summer music camp
Discover the magic of music this summer!
For over 60 years, the Niagara Symphony Orchestra’s Summer Music Camp (SMC) has been a beloved tradition, bringing the joy of music to families across the Niagara Region and beyond. It’s more than just a camp; it’s a vibrant community where kids of all ages, abilities, and musical levels come together to explore, learn, and create.
Ignite a passion for music: At SMC, campers will experience the thrill of making music firsthand. Under the guidance of professional musicians and educators, they can delve into a variety of instruments and classes, discovering new talents and unlocking their musical potential.
Forge friendships that last a lifetime: SMC is a place where kids connect, share their love of music, and build friendships that extend far beyond the summer. It’s a chance to be part of something special, surrounded by a supportive and encouraging community.
Nurture growth through music: More than just fun and friendship, SMC fosters essential life skills. Through collaborative music-making, children develop cooperation, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of themselves and others. It’s an experience that enriches their lives in countless ways, supporting intellectual and social development.
Give your child the gift of music this summer. Join the Niagara Symphony Orchestra’s Summer Music Camp and become part of our musical family!
Now accepting applications for volunteers! Apply here: https://forms.gle/RU9kYZUQ1FhydERR7
Beacon Christian School
300 Scott Street
St. Catharines
SESSION 1
JULY 6 – 17, 2026
SESSION 2
JULY 20 – 31, 2026
NEXT STAGE SMC
JULY 6 – 31, 2026
Combination Program
Early Years: JK – Grade 3
Ensemble Classes: Grades 3 – 10
Orchestral Program
Grades 4 – 10
Next Stage SMC
Grades 9 – 12
Runs for the entirety of SMC
All grades completed as of June 2026
Parents & Tots
*1 guardian per camper*
18 months to 4 years
FEES
First Camper:
Full Day: $700
Half Day: $550
Additional Camper(s):
Full Day: $600
Half Day: $450
Non-Refundable Deposit: $150
Next Stage SMC:
$1250
Non-Refundable Deposit: $250
Parent & Tots:
$150
Non-Refundable Deposit: $50
Combination Program
No experience is required for Early Years or Ensemble classes.
Campers in Grade 3 can choose from either Early Years or Ensemble classes OR from both options.
Early Years
For campers completed JK to Grade 3 as of June 2026.
Classes: Early Years Percussion, Ukulele, Harpsicles, Early Years Winds or Early Years Keys
Ensemble Classes
For campers completed Grades 3 to 10 as of June 2026.
Classes: Guitar, Piano, Voice, Handbells, Harp
Orchestral Program
For campers completed Grades 4 to 10 as of June 2026.
Beginner or Experienced Orchestra: Brass & Winds, Strings or Percussion. Indicate your choice of instrument at registration.
Next Stage SMC
For campers completed Grades 9 to 12 as of June 2026.
Next Stage campers participate in morning classes, where they either explore a brand-new instrument or deepen their skills on their primary instrument. In the afternoon, they expand their musicianship through rotating classes in music theory, aural skills, keyboard harmony, followed by small‑ensemble collaboration. Their days culminate in rehearsing with the SMC Orchestra—if their primary instrument is orchestral—or developing as a soloist in classes tailored to their instrument. At the end of the day, Next Stage campers may also earn volunteer experience hours by assisting staff with post‑camp duties, including supporting our Extended Care program.
Parents & Tots
For campers aged 18 months to 4 years as of June 2026; each camper is required to be accompanied by an individual guardian.
Daily 45-minute interactive classes held at 10AM where campers and guardians bond through music by learning songs, playing instruments, singing, dancing, and moving to music.
Summer camp FAQ
Why SMC?
How long is SMC?
Is there before and after care?
For an additional fee, Extended Care is available from 8AM – 9AM and from 4PM – 5:30PM.
Fees: AM or PM Only Extended Care: $150 | AM & PM Extended Care: $250
A $1/min Late Pickup Fee also applies after 10 minutes.
Does my child need an instrument?
Instruments are provided for all classes.
Campers can choose to bring their own personal instruments where applicable.
Are bursaries available?
Is lunch provided?
Lunch & Snacks are not included.
Is there a discount for registering multiple campers?
The additional camper rates apply to any primary guardian registering multiple campers for either session or a singular camper for more than one session.
Additional camper rates apply to all additional campers registered by the same primary guardian.
Additional camper rates do not apply for the Parents & Tots or Next Stage SMC programs.