Walla Walla Symphony

Walla Walla Symphony Youth Orchestra is excited to announce the 2026 "Jump Start" Summer Camp for players of string, woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments!

This camp will take place July 27 -31 and will be open to incoming 6th-12th graders with at least one year of experience playing their instrument in orchestra, band, or private lessons.

Three ensembles will rehearse daily for a Friday Showcase/concert; family and friends are invited to attend the Showcase in the Pioneer Middle School Commons.

Special thanks to Walla Walla Public Schools for use of their facilities! 

CONCEPT: "Jump Start" your orchestral experience for the upcoming school year! This camp is designed for students who are ready to dive deep into playing to prepare for the upcoming school year. Campers will be placed into either the String Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, or Symphony Orchestra, depending on their level of experience. Each ensemble will meet daily to rehearse repertoire designed to reinvigorate and review what students are learning in their school ensembles.

Campers also work in sectionals to study techniques specific to their instruments, and explore other musical topics such as rhythm reading, music theory, ear training, and composition. At the end of the week, campers will showcase what they have prepared together in an informal concert for friends and family.

CAMPERS: This camp is open to all students entering grades 6-12 with a love for music. At least one year of orchestra, band, or private instrument instruction is required to participate.

LOCATION: Jump Start Camp 2026 will be held at Pioneer Middle School, 450 Bridge St. Walla Walla.

DATES/TIMES: July 27 - 31 (Monday-Friday)
1:00pm to 4:00pm daily

COST AND COMMITMENT:
Jump Start is FREE, but limited to the first 60 campers. Because each camper is an important part of their ensemble, please be certain that campers can commit to the full week of Orchestra Camp INCLUDING the Friday Showcase.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE:
Please complete your registration by June 1, so that we have time to plan and prepare the repertoire for each ensemble. Anyone attempting to register after June 1 may be considered for enrollment in the camp, but is not guaranteed a spot!

TENTATIVE DAILY SCHEDULE:

Monday-Thursday schedule:

• 1:00-1:50 - First Period
• 2:00-2:50 - Second Period
• 3:00-3:50 - Third Period
• The three periods consist of Rehearsal, Sectionals, and Music Topics Class. The order in which each camper attends these three elements depends on the ensemble in which they are placed.
• Breaks between classes create casual opportunities for campers to socialize, grab a snack or bathroom break, and get to their next class.

Friday Schedule:

• 1:00-2:30 - Dress Rehearsal, all ensembles
• 2:30-3:00 - Doors open to audience members
• 3:00-4:00 - Concert; friends and family welcome! Held in Pioneer Middle School Commons
• 4:00 - Clean Up and Dismissal

QUESTIONS: For general questions, please contact the Walla Walla Symphony office at (509) 529-8020, or email emily@wwsymphony.org.
Mailing address: Walla Walla Symphony, PO Box 92, Walla Walla WA 99362.