Summer Music Programs

Notes From The Studio | August 13, 2009

2009-08-13T11:17:00.000-07:00

Hi fellow rockers! I'm at the recording studio right now and my band just laid down some sweet tracks! It was the best experience ever and I'm learning a TON about recording and playing music!

- Alyssa Fairman

I was in Alyssa's band and we recorded "Barracuda", "I Love Rock And Roll", and "(Witch)", but we had to change a few "key lyrics" in "(Witch)". It came out SUPER COOL and I can't wait to hear it!

- Anna Comyns

Camper Blogs | August 12, 2009

2009-08-12T12:05:00.000-07:00

I am here...at camp...playing music...playing with friends. I've learned a lot at camp, different kinds of artists and songs, how many licks it takes to get the the center of a Tootsie Pop, and that people don't like it when you lick their arms. If you're reading this, come to the camp. It's totally awesome.

- Grant Steinhauer

Hey from Summer Music Programs Week 9! We are playing "Benny And The Jets", "Something About Us", and "Immigrant Song". I'm really excited to get back into the studio tomorrow and to play on Friday!

- Noah Dunn

Camper Blogs | August 11, 2009

2009-08-11T11:29:00.000-07:00

I've been going to this camp for 5 years now, and I have to say that this is the best music camp out there. This place lets you pick your OWN music and play it how YOU want to play it. Come join us in our world domination!

- Jake McDonald

This is my first time at this camp and it's great! My band learned four different songs together and performed them great. This camp is so gnarly!

- J.D. Costantini

This camp is so awesome I can't describe it! I am at a loss for words when confronted with this task of blogging!
- Ty Wolf

Camper Blogs | August 10, 2009

2009-08-10T11:29:00.000-07:00

Hey, this is my second week at Summer Music Programs this year! I love it! We are playing "All Along The Watchtower" by Jimi Hendrix and "Dragula" by Rob Zombie so far. I am excited for the studio and concert!

- Brody Brush

Notes From The Studio | August 6, 2009

2009-08-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

This camp is so cool. You get so much to do with your band. You record, practice and perform the songs your band chooses. I can't wait till next year.

- Quenten Petit

My weeks at Summer Music Programs have been some of the best times of my life. Here, I get sing, record, and perform great songs every week. Without Summer Music Programs, I would never have the chance to play music with other talented musicians. Thanks, Summer Music Programs! :)

- Dianna Dragonetti

Camper Blogs | August 5, 2009

2009-08-05T11:32:00.000-07:00

My name is Gilad and I play the guitar. For this week my band and I are playing 3 jazz songs, including "Enter Sandman" by Metallica, except making it more of a swing song. So far it is awesome and I cannot wait to go to the studio tomorrow and LOVE Park the day after.

- Gilad Doron

My name is Jackson and I play the drums. My band is playing three songs this week they are "Polly" by Nirvana, "Stone Cold Bush" by RHCP and "Santeria" by Sublime. We have almost mastered all the songs we have chosen. We are going to the studio Friday and we also have a concert on Friday. It will be really nuts and insane but I will have fun and that is all that matters.
- Jackson Bistrong

Camper Blogs | August 4, 2009

2009-08-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

The big news this week is that due to some unforeseen (and still, as of yet mostly unexplained) circumstances, Summer Music Programs campers and staff arrived the Harcum on Monday morning to find no power in our trusty digs, Klein Hall. We have persevered, however, and are back in action (better than ever?)! A recap with photos of the Great Power Outage Of '09 is on its way, but in the meantime, here are some blogs!

Hey, my name is Pete. I play the guitar. I'm loving it and it's my first year! I like to spend my time by playing guitar and thinking of new licks! Peace!

- Peter Gural

Today, we had a new addition to our band, a guitarist named Peter, and so far hes been awesome. We have almost all of our songs down and we're way ahead of schedule. The power outage yesterday kinda sucked, but now, Bar Mitzvah Breakdown is rocking out on their new album "Who Ate The Rabbi?"!!! Peace, luvya's!!!

- Dan Raps-Huffman

Hey, my name is Eric. Nice to meet you! I play the drums and, yeah, that's it.

- Eric Kanchuger

Camper Blogs | July 31, 2009

2009-07-31T12:36:00.000-07:00

We're just minutes away from the kickoff of this week's overnight program concert here at Harcum College, but even so, two of the overnighters stopped by the Graphics Room (nicknamed by Evan the "Grrr" room) to give us today's blogs. How sweet of them!

Hi, my name is Ryan, and I'm writing this blog simply to express my utter joy with signing up with Summer Music Programs. We play music all day and relax all night, which is basically a dream come truuue. I'll definitely try to come back next summer!!! xoxo

-Ryan Bondell

Hi, my name is Evan. I have been at Summer Music Programs for 5 years and I can't say enough good things about this camp. This is the place where I can be free and express myself musically and I love it. Every week, we are put into groups depending on our skill and style of music. As a band, you decide what you want to play then you record it at a studio then preform. I love Summer Music Programs and I can't wait till next summer. <3

-Evan Guinessy

The day program's concert, on the other hand, is over, and was a rousing success (naturally). Some shots of the wild moments have been added to our Flickr page, but here are some highlights:

In closing, we'd encourage you to check out some of the tracks from this week's CDs, which have just now been posted, on our MySpace page (and don't forget the sweet artwork!). Until then, we'll see you next week! Oh yeah, follow us on Twitter! All the cool kids are doing it!

Camper Blogs | July 29, 2009

2009-07-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

This is my first time writing on the blog, and it's AWESOME!!! My band is getting along great, even after having to absorb another person because his fellow bandmate fell ill and had to leave. We have a wide selection of songs, including Motley Crüe, Michael Jackson and Van Halen/The Kinks. We are so excited to go to the recording studio and play at the concert. I'm so excited to be here, and our band is painting our nails for the concert. GO A7X!

Lovey Dovey,
Raps

This is my 3rd year and my first time on the blog. For my 3rd time, I am still loving this camp and this blog will help me say that I love how this is used and how I have so much fun. I come back for more and more but I would like to do metal and some stuff like that but we are doing some stuff different but I loved it even though it's not what I expected. But through ups and downs, I say only one thing: "I LOVE SUMMER MUSIC PROGRAMS!!!"

- Zack Waldman

Camper Blogs | July 28, 2009

2009-07-28T11:27:00.000-07:00

I'm Evan Rieger and I am currently in week 7 of Summer Music Programs. I am in band with Zach Khanlian and Connor Storms. Our band name is Flännel Chännel and we are going to be recording three songs. These songs are "Mother Mary" by Foxboro Hot Tubs, "Nomads' Revolt" by Mischief Brew and "Please Forgive Me" by Westbound Train. At the concert, we will also play "Lump" by the Presidents of the United States of America. Summer Music Programs is fantastic. I'm really excited for the studio because it is generally an amazing experience.

- Evan Rieger

Hello! My name is Ryan Citrino and this is week 7 of Summer Music Programs. I was once in the band Full Metal Jacket, but now I'm in the band Plagiarism. We are doing "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson, "Live Wire" by Motley Crüe, and a cover of "You Really Got Me" by Van Halen. It's great here. I am having a blast!

-Ryan Citrino

Camper Blogs | July 27, 2009

2009-07-27T11:49:00.000-07:00

Hello Chums! I am back again at Summer Music Programs. Week Seven. Day One and we already have most of our songs done. We're doing "Nomads' Revolt" by Mischief Brew, "Mother Mary" by Foxboro Hot Tubs, "Lump" by The Presidents of the United States of America, and "Please Forgive Me" by Westbound Train.

Love,
ZaCh KhAnLiAn

Hi. How are you? Glad to hear it. This is my fourth year at Summer Music Programs, and it is great. We decided on all of our songs today and they are sounding wonderful. Now I am doing graphics for the CD. Yeah dude!

Love,
Connor Holford Storms

Camper Blogs | July 23, 2009

2009-07-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

This camp is so much fun! You have no idea how beneficial it has been to me as a musician. The best part is that it never gets old! You would think that after a week or two you would feel as though you were just repeating the same old thing, but it is always interesting and a lot of fun. I can't wait to do this camp again.
- Jack McCord

This camp was awesome to the max!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am absolutely addicted. This place is fun with all the musical experience!
- Grant McCord

Camper Blogs | July 22, 2009

2009-07-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

Hey, I like Summer Music Programs. This is my 3rd year, and it's awesome. We played "All The Small Things", "Love Song", and "Eat It". My favorite thing about SMP is going to the studio and recording. The show on Friday is going to be EPIC!

- Josh Wiley (is awesome)

Summer Music Programs is an awesome camp. I learn so much and have tons of fun! The overall experience is incredible. I am especially excited to go to MorningStar Studios, which is the recording studio we go to to record our songs that we've learned. The Friday night show is going to be a great show!

- Dan Watson

Camper Blogs | July 21, 2009

2009-07-21T11:50:00.000-07:00

This camp is radtastic, dude! My band is playing "Give It All" by Rise Against and "The Kid's Aren't Alright" by The Offspring and two other songs. Can't wait for the studio!
- Ethan Brennan

Summer Music Programs is awesome! This is my first week, and so far, it's pretty good. Our band is playing "Kryptonite" by 3 Doors Down and "Welcome To Paradise" by Green Day. I can't wait to go to the studio and record!

- Jack Cullen

Camper Blogs | July 20, 2009

2009-07-20T11:57:00.000-07:00

Summer Music Programs is an awesome camp. I look forward to going to it every year. Last night we decided that we were going to play "Fade To Black" by Metallica. It's a tough song to learn, but it will sound amazing once we practice it more and get it really good. I can't wait to go to the studio and record all our songs, because that's always a lot of fun.

- Mike Saint-Antoine

SMP is the best camp to go to over the summer for any aspiring musician. You practice all day, the only activity is music. You get a lot better this way, and you get to play the music you like while getting better. We are playing cool classic rock songs like "Drive My Car" by The Beatles. Plus, you get the amazing experience of recording in a professional studio, and playing a live concert. I can't wait! This camp is always a lot of fun.

- David Sperber

Camper Blogs | July 15, 2009

2009-07-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

Summer Music Programs is such an amazing camp! I've been playing classical piano for about 9 years and SMP has given me the opportunity to apply my already existing knowledge to rock music by playing the keyboard. The counselors are wonderful and have helped me expand my knowledge of music and the way music is written overall. I've been coming here for about 3 years and I look forward to my weeks here every summer.

-Lauren Lewis

This year is my first year with Summer Music Programs, and so far it has been awesome! Despite the fact that I've been playing guitar for six years, I had never had the chance to play with a band before, and it makes such a difference. Not only do we have a great time, but we learn tons about music, rhythm and theory and gain experience regarding music in a group setting. A great camp!

-Deborah Levy

Camper Blogs | July 14, 2009

2009-07-14T11:49:00.000-07:00

The overnight program has begun! We have our first blogs from the overnighters, all are SMP veterans, so let's see what they have to say...

We have been practicing for 2 days now, it has been fun. We have also worked on our album artwork and a video! In two days, we are going to MorningStar Studios. I'm looking forward to playing keys and overdubbing there.
- Alex Kane

Hey, I'm Mat (with one T) and I play guitar. Our songs are pretty fun ('cept the German one LOL). Our band is like "Married In Vegas" or something and the album is "Divorced In Utah". I find that slightly comedic so I guess it's OK. Well, I'll check in later. TTYL XD.
- Mat Glanzberg

What's up, Jake here (drums). I'm super psyched to play "Misty Mountain Hop" and record it at MorningStar. This is the first year I've been really solid on all three tunes and I get to sing one so I'm really pumped for this year. If this house is rocken don't come a'knocken, just walk right in (SRV). Peace out!
- Jake Westphal

We've also posted a bunch of new photos on our Flickr page, check 'em out -- new ones added every single day!

Camper Blogs | July 8, 2009

2009-07-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

Summer Music Programs is an extraordinary and unique camp. Every instructor is experienced in every instrument used. It is probably the single greatest camp in the country. I would recommend it to every 11-17 year old with moderate to experienced musical talent.
- Peter Gill

For my first week at Summer Music Programs, I felt welcome by everyone that was working there. The instructors have helped me further my musical abilities by working with me often and showing me new things that I never thought I could do. This has been a great time and I hope to come back next year.
- Sean Gibbons

Camper Blogs | July 7, 2009

2009-07-07T11:06:00.000-07:00

Camp is awesome i want to get a job here someday, they have top of the line instructors. The food is AMAZING, the people are great and my band members like all the same music as me.

-Wes Wright

This camp is more awesome than the awesome convention. I hope that one day I will be a part of the awesomely amazing staff. The videos that they film and edit are also some of the best I've ever seen. The food is amazing.

-Edward McGovern

Camper Blogs | July 6, 2009

2009-07-06T11:14:00.000-07:00

Hey, this is my first time ever at Summer Music Programs. The program is really good and the instructors are extremely helpful and nice. I recommend going to here for a great experience and to increase your musical ability.
- Peter Giuffre

Yo, this is my second year at Summer Music Programs. It's pretty cool. You could say it pretty much rules! I like the counselors and they are helpful.
- Sam Beckley

Notes From The Studio | July 2, 2009

2009-07-02T10:46:00.000-07:00

Today, our band recorded four songs at Range Records -- "Helter Skelter" by The Beatles, "I Want You to Want Me" by Cheap Trick, a song by A Day To Remember, and "Beat It", in honor of Michael Jackson. Everything went pretty smooth, as far as I know. The songs sounded solid and in tune, probably because we've been working on them all week. It's really great to have this opportunity. I wouldn't have been able to record or practice songs with a live band without this camp. Thanks, Summer Music Programs! :)

- Dianna Dragonetti

Today my band recorded three songs today at Range: "How Many More Times", "Smooth Criminal", and "Willie The Pimp". SMP is pretty cool this year and the band I'm in for this week is definitely a band to remember. I'm really lookin' forward to the rest of the summer!

- Dan Edwards

Camper Blogs | July 1, 2009

2009-07-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, it's week three, and we have an epic set list. I'm having so much fun!!!!!!!!!

- Mike :)

Hey I'm in Mike's band and he's right, we have an EPIC set list. Week 3 has been amazing so far and I can't wait for the studio and concert.

- Nick

P.S. Tim and Julie should get a raise!

Hey people, I'm in the band with the two guys above me and I think I should emphasize the fact that we have an epic set list!!! This is an awesome week and we're all having a lot of fun.

-- Molly :)

Camper Blogs | June 30, 2009

2009-06-30T11:27:00.000-07:00

Today we added tons of photos from the first two weeks to our Flickr page, be sure to head over there and check 'em out. Right after THIS...

Camp is amazing! My singer almost blew out his voice, and I love the food here!
- Tommy Svenson

Camp is awesome, I like playing my guitar with my friends. We like to rock out in our room. We are playing "Pork And Beans", "21 Guns" and "1985".
- Pat Carr

This camp is awesome, this is really fun we rock extremely hard! Can't wait till the concert...
- Stephen Viola

Camper Blogs | June 29, 2009

2009-06-29T09:22:00.000-07:00

Week 3 is in effect, and as predicted, with the sad passing of Michael Jackson last week, no less than THREE bands are in the midst of preparing their tributes to him, to be recorded this Thursday at Range Records -- and performed at LOVE Park on Friday afternoon! So be on the lookout for that, but in the meantime, check out today's blogs! Some veterans checking in today...

Hey, I'm at Summer Music Programs and I am having a great time. I like to play the music that we play, therefore playing the music that we play is playful. It is also fun sometimes.
- Spencer "Spludge" Cohen

The concert was very fun, we played in front of a lot of people. It was really cool. I am back again this week, mainly because the food is good.

Love,
Alex Buchholz

The concert was...interesting. There were "dancing" people. It was great, because we played music. At a music camp. WOW!
- Ty "Pokie Wolfie Flops Esquire The 3rd" Wolf

And, hey, if you haven't already, check out the new videos from Week 2, just posted on our website!

Week 2's Concert At Love Park!

2009-06-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

As you can see from the photos, Week 2's concert at Love Park was a huge success, many thanks to all the bands and all of the adoring public who turned out for our big show! These blog pgotos are just a sampling, as we have added loads of photos from the day to the Summer Music Programs Flickr page, so why don't you head over and check it out? Some videos are coming too, very shortly!

Also, be sure to check out the Summer Music Programs MySpace page to hear some tracks from the week's CDs that were just posted -- we'll be "leaking" at least 5 new tracks every Thursday evening as a preview to get you excited for our Friday concerts at Love Park and Harcum College. We just put some new ones up -- go get jiggy with it!

Finally, are you following us on Twitter yet? What are you waiting for?!

Notes From The Studio | June 25, 2009

2009-06-25T10:28:00.000-07:00

Today at Summer Music Programs, the band and I recorded at the recording studio and we played our four song set consisting of "Gettin' Jiggy With It" by Will Smith and "American Idiot" by Green Day and it was really fun.
- Andew A.

Today we went to a recording studio, and recorded the four songs we have been practicing. The band practiced so much I got three blisters (!), but they'll go away soon (plus it was definitely worth it). Summer Music Programs is an extremely fun way to spend your summer!
- Jonathan G.

Camper Blogs | June 24, 2009

2009-06-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

It's crunch time -- the day before the studio session at Range Records, and so we have only the briefest of moments to check in, so let's get right to it!

Hey, I'm at Summer Music Programs and I'm having a lot of fun, today we rehearsed all of our songs, tomorrow we are going to the studio, it should be really fun, on Friday we are playing our songs in Love Park, it will be awesome.

- Alex Buchholz

Summer Music Programs has been awesome! My band has been doing songs by Billy Idol, The Misfits, Jimmy Eat World, and AC/DC. Tomorrow we are going to the studio to record our songs. On Friday we are performing our songs at LOVE park.

- Dr. Nick Madson

Official blogs live and direct from the studio are on their way tomorrow afternoon, so stay tuned...

Camper Blogs | June 23, 2009

2009-06-23T09:14:00.000-07:00

After an amazing first week, week two is in now underway and in full effect, and we already have a couple of blogs direct from our world famous musicians! Check them out below:

The songs being played here are amazing! We have "My Generation", "American Idiot", "Man In The Box", and a lot more. It's pretty awesome rockin' out in a band.
- Steve Bruno

Week 2 is going great! So many great musicians and counselors. So far we have learned to play three songs: "Mmmbop!", "Video Killed the Radio Star", and "I Want You to Want Me. Can't wait for studio day!"
- Meggie & Betsy McCarthy Alfano

We've also posted some videos from the first week, be sure to check them out here, and if you haven't already, start following us on Twitter to get all the latest dirt from Summer Music Programs! We'll be back tomorrow with more camper blogs and photos from our rehearsals!

Notes From The Studio | June 18, 2009

2009-06-18T10:17:00.000-07:00

Today we're here with an exclusive look behind the scenes of the production of our weekly CD -- breaking testimony (livebloggin'!) direct from the studio to your eyes! And, tomorrow, to your ears! For now, check out these two blog entries and some brand new photos from the session:

Hey! We just finished up in the studio and it was pretty fun! We had to re-record some of the songs, but overall we were pretty good if I do say so myself. Haha.

- Molly Levinthal

What up everyone!? I was at a recording studio with my friends Molly, Julie, John, and Ryan. We played amazing songs. And had a lot of FUN!

- Christina Brennan

Camper Blogs | June 17, 2009

2009-06-17T10:37:00.000-07:00

It's the day before our first weekers hit the studio, so there's lots of work to be done here (in between foosball games, of course), but we still managed to find the time to check in with some of the band members...check it!

Today we just went over some of the songs we picked to play. We have a weird selection sort of, from The Strokes, to Black Sabbath, to Zeppelin and Blur, but it's still pretty awesome and fun.

-Dylan

I'm having a great time at Summer Music Programs. I enjoy all the songs that we play, and we choose a variety of different songs that is interesting. I have been introduced to new songs that I like while playing guitar here, and I have definitely improved my guitar playing skills here.

-Steven

Camper Blogs | June 16, 2009

2009-06-16T07:29:00.000-07:00

Our first official check-in of the year, here's some blogging from our actual campers of week one! Here's what's up with them --

It's a really fun and interesting experience. We get together in groups and agree on songs to perform. It's my first time being here and only on the second day and I want to come back next year.
- Jessica Swift

This music program is awesome! I love to play music with other people. Playing on stage makes me feel famous and that is a cool feeling. I love the recording studio, too, because I try to make my music sound great and hear it again. Because of the fun experience I will keep coming back to have more fun. Rock on!
- Kurt Zaccaria

Ummm...I think that Summer Music Program is a really fun experience for experienced and less experienced musicians. I've had a lot of fun both years that I have been here and I hope to stay for a long time. The Summer Music Programs; come spend your money here...
-Adam Weiss

This place is absolutely awesome. Cool staff, good songs, fun all around.
-Grant McCord

June 19, 2007

2007-06-19T12:09:00.000-07:00

Today's blog, our first of the summer, comes all the way from room 324. Check out some candid shots and what the campers had to say!

This camp rocks. End of story. This is my third year and I love it. There is never a dull moment in the process of making beautiful music J :/ J Peace, stay in school.
-Jake

This camp is cool!
- Dylan

This camp is amazing. It really helps with your music and you make loads of new friends.
- Zico

And a very happy 28th Birthday to our own Hayden Wright! See you tomorrow!

Gentle, Everyone, It's A First Timer!

2006-08-09T12:14:00.000-07:00

For as much fun as we have with our returning community of campers, probably the best thing is the constant influx of new faces who, with them, bring all sort of different kinds of influences and backgrounds to the musical experience that is Summer Music Programs. Elias is one such n00b:

This year was my first year at band camp and it was amazing. I had so much fun. My consoler was Kate. We learned "Crazy Train" by Ozzy, we wrote a song with my band and its called "Don't Tell Me". My band name is called Distortion Krew and we also learned "Back In Black" by AC/DC. I hope I can come back and see new people!
- Elias

Rock on Elias, we'll see you next year, and hopefully lots of other first timers too, for sure!

Karley & Naomi Have Lots To Say

2006-08-08T08:51:00.000-07:00

Today is day 2 of our journey in the forest of magical music experience. We have 3 songs in the bag and are getting pumped for the Love Park show. Karley and I have endured countless hours of hard labor with our two kewlist (sic) counselors who have the names Joshua and Jonathan. Today they told us to write a blog and we didn’t know what to write.

The end!!!!

-Karley & Naomi =D

A Short But Sweet Report From The Studio

2006-08-04T11:20:00.000-07:00

It's Friday morning here at Summer Music Programs, and the weekly day program concert is rocking below our mini blogosphere with the overnight show to follow in a couple hours. Don't hesitate to stop by if you're so inclined, it's free! For now we'll entertain you with a short studio diary from Evan:

Today we went to the studio and recorded songs. It was kick butt.

Also, Hayden left at 5 today. [Ed. note: This is a much bigger deal than Evan lets on -- Hayden left SMP for his first break in approx. 653 hours! Look for him in the next Guinness Book Of World Records!]

THE END!

- Evan

THE DIET & DAILY LIFE OF THE SMP'er

2006-08-02T15:50:00.000-07:00

Atticus Finch reminds us to not judge a man before you walk a mile in his shoes. So, with that in mind, we offer today a unique sneak peek into the daily life (and diet!) of our young campers via the typing fingers of Nate, Justin and Adam.

Today at smp I got up and ate bacon, French toast, and eggs. They were delicious. The syrup was to die for!!!! I love the food here. The dinner could use some work but everything else is A OKAY!!! So yeah and we also made some music.
-Natester

so, this week, we’re doin all Beatles songs. We’re having so much fun rocking out to “Helter Skelter”. The concert this Friday will be so amazing, and the studio should be fun too. I love SMP!
-Justin

Today I woke up and took a shower. I then went to eat. Then I brushed my teeth. Then I played some kick butt music. Then I ate some more. Then I played some more kick butt music. Then I typed this blog. This camp kicks butt.
-Adam

Coming soon: THE SUMMER MUSIC PROGRAMS OFFICIAL PODCAST! (Please try to contain yourselves...)

BOMB SCARE AT SMP!

2006-07-28T15:37:00.000-07:00

It was like an episode of "24" or something. Only with less Kiefer Sullivan and more waiting around outside in the sweltering heat. We were well aware that nothing stands as a more striking symbol of American imperialism like a suburban summer music camp, but this was a first even for us! Life during wartime, eh? (Honestly...who calls in a bomb threat to a college when school is out? Our guess is either verrry clueless terrorists or one of our young rockers who needed to stall for a little more time to work on their guitar solo. Either way, NOT COOL!)

But seriously folks, don't take our word for it, read this exclusive from Joe:

ok so today we had a bomb threat. We got back from doing our mixing and when we stepped in the building they sent us right out. They told us the bad news and we stayed outside for about forever!!!!!

we went to dunk’n dounuts for a while and the power went out there cause if the freaking thunder storm!!

then we played the frisbee and i threw one of the freaking roof!

then the place was cleared and we started to clean our isht.

We got a speach about the bomb threat!

we silenced out cellular telephones!

and it was crazy!!

im a ganna miss this camp =[

J
O
E
!

Elisa had this to say:

OK, let's blog! only one band was able to play before the bomb threat but....that shouldn’t influence your attendence to this camp...

anyway, this week was so much fun. the range of musicians this week was amazing. THe martinez bros. played some really complex Dream Theater songs (for those who don’t know dream theater, shame on you) and some kids have never played before but they managed to pull off the gorillaz and tom petty. i’m exited because tonight i get to see my first overnight band concert. I will definitely do overnight nex year

-elisa

Elisa also brought her friend who said this:

I don’t go to this camp but the concerts are awesome, and it seems like fun.
-Kayla

To which Eric replied:

This camp IS awesome, yo!

OH SNAP!

Epilogue: Nothing got blown up. Surprise! See you next week!

Dariel & Han!

2006-07-26T11:42:00.000-07:00

This camp is rockalicious. You play music all day which is awesome. And you also get to play games sometimes like pool or video games. The counselors are awesomely wicked musicians. You pick good songs and record them and then have a huge concert you make friends and stuff and get a lot better at your instrument. The whole week of camp rocks.
- Dariel

This program rocks. You get to play music that you like for the whole entire day. There's always something new to learn. And there's video games and pool involved which just makes the camp even more interesting. You get to make recordings, make new friends and have a concert. I can't think of anything to say that hasn't been said already about this camp so yeah, the camp rocks.
- Han

Pressing On! More Bloggers!

2006-07-25T14:13:00.000-07:00

Today at Summer Music Programs we made beautiful music in a safe environment at Harcum College. I think it is a great musical experience and i have been coming here for almost 4 years.
- Marshall

Summer Music Programs is amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You play with other people. Overnight is more fun than the day camp though. This is my second year and I hope there will be a third! Now I must go practice music adios señors.
- Emily

Deep Inside The Mind Of GREG WRIGHT

2006-07-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

Finally, today brings our first of soon-to-be many check-in's from SMP staffers and "executives". Today it's the infamous GREG WRIGHT!

This place is strange, I have space to work by myself, I also have time to see folks and interact with them, like I can just walk down the hall way and jump in a room and start jamming with a band, go into another room and play something completely different. Some of the instructors, I don't get to see them all year, then I become part of their lives again, like a family reunion. When I hear someone say they've had the time of their life at Summer Music Programs, I know I'm doing the right thing with my life. I'm glad they still let me jam with them, I guess I have to show them I can still hang musically, but I'm the director, so they're probably just being nice to me.

A Chat (Chet?) With One Dude And Two Ladies

2006-07-18T14:54:00.000-07:00

Today's blog features Lucy, Candace and Bennett in a conversational setting. Listen in:

Candace: "We have people that come every year and some new comers and everyone seems to enjoy their time spent in the day and overnight programs. Some of us, like Lucy, have been here for the past 2 weeks, because her parents were too lazy to bring her in every morning. Plus, she has a tendency to be late everywhere, so this is better.

"So, me, Lucy, and Bennett like to hang out together. Lucy's not in our band but she’s in most of the band pictures we took yesterday for the CD. Me and Bennett are in a band. And we’re pretty much the best band ever."

"Why don’t say something, Luce?"
"No, thanks."
"OK then, bye."

...And Now For Something From JAKE! And AMY!

2006-07-10T19:16:00.000-07:00

Today's diary comes from JAKE! And also AMY! Ch-ch-check it out, yo:

This is my third time attending Summer Music Programs. This camp is a fantastic place for all musicians to go. There's a plethora of different skill levels, which means that no one will feel left out or left behind. All the counselors are fun and are up for whatever you would like to do. Personally, I enjoy the studio the most. On Thursday, each group goes to a recording studio to document what they have been working on for the three previous days. Then, on Friday after the concert each person gets a copy of his or her recordings to bring home. Summer Music Programs is an all around great place.
- Jake

I came to Summer Music Programs last year with my friend, and we had the best week of our lives. This camp offers so many great opportunities like recording and playing on stage. You come and meet and play with musicians of all ages from so many different places; it’s incredible. And at the end of an awesome week, all of your hard work really pays of when you walk off stage carrying your c.d. The memories and friends you make at Summer Music Programs will stay for a lifetime.
- Amy

Well put, guys! And now, some flicks:

We'll be back tomorrow with our weekly roundup of the Overnight Session bands' first week in action!

Four For The Fourth: Musical Fireworks!

2006-07-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

Looking at a brochure for this camp, it seems way too good to be true. So I was surprised to find that the program was in fact just as good as it sounded…perhaps better. My name is Maggie and I found out about Harcum’s program from my voice teacher. I came with three friends: two guitarists and a drummer. I’ve always loved to sing, and Harcum’s program offers an opportunity to perform and record with people who love music as much as I do.

Hey, I’m Laura and I’m 14 years old. I’m really happy I took this opportunity to be a part of this day camp and jam with my friends. Everyone here has a very casual attitude—and it’s a great place to experiment with new music ideas and get the experience of playing in a band. Definitely consider doing this camp—it’s really awesome-possum!

My name is Vicky, and I am fourteen years old. I came to Harcum’s summer music camp hoping to have to opportunity to get a chance to play my guitar with my friends. This camp ended up being a fun and challenging learning experience. I had a really good time playing with my friends and our instructor is really cool. This camp is definitely worth considering.

I’m really glad Laura, Vicky, Maggie and I came to Summer Music Programs. It’s a really great way to improve your playing skills, and learn how to put your own unique spin on songs you want to play. You learn a lot about music, but also about cooperation. It’s a really great experience, and I recommend Summer Music Programs to anyone and everyone interested in exploring music and those who love and play it. -- Gerry / Age 14 / Guitar

Andiamo Bilingue!

2006-07-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

Living proof that music knows no barriers, be they physical, metaphorical or lingual, SMP is commonly home to visitors from all over the globe, including several from Europe who speak English as a second language. So, today we're pleased to check in with today's daily blogs, one in typical English from Alexis and one from our resident real-live Italian, Filippo. Mamma mia!

I have been at Summer Music Programs for four or five years now and I'm now 18 years old. At Summer Music Programs, I am a singer. This year I am singing a Metallica song called “Nothing Else Matters” and an AC/DC song called “Back In Black”. In the past, I’ve sang System Of A Down, Evanscence, Led Zeppelin, Nirvana, The Beatles, The Killers and more. I’ve had so much fun here and I’m really sad that this will be my last summer here.
-- Alexis

E’ un esperienza fantastica perche’ oltre a sviluppare le tue capacita musicali ti inserisci in un vero gruppo dove si suona vera musica. Dal rock al jazz, gli istruttori sono persone molto competitive e simpatiche L’ambiente risulta accogliente e pieno di fascino...Il concerto del venerdi e’emozionante anche perche’ ci si puo confrontare guardando I diversi gruppi, alla fine della settimana bellissimo il ricordo del cd registrato il sala di registrazione.
-- Filippo

Vederla domani! Ciao!

2 Post-Concert Wrap-Up Blogs From Resident Hessians

2006-06-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

Well, week two is over, and here, fresh from rocking the Harcum stage, we have Matt and Christian to relate their epic experience this week at Summer Music Programs:

I just played at the summer music programs concert and it feels like I’m living my dreams! It was very fun and fulling playing in the concert because my band has been practicing very hard all week in anticipation for this concert. It was cool going to Acoustical Concepts at Widner University, a professional recording studio. My instructor, Dennis, was very nice and helpful. He was very good at guitar. It was a fun week. He also liked the music we do so he could help us with our songs and find out how to play them easily.
-- Matt

I just got finished playing the concert at Summer Music Programs. It was great. We got to practice all week in the Harcum College dorms, and record all our songs. During the week we had an instructor, Dennis, help us learn and play the songs. He liked metal too, and was very helpful with teaching us the songs and playing along with us. It really made me feel like a professional musician when i played at the concert. It was a great feeling and I plan on continuing to go to this camp.
-- Christian

And, as always, some exclusive rehearsal pics from Week 2:

Also be sure to check out the Summer Music Programs MySpace page which now features streaming mp3s from the past two weeks' recording sessions!

Week 2 Studio Diaries!

2006-06-29T12:48:00.000-07:00

Today we have not one, not two, not even three, but FOUR diaries straight from the weekly studio session! Check out what they have to say, then come see all the bands live at our free concert tomorrow afternoon at Harcum College in Bryn Mawr (click here for more info on that)! Words from the stars:

The MilkBoy Studio was totally incredibly awesome. Everything sounded great and ran smoothly. I am excited to receive the CD with the songs my band recorded, I am also looking forward to listening to the songs that the other bands played.
-- Cassidy

MilkBoy was SO FLIPPEN SWEET! The waiting room was very nice, and there was always something to do while another band was on. I really loved the actual room that we played in to. "Top Of The Pops" went really smoothly, and I cant wait to see how my bass playing, and singing has developed over the last year. Also, I want to see how Jake's voice, and Cassidy's druming has changed. I really can not wait untill next year, and have a third year of non stop playing (I mean non-stop...I have like five blisters on my fingers!). It will be awsome! I love this camp, and this year was just as awsome as last. I
had a great time with Matt last year, and Kate this year. Thanks to them for making this camp awsome!
-- Caroline

So, recording at Milk Boy was awesome, and i loved it s0o0o much, cause i not only recorded with my band, but recorded music with my best friends, and that’s what I think is importaint to me. Being with my band at this camp, is one of the best and fun things i have ever done with my best friends. We are truly real brothers and sisters. Sure, we fight, but that is what makes us better doing what we love. It makes us realize what we have done wrong, and we realize, it makes us better people, and better friends. Thats whats importaint, not recording. But still, i loved recording there, and i love this band like they are my brothers and sisters.
- Phil

Milkboy was a totally awesome experiance. It was really really Really fun, and also it is only a few blocks from my house. At the studio, you could a) practice ,b) watch tv, c) play viedo games at cool arcade type things, d) watch other bands recording or e) just hang out with your friends. My band has wanted to record in a studio for a long time and this was our chance. All in all, it was a really cool experience =)
-- Jake

And now, some photos from the studio, taken just hours ago:

See you all at the concert tomorrow!

All The Way From The Rockies, It's Peter & Bobby!

2006-06-28T09:02:00.000-07:00

We came from Colorado to this camp as part of a vacation. I (Peter) play keyboards, and my brother Bobby plays drums. This camp is one of the greatest experiences we’ve ever had! It's been a great opportunity to build our musical skills in a style we really enjoy. We were allowed to write music or play other bands’ music, so we wrote one song and learned three others. They paired us up with other musicians who wanted to play the same style you and we created a full band, along with our instructor. The food is also really good here, a lot better then most schools that I've been to! This camp is definitely worth the trip, IT ROCKS!!!

-- Peter & Bobby

INSANITY IN A FISHBOWL!

2006-06-27T14:09:00.000-07:00

Today's report comes from Seth, Evan and Stu -- also known as INSANITY IN A FISHBOWL -- who not only came to Summer Music Programs as a pre-existing entity, but even have their own MySpace page! Here's what they had to say:

Our band, Insanity In a Fishbowl, has gotten back together after about five months. We're working on a bunch of new tunes such as "When We Combine Forces, We Morph Into A Megazord" and "90's Rock Song". They're a lot more rock-oriented than our older stuff and are really starting to take shape. Writing new songs can be fun and annoying. Writing lyrics is the hardest part because we can never think of anything to write about. However, once we do get the lyrics written and the song finished, it comes out great. Our situation is somewhat unique in that we came as a band with songs already semi-prepared. A lot of people come with no one else and get assigned with other people to write originals or do cover songs. So remember to come to the
show on Friday, and see many great bands.

Seth, Evan and Stu -- INSANITY IN A FISHBOWL

Check back for more tomorrow!

Summer Music Programs 2006 Has Begun!

2006-06-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

Well hello there! You are currently reading the first of what will be many, many daily blogs from Summer Music Programs staff, instructors and, of course, the young rockers themselves! We'll be posting the first daily rehearsal update from the wild and crazy Insanity In A Fishbowl later today, but in the meantime, check out these exclusive studio and concert pics from week one of our day program:

Or, perhaps you'd like to check out an all access video slideshow of a real life SMP band rehearsal? Click here for broadband or here for dial-up! We'll be back shortly with our first exclusive Summer Music Programs band blog!

Is Anyone Out There? Is This Thing On?

2006-03-31T12:30:00.000-08:00

Can you hear me?