2023SummerPrograms_FAQ_EN

For general information on CAMMAC’s summer camp:
CLICK HERE

For information related to promotions, financial assistance, payment, refunds and other inquiries of a financial nature:
CLICK HERE

For inquiries on the musical aspect of coming to CAMMAC this summer:
CLICK HERE

For any additional information, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

By email: communications@cammac.ca

By phone: 819-687-3938 / 1-888-622-8755, ext. 25
Office hours are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where is the Music Centre located? How do I get there?

We are about 112 km (90 minutes) northwest of Montreal and 155km (2 hours) northeast of Ottawa. We are on Highway 327, 30 minutes north of Lachute. Look for Harrington or Lost River on your road map. Check out our map.

If I come to the Music Centre, do I have to take classes?

We strongly encourage you to take at least one musical class or activity. Choral singing, introductory classes for various instruments, active listening, yoga, drawing, dance… there are lots of possibilities! If you accompany a child/teen and if you do not wish to take a class, the chaperone fee will apply.

What other activities are there?

We have a great tennis court. You can also swim, canoe or go for a hike!

Is the site accessible to people with disabilities?

Our main building is fully accessible to people with disabilities. We have four adapted residential rooms and an elevator. If you require an accessible room, please let us know what your needs are so that we can reserve a suitable room and make any necessary preparations. We have several visually impaired participants each summer.

If I come to the Music Centre by myself, will I make friends?

Of course! We can say that many lifelong friendships have started at CAMMAC, some of which have ended in marriage!! You’ll quickly get to know our routines, especially if it is your first visit, and you will find CAMMACers are a very friendly bunch. Use the meal breaks as an opportunity to sit with different participants and get to know people from all over North America and the world!

What does a typical week at CAMMAC look like?

What happens during a week at CAMMAC? What is it like? Here’s a glimpse of the atmosphere you’ll find and the schedule for a typical week that will serve as a guide for all musicians – children, teens or adults, whether you are 4 or 84!

Arriving on Sunday afternoon gives participants time to get settled in whether in a single or shared room or in a tent or other gear for the camping, as well as time to check out the grounds.  There is joy in the air, you feel the excitement, you hear laughter, there are hugs as old friends meet up again … a warm welcome!

At 5 p.m., the children meet their teachers/activity leaders and receive their schedules.  The bell at six o’clock announces dinner in the cafeteria – meanwhile, campers are preparing their own meals at their campsites. Then 7:30, it’s time for the adults to head to the main hall where the teachers will help in making choices for classes and taking registrations. If you have questions, worries, or anxieties about the classes that you want to take during the week – this is the chance to get answers to all your concerns.

And then, the magic moment! All the participants get their scores for the first reading of the major choral piece that will be worked on throughout the week. The harmony of many voices singing together, the joy, the solidarity: this is often when you fall in love with CAMMAC for the first time. Before heading off to bed, there’s the chance to chat with other participants over fruit, cake and cookies – the evening snack. You need to be in good shape for the week!

From Monday to Saturday, you attend classes according to the schedule that you’ve made for yourself. Starting after breakfast, each class is 50 minutes long. Lunch at 1 p.m. is followed by a mandatory siesta or quiet hour – a precious break! The afternoon is devoted to some classes and activities. Take advantage of the time to relax, practice your instrument, go swimming or canoe on the lake.

The schedule for the children runs parallel to the adult’s program: classes in the morning and unstructured fun time in the afternoon.

Evenings are devoted to performances and productions: you can sing, play in the orchestra, dance (on Monday evenings – no experience needed!), and attend concerts given by the teachers – all of whom are excellent musicians. Or you, yourself, can perform in the cabaret!

Saturday is the time when all the week’s work comes to fruition: concerts; piano, singing, and small ensemble recitals. Not to mention the much-anticipated children’s concert! The concerts continue in the evening, and some of the pieces that have been worked on during the week are performed by adults and teens in a celebratory atmosphere. You can feel the pride and joy of being on stage with fellow musicians.

On Sunday morning, it’s with a heavy heart that you pack up your suitcases. A concert featuring one or more renowned guest artists closes off the week, which you try to stretch even a bit more by staying for brunch. But the time for departure has finally arrived – participants leave promising to meet up again the following year!

To find out more about all the things that go on CAMMAC at CAMMAC during the week: CLICK HERE

To download the schedule for a typical day at CAMMAC: CLICK HERE

I’d like to learn more about the children’s program at the Music Centre

Play, have fun, and make music!

The program, designed for children 4½ to 11 years, offers music, arts & crafts, dance, and sports. All children must be accompanied by an adult who will be responsible for their supervision outside program hours (8:30 AM to 1:00 PM). Activities are also planned for kids in the evening.

To download an example of the list of classes available each week: CLICK HERE

I’d like to learn more about the program for teenagers at the Music Centre

Cool, frenzied rhythm – Fun guaranteed

Teens (12 to 17 years old) follow the regular adult program supplemented by a few special courses (arts & crafts, choir, sports). Teens must be accompanied by an adult (parent or designated guardian) participating in the music program.

Do I have to know how to speak French?

No. The Centre is completely bilingual, and everything is said in both languages. Most of the teachers are bilingual. If you speak some French, here’s your opportunity to try it out. If you are learning French, it’s a great way to improve.

What kind of accommodations are available?

Three types of accommodation are available:

  • The Main Lodge offers 40 rooms in a modern building with up-to-date amenities.
    A limited number of rooms have a private bathroom (extra fee).
    To see a plan of the second-floor accommodations in the Main Lodge: CLICK HERE
    To see a plan of the third-floor accommodations in the Main Lodge: CLICK HERE
  • The Lake House is a rustic building with twenty bedrooms. Bathrooms are shared.
    To see a plan of the first floor of the Lake House: CLICK HERE
    To see a plan of the second floor of the Lake House: CLICK HERE
  • Camping is available for tents and small campers in an open, grassy area near the main buildings. Laundry (washer and dryer), showers, bathrooms and refrigerators in this area are reserved for campers. If you plan to bring a camper, please advise us when you make your reservation. No electrical hookups are available.

To see a plan of the CAMMAC grounds and buildings: CLICK HERE

Do I have to share a room?

We have some single rooms available on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Double rooms may also be used for single accommodation, but no discount is given for a larger room used for single occupancy.

Should you wish to find a roommate to share a larger room, please contact Customer Service.

What’s the food like?

The food is healthy and plentiful. It is prepared on-site by our chef and her team. Vegetarian meals are available, for participants who have requested them in advance. We try our best to accommodate participants with food allergies. Please note any allergies, vegetarian requirements as well as any other dietary considerations on your registration form.

Meals are served cafeteria-style, and you can always go back for more! In addition to the meals, a mid-morning coffee break and snack is provided, as well as a snack after the evening concert. Please note that the buffet-style service is no longer available, due to new government regulations regarding food service.

Does the Centre have a liquor licence?

Yes, the Centre has a liquor licence, and any alcohol consumed in the public spaces (concert hall, dining room, reception area, verandas) must be purchased on site. The camp site is exempt from this restriction.

Shuttle service is available from Montreal and from Dorval airport on Sundays throughout the summer.

Please note that reservations must be made in advance and that places are limited.

Ride-sharing may also be available.

For details, including shuttle pricing: CLICK HERE

Is it possible to spend one or two nights at the Music Centre during CAMMAC activities?

Visitors are welcome for one or two nights if rooms are still available once the week begins. Rooms can be reserved only as of Sunday evening after check-in is complete, for the current week. To find out about rates and availabilities, please enquire at reception on Sunday evening at 7 p.m. or contact Customer service by phone or by email:

By email: communications@cammac.ca
By phone: 819-687-3938 / 1-888-622-8755 – extension 25

Office hours are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Where is the Music Centre located? How do I get there?

We are about 112 km (90 minutes) northwest of Montreal and 155km (2 hours) northeast of Ottawa. We are on Highway 327, 30 minutes north of Lachute. Look for Harrington or Lost River on your road map. Check out our map.

If I come to the Music Centre, do I have to take classes?

We strongly encourage you to take at least one musical class or activity. Choral singing, introductory classes for various instruments, active listening, yoga, drawing, dance… there are lots of possibilities! If you accompany a child/teen and if you do not wish to take a class, the chaperone fee will apply.

What other activities are there?

We have a great tennis court. You can also swim, canoe or go for a hike!

Is the site accessible to people with disabilities?

Our main building is fully accessible to people with disabilities. We have four adapted residential rooms and an elevator. If you require an accessible room, please let us know what your needs are so that we can reserve a suitable room and make any necessary preparations. We have several visually impaired participants each summer.

If I come to the Music Centre by myself, will I make friends?

Of course! We can say that many lifelong friendships have started at CAMMAC, some of which have ended in marriage!! You’ll quickly get to know our routines, especially if it is your first visit, and you will find CAMMACers are a very friendly bunch. Use the meal breaks as an opportunity to sit with different participants and get to know people from all over North America and the world!

What does a typical week at CAMMAC look like?

What happens during a week at CAMMAC? What is it like? Here’s a glimpse of the atmosphere you’ll find and the schedule for a typical week that will serve as a guide for all musicians – children, teens or adults, whether you are 4 or 84!

Arriving on Sunday afternoon gives participants time to get settled in whether in a single or shared room or in a tent or other gear for the camping, as well as time to check out the grounds.  There is joy in the air, you feel the excitement, you hear laughter, there are hugs as old friends meet up again … a warm welcome!

At 5 p.m., the children meet their teachers/activity leaders and receive their schedules.  The bell at six o’clock announces dinner in the cafeteria – meanwhile, campers are preparing their own meals at their campsites. Then 7:30, it’s time for the adults to head to the main hall where the teachers will help in making choices for classes and taking registrations. If you have questions, worries, or anxieties about the classes that you want to take during the week – this is the chance to get answers to all your concerns.

And then, the magic moment! All the participants get their scores for the first reading of the major choral piece that will be worked on throughout the week. The harmony of many voices singing together, the joy, the solidarity: this is often when you fall in love with CAMMAC for the first time. Before heading off to bed, there’s the chance to chat with other participants over fruit, cake and cookies – the evening snack. You need to be in good shape for the week!

From Monday to Saturday, you attend classes according to the schedule that you’ve made for yourself. Starting after breakfast, each class is 50 minutes long. Lunch at 1 p.m. is followed by a mandatory siesta or quiet hour – a precious break! The afternoon is devoted to some classes and activities. Take advantage of the time to relax, practice your instrument, go swimming or canoe on the lake.

The schedule for the children runs parallel to the adult’s program: classes in the morning and unstructured fun time in the afternoon.

Evenings are devoted to performances and productions: you can sing, play in the orchestra, dance (on Monday evenings – no experience needed!), and attend concerts given by the teachers – all of whom are excellent musicians. Or you, yourself, can perform in the cabaret!

Saturday is the time when all the week’s work comes to fruition: concerts; piano, singing, and small ensemble recitals. Not to mention the much-anticipated children’s concert! The concerts continue in the evening, and some of the pieces that have been worked on during the week are performed by adults and teens in a celebratory atmosphere. You can feel the pride and joy of being on stage with fellow musicians.

On Sunday morning, it’s with a heavy heart that you pack up your suitcases. A concert featuring one or more renowned guest artists closes off the week, which you try to stretch even a bit more by staying for brunch. But the time for departure has finally arrived – participants leave promising to meet up again the following year!

To find out more about all the things that go on CAMMAC at CAMMAC during the week: CLICK HERE

To download the schedule for a typical day at CAMMAC: CLICK HERE

I’d like to learn more about the children’s program at the Music Centre

Play, have fun, and make music!

The program, designed for children 4½ to 11 years, offers music, arts & crafts, dance, and sports. All children must be accompanied by an adult who will be responsible for their supervision outside program hours (8:30 AM to 1:00 PM). Activities are also planned for kids in the evening.

To download an example of the list of classes available each week: CLICK HERE

I’d like to learn more about the program for teenagers at the Music Centre

Cool, frenzied rhythm – Fun guaranteed

Teens (12 to 17 years old) follow the regular adult program supplemented by a few special courses (arts & crafts, choir, sports). Teens must be accompanied by an adult (parent or designated guardian) participating in the music program.

Do I have to know how to speak French?

No. The Centre is completely bilingual, and everything is said in both languages. Most of the teachers are bilingual. If you speak some French, here’s your opportunity to try it out. If you are learning French, it’s a great way to improve.

What kind of accommodations are available?

Three types of accommodation are available:

  • The Main Lodge offers 40 rooms in a modern building with up-to-date amenities.
    A limited number of rooms have a private bathroom (extra fee).
    To see a plan of the second-floor accommodations in the Main Lodge: CLICK HERE
    To see a plan of the third-floor accommodations in the Main Lodge: CLICK HERE
  • The Lake House is a rustic building with twenty bedrooms. Bathrooms are shared.
    To see a plan of the first floor of the Lake House: CLICK HERE
    To see a plan of the second floor of the Lake House: CLICK HERE
  • Camping is available for tents and small campers in an open, grassy area near the main buildings. Laundry (washer and dryer), showers, bathrooms and refrigerators in this area are reserved for campers. If you plan to bring a camper, please advise us when you make your reservation. No electrical hookups are available.

To see a plan of the CAMMAC grounds and buildings: CLICK HERE

Do I have to share a room?

We have some single rooms available on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Double rooms may also be used for single accommodation, but no discount is given for a larger room used for single occupancy.

Should you wish to find a roommate to share a larger room, please contact Customer Service.

What’s the food like?

The food is healthy and plentiful. It is prepared on-site by our chef and her team. Vegetarian meals are available, for participants who have requested them in advance. We try our best to accommodate participants with food allergies. Please note any allergies, vegetarian requirements as well as any other dietary considerations on your registration form.

Meals are served cafeteria-style, and you can always go back for more! In addition to the meals, a mid-morning coffee break and snack is provided, as well as a snack after the evening concert. Please note that the buffet-style service is no longer available, due to new government regulations regarding food service.

Does the Centre have a liquor licence?

Yes, the Centre has a liquor licence, and any alcohol consumed in the public spaces (concert hall, dining room, reception area, verandas) must be purchased on site. The camp site is exempt from this restriction.

Shuttle service is available from Montreal and from Dorval airport on Sundays throughout the summer.

Please note that reservations must be made in advance and that places are limited.

Ride-sharing may also be available.

For details, including shuttle pricing: CLICK HERE

Is it possible to spend one or two nights at the Music Centre during CAMMAC activities?

Visitors are welcome for one or two nights if rooms are still available once the week begins. Rooms can be reserved only as of Sunday evening after check-in is complete, for the current week. To find out about rates and availabilities, please enquire at reception on Sunday evening at 7 p.m. or contact Customer service by phone or by email:

By email: communications@cammac.ca
By phone: 819-687-3938 / 1-888-622-8755 – extension 25

Office hours are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Is financial assistance available?

Yes. Bursaries are available (summer program only). The CAMMAC spirit also means caring and accessibility! These are the values that lead CAMMAC to offer several bursaries each year to allow less fortunate musicians (no age limit) to participate in the summer programs. We invite persons who need financial assistance to complete the application form and send it to us by June 2, 2023. An independent committee will evaluate the bursary requests anonymously and you will receive an answer by July 17, 2023. To complete a bursary application: CLICK HERE

Can I buy meal tickets for the cafeteria?

TIckets for individual meals are available at the Tuck Shop.

To consult the current rates for individual meal tickets: CLICK HERE

What does the meal plan include?

Meal plan includes meals and snacks starting with Sunday supper through breakfast on the following Sunday.

What does the camping package include?

Fees include a camping site, and snacks. The camping area has the following equipment: showers, tables, refrigerators, and a washer and dryer. Campers and their guests can purchase meal tickets for the cafeteria.

Do I have to pay in full to confirm my registration?

When you make your reservation by paying a 50% deposit, with the balance due upon your arrival.

To avoid waiting in line at reception during check in, pay your balance in full when you make your reservation or at least 48 hours before your arrival.

What is your cancellation policy?

For the current cancellation policy, please refer to the policy on our online reservation page at the time of your registration.

Membership fees are not refundable.

Rates for Summer 2023

To consult the rates, terms, conditions and available discounts for Summer 2023: CLICK HERE

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Is financial assistance available?

Yes. Bursaries are available (summer program only). The CAMMAC spirit also means caring and accessibility! These are the values that lead CAMMAC to offer several bursaries each year to allow less fortunate musicians (no age limit) to participate in the summer programs. We invite persons who need financial assistance to complete the application form and send it to us by June 2, 2023. An independent committee will evaluate the bursary requests anonymously and you will receive an answer by July 17, 2023. To complete a bursary application: CLICK HERE

Can I buy meal tickets for the cafeteria?

TIckets for individual meals are available at the Tuck Shop.

To consult the current rates for individual meal tickets: CLICK HERE

What does the meal plan include?

Meal plan includes meals and snacks starting with Sunday supper through breakfast on the following Sunday.

What does the camping package include?

Fees include a camping site, and snacks. The camping area has the following equipment: showers, tables, refrigerators, and a washer and dryer. Campers and their guests can purchase meal tickets for the cafeteria.

Do I have to pay in full to confirm my registration?

When you make your reservation by paying a 50% deposit, with the balance due upon your arrival.

To avoid waiting in line at reception during check in, pay your balance in full when you make your reservation or at least 48 hours before your arrival.

What is your cancellation policy?

For the current cancellation policy, please refer to the policy on our online reservation page at the time of your registration.

Membership fees are not refundable.

Rates for Summer 2023

To consult the rates, terms, conditions and available discounts for Summer 2023: CLICK HERE

I’m a beginner. Will I fit in?

Absolutely. There are several courses each week available to beginners. Besides courses open to everyone (dance, percussion, Orff, yoga, drawing) and choir which involves all participants, recorder classes are offered every week for people who have never played. Check the list of courses available each week and choose the courses specifically marked for beginners.

Are there many concerts during the week?

Yes. A lot of participants say that a week at the Music Centre is worthwhile, just for the chance to hear some great concerts! Every day starts with a mini five-minute concert. Each evening, from Tuesday to Friday, you can attend a concert given by faculty members. Saturday evening, the participants’ concert wraps up the weeks, and includes the major choral work rehearsed during the week.

On Sunday, a concert with guest artists is held as part of the Musical Sundays Festival, followed by a brunch. It’s a great way to begin and end your stay at Lake MacDonald!

Will I have the opportunity to play lots of chamber music?

If you register in the Chamber Music program (and if you meet the level requirements), you are guaranteed at least one coached session per day. Sometimes, depending on registrations, you may get a second coached group. Many participants also form ad hoc groups for afternoon fun. Also available for more advanced players are various ensembles and the orchestra (check the program).

What happens if I’m not comfortable with the group I’ve been placed in?

Talk to the music director or assistant immediately. Don’t hesitate. You are here to enjoy yourself. If something is too hard (or too easy), we’ll try our best to make adjustments after the first day.

I want to bring my children or grandchildren, but they don’t play any instrument. Will they have anything to do?

Yes. Absolutely. Children who don’t play an instrument are introduced to music through choral singing, movement and other exciting activities. The children’s program also includes physical activities, some sports, swimming and arts and crafts. One of the highlights of the week is the children’s concert on Saturday afternoon!

Is there a program planned for teenagers?

Teenagers always form a dynamic group unto themselves! They follow the same program as the adults, with a choral class specifically for the teens.

Do I have to bring my own instrument?

Participants must bring their own instruments. Instruments available for rental or sale at CAMMAC are as follows:

  • Yamaha plastic soprano and alto recorders can be purchased at the Tuck Shop. Various recorders are available for rental from the Music Library at a cost of $10 per week.
  • Viola da gambas can be rented for Week 2. When you preregister for the viola da gamba class, you will also be able to reserve an instrument rental. To consult the rental rates: CLICK HERE
  • Celtic harps can be rented for Week 4 from Sharlene Wallace. When you preregister for the harp class, you will also be able to reserve an instrument rental. To consult the rental rates: CLICK HERE
  • CAMMAC can provide some ukuleles. Please let us know if you would like to borrow one: communications@cammac.ca

Class list for Summer 2023:

To consult the list of classes available for the 2023 Summer Retreats: CLICK HERE

INFORMATION ON THE MUSICAL ASPECT OF COMING TO CAMMAC

I’m a beginner. Will I fit in?

Absolutely. There are several courses each week available to beginners. Besides courses open to everyone (dance, percussion, Orff, yoga, drawing) and choir which involves all participants, recorder classes are offered every week for people who have never played. Check the list of courses available each week and choose the courses specifically marked for beginners.

Are there many concerts during the week?

Yes. A lot of participants say that a week at the Music Centre is worthwhile, just for the chance to hear some great concerts! Every day starts with a mini five-minute concert. Each evening, from Tuesday to Friday, you can attend a concert given by faculty members. Saturday evening, the participants’ concert wraps up the weeks, and includes the major choral work rehearsed during the week.

On Sunday, a concert with guest artists is held as part of the Musical Sundays Festival, followed by a brunch. It’s a great way to begin and end your stay at Lake MacDonald!

Will I have the opportunity to play lots of chamber music?

If you register in the Chamber Music program (and if you meet the level requirements), you are guaranteed at least one coached session per day. Sometimes, depending on registrations, you may get a second coached group. Many participants also form ad hoc groups for afternoon fun. Also available for more advanced players are various ensembles and the orchestra (check the program).

What happens if I’m not comfortable with the group I’ve been placed in?

Talk to the music director or assistant immediately. Don’t hesitate. You are here to enjoy yourself. If something is too hard (or too easy), we’ll try our best to make adjustments after the first day.

I want to bring my children or grandchildren, but they don’t play any instrument. Will they have anything to do?

Yes. Absolutely. Children who don’t play an instrument are introduced to music through choral singing, movement and other exciting activities. The children’s program also includes physical activities, some sports, swimming and arts and crafts. One of the highlights of the week is the children’s concert on Saturday afternoon!

Is there a program planned for teenagers?

Teenagers always form a dynamic group unto themselves! They follow the same program as the adults, with a choral class specifically for the teens.

Do I have to bring my own instrument?

Participants must bring their own instruments. Instruments available for rental or sale at CAMMAC are as follows:

  • Yamaha plastic soprano and alto recorders can be purchased at the Tuck Shop. Various recorders are available for rental from the Music Library at a cost of $10 per week.
  • Viola da gambas can be rented for Week 2. When you preregister for the viola da gamba class, you will also be able to reserve an instrument rental. To consult the rental rates: CLICK HERE
  • Celtic harps can be rented for Week 4 from Sharlene Wallace. When you preregister for the harp class, you will also be able to reserve an instrument rental. To consult the rental rates: CLICK HERE
  • CAMMAC can provide some ukuleles. Please let us know if you would like to borrow one: communications@cammac.ca

Class list for Summer 2023:

To consult the list of classes available for the 2023 Summer Retreats: CLICK HERE