In 2015 and 2016 I was fortunately able to attend Cellospeak. This was an organization dedicated to adult cello players of all levels, from beginners to experts. The faculty was stellar, and the week-long workshop was filled with valuable sessions, one-on-one lessons, and amazing faculty and student recitals in the evenings.
In 2015 my wife and I flew there, and I rented a cello for the week. In 2016 I drove myself there, a two-day drive covering 1300 miles each way. Due to these logistical issues I never returned. Sadly Cellospeak did not survive the pandemic.
At the same time I learned about Cellospak and attended, I was aware of another adult focused string camp called SCOR. They offered 3-day workshops a different locations around the country. At least two of the locations were within in a day’s drive. For various reasons I never signed up attend.
I have been thinking about doing another adult music camp and so I did a search for SCOR. They did survive the pandemic, but with a slightly altered approach. They are located only in the Finger Lakes region of New York, and they offer a variety of workshops, include ensemble, baroque, and cello-only.
My excitement at the idea of three days of cello with other adults was unfortunately tempered by the discovery of their “staying healthy” policy. In a nutshell they prohibit the wearing of masks. They also have no vaccination requirement. For me the idea that they wouldn’t let me wear a mask–even if I wanted to–is enough to eliminate them from consideration.
It was really disappointing as there are very few adults only music camps. I live in a small town in Kansas. Traveling to music workshops or camps is the only way I get to see and play with other adults who are amateur musicians.