like he'd taken good care of himself...

So thanks again, for a very wonderful summer and for your generosity in providing scholarship funds that made it possible for our son to attend Encore-Coda. We think he'd like to return again next summer, so let's keep in touch about application deadlines, etc. Hope you have a productive and musical year!

-parent from Cambridge, MA

CAMP ENCORE-CODA