FAQs
Q: Is there going to be a fiddle camp this summer?
Because of COVID-19 restrictions, we will not be hosting an in-person fiddle camp this summer (2021), however we are developing some really exciting online opportunities that we hope to share with you soon. Sign up for our mailing list on the homepage to be first to hear the news!
Q: What age is Fiddle Camp for?
A: 5-85! We’re not kidding. Our oldest participants have been in their 80s. The multi-generational nature of Fiddle Camp is something that makes it special and an amazing learning experience for all. Our starting age is 5, and usually they have a parent with them in their classes. Over the years, we’ve found that kids need to be at least 5 to get the most out of Fiddle Camp, as it is a very big and busy week, as well as a very fun week! Also, class levels are aimed at participants ages 5 and up (unless specified otherwise). New this year, we have a musical preschool option "Little Groovers" for 3-6 year olds which runs from 9-12 Tuesday-Friday.
Q: How Much Does Fiddle Camp Cost?
A: Fiddle camp tuition is listed under each camp on the "registration" page. The best deal is for full time participants who take 3 elective classes per day (Each Family must have at least one full time participant). However, additional family members can sign up for 1 or 2 classes each day (part-time), space permitting. Lunch is included with your registration, but other Meals & Accommodations are separate.
Q: What if I Really Want To Come But Truly Can't Afford It?
A: We offer a limited number of Work Trade positions that you can ask us about,or check out our bursary options.
Q: What if I don't play the Fiddle?
A: Then check out our first time fiddle classes, or our large selection of non-fiddle classes including cello (or viola!), double bass, piano, percussion, ukulele, voice, songwriting, art, puppetry, theatre, dance...
Q: What If I don't have a fiddle? Or a cello? Or a Keyboard, ukulele...
A: Then you can rent one in any size from Laura Wallace laura@wallaceviolins.ca. It is very inexpensive and a great way to try it out. She has other instruments besides fiddles too, including cellos! And she brings the instrument you rent right to camp. If Laura can't help you, we suggest that you call the nearest Long & McQuade (Victoria, Vancouver or Nanaimo) and find out what you can rent for camp.
Q: Where can I stay while I'm at Fiddle Camp?
A: Accommodations are not included with your tuition, but there are some great on-site options at camp or lots of other local accommodations.
Q: Can I Share A Room With Someone?
A: Sharing Accommodations is not a problem, but you will have to set it up yourself-- either by contacting someone you know or by posting on our closed Facebook Groups.
Q: What is the difference between a full time and part time student?
A: Full time students get first choice of three daily workshops plus orchestra & jam/dance classes, it's the way to get the most out of camp.
- Part time students are family members of full time participants and are given 2nd priority for registration; they will get to take the course(s) they register for as long as there is still room in them after the full time participants have chosen their classes. (We'll let you know if there's an issue).
Q: Can I just come for one or two days?
A: Sorry, but drop in registration is not an option at our camp. It's for your sake and the sake of everyone at camp that we are all working, playing and progressing together as part of the same "community" for the full four days-- plus anyone who's been at fiddle camp will tell you would be crazy to want any less!
Q: What if I have to cancel?
A: It's a shame, but we understand that sometimes life doesn't go the way we want it to! We can offer full or partial refunds or credits. See our Cancellation Policies
Q: What is the food like? Can I eat my own food instead?
A: Fiddleworks is lucky to have gourmet Island Chef Dylan Wilson from Bullock Lake Farm creating each meal fresh that day using organic produce from the farm and nearby, plus local meat and fish in the daily dinner option. All the food is world class delicious, so good for you, and made with love and smiles. We also offer gluten free, and dairy free options. Marcus Gill will also offer dinner at the
at Fulford Hall. Lunches are part of all class registrations, but dinners are optional and for purchase at the evening venue.
If you would prefer to take care of your own dinners at camp on Salt Spring, you are welcome to do so. Just know that there are limited restaurants and stores nearby, and that onsite food at the Salt Spring Centre must be vegetarian (no eggs or fish).
Q: Can I bring my dog to fiddle camp?
A: Sorry, as much as we like them, absolutely no dogs allowed at fiddle camp. woof.
Q: What should I bring to Fiddle Camp?
A: Here's a list of recommended items to bring to Fiddle Camp
A: Depending on which cell phone carrier you are with there is limited cell coverage, and no public wi-fi.
Q: This is my first year at Fiddle Camp, how will I know where to go and what to do?
A: We are a friendly bunch and welcome everyone, returning and new to Fiddle Camp each year. On the first day we will all get together and talk through the week and set you on the right track. You’ll also be receiving an information package after you register, about a month before camp. There will also be a "newbie" table that will be attended at certain times by an experienced and friendly camper who can answer all your questions. If you have any questions before camp begins, please contact us.
Q: I've registered for Fiddle Camp and I'm not sure if the classes I signed up for are the right level for me. What do I do?
A: Never fear. In May each year, participants receive music and audio files (if provided for the classes they've signed up for). At that stage, for whatever reason, if that class isn't going to work out, you will have the option to switch into a different class using the Class Change form. All class switching has to be done by July 1st. If you get to camp and feel like you've made a wrong class choice, you need to change classes on the first day.
Q: Can I Volunteer at Fiddle Camp?
YES! There are lots of opportunities for participants and their family members to volunteer at fiddle camp. We love our volunteers, and everybody contributing a little bit of volunteer time is what makes fiddle camp magic happen! There is a comprehensive list of Fiddleworker jobs. You can also sign up for a volunteer job on the first day of camp. THANKS!!
If you have more questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Because of COVID-19 restrictions, we will not be hosting an in-person fiddle camp this summer (2021), however we are developing some really exciting online opportunities that we hope to share with you soon. Sign up for our mailing list on the homepage to be first to hear the news!
Q: What age is Fiddle Camp for?
A: 5-85! We’re not kidding. Our oldest participants have been in their 80s. The multi-generational nature of Fiddle Camp is something that makes it special and an amazing learning experience for all. Our starting age is 5, and usually they have a parent with them in their classes. Over the years, we’ve found that kids need to be at least 5 to get the most out of Fiddle Camp, as it is a very big and busy week, as well as a very fun week! Also, class levels are aimed at participants ages 5 and up (unless specified otherwise). New this year, we have a musical preschool option "Little Groovers" for 3-6 year olds which runs from 9-12 Tuesday-Friday.
Q: How Much Does Fiddle Camp Cost?
A: Fiddle camp tuition is listed under each camp on the "registration" page. The best deal is for full time participants who take 3 elective classes per day (Each Family must have at least one full time participant). However, additional family members can sign up for 1 or 2 classes each day (part-time), space permitting. Lunch is included with your registration, but other Meals & Accommodations are separate.
Q: What if I Really Want To Come But Truly Can't Afford It?
A: We offer a limited number of Work Trade positions that you can ask us about,or check out our bursary options.
Q: What if I don't play the Fiddle?
A: Then check out our first time fiddle classes, or our large selection of non-fiddle classes including cello (or viola!), double bass, piano, percussion, ukulele, voice, songwriting, art, puppetry, theatre, dance...
Q: What If I don't have a fiddle? Or a cello? Or a Keyboard, ukulele...
A: Then you can rent one in any size from Laura Wallace laura@wallaceviolins.ca. It is very inexpensive and a great way to try it out. She has other instruments besides fiddles too, including cellos! And she brings the instrument you rent right to camp. If Laura can't help you, we suggest that you call the nearest Long & McQuade (Victoria, Vancouver or Nanaimo) and find out what you can rent for camp.
Q: Where can I stay while I'm at Fiddle Camp?
A: Accommodations are not included with your tuition, but there are some great on-site options at camp or lots of other local accommodations.
Q: Can I Share A Room With Someone?
A: Sharing Accommodations is not a problem, but you will have to set it up yourself-- either by contacting someone you know or by posting on our closed Facebook Groups.
Q: What is the difference between a full time and part time student?
A: Full time students get first choice of three daily workshops plus orchestra & jam/dance classes, it's the way to get the most out of camp.
- Part time students are family members of full time participants and are given 2nd priority for registration; they will get to take the course(s) they register for as long as there is still room in them after the full time participants have chosen their classes. (We'll let you know if there's an issue).
Q: Can I just come for one or two days?
A: Sorry, but drop in registration is not an option at our camp. It's for your sake and the sake of everyone at camp that we are all working, playing and progressing together as part of the same "community" for the full four days-- plus anyone who's been at fiddle camp will tell you would be crazy to want any less!
Q: What if I have to cancel?
A: It's a shame, but we understand that sometimes life doesn't go the way we want it to! We can offer full or partial refunds or credits. See our Cancellation Policies
Q: What is the food like? Can I eat my own food instead?
A: Fiddleworks is lucky to have gourmet Island Chef Dylan Wilson from Bullock Lake Farm creating each meal fresh that day using organic produce from the farm and nearby, plus local meat and fish in the daily dinner option. All the food is world class delicious, so good for you, and made with love and smiles. We also offer gluten free, and dairy free options. Marcus Gill will also offer dinner at the
at Fulford Hall. Lunches are part of all class registrations, but dinners are optional and for purchase at the evening venue.
If you would prefer to take care of your own dinners at camp on Salt Spring, you are welcome to do so. Just know that there are limited restaurants and stores nearby, and that onsite food at the Salt Spring Centre must be vegetarian (no eggs or fish).
Q: Can I bring my dog to fiddle camp?
A: Sorry, as much as we like them, absolutely no dogs allowed at fiddle camp. woof.
Q: What should I bring to Fiddle Camp?
A: Here's a list of recommended items to bring to Fiddle Camp
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen/hat and other sun protection
- Crocs, sandals or other easy to slip on shoes (shoes aren't allowed in all indoor spaces)
- A little bit of cash, there's a snack shack store and each night's dinner is cash only.
- Raincoat, boots, just in case...it may be July, but this is the westcoast after all!
- Travel mug (disposable mugs and any disposable cutlery/plates etc are not allowed onsite.)
- Own toiletries/towels etc. There are no toiletries available onsite.
- Bedding and camping gear if camping onsite (Salt Spring only).
A: Depending on which cell phone carrier you are with there is limited cell coverage, and no public wi-fi.
Q: This is my first year at Fiddle Camp, how will I know where to go and what to do?
A: We are a friendly bunch and welcome everyone, returning and new to Fiddle Camp each year. On the first day we will all get together and talk through the week and set you on the right track. You’ll also be receiving an information package after you register, about a month before camp. There will also be a "newbie" table that will be attended at certain times by an experienced and friendly camper who can answer all your questions. If you have any questions before camp begins, please contact us.
Q: I've registered for Fiddle Camp and I'm not sure if the classes I signed up for are the right level for me. What do I do?
A: Never fear. In May each year, participants receive music and audio files (if provided for the classes they've signed up for). At that stage, for whatever reason, if that class isn't going to work out, you will have the option to switch into a different class using the Class Change form. All class switching has to be done by July 1st. If you get to camp and feel like you've made a wrong class choice, you need to change classes on the first day.
Q: Can I Volunteer at Fiddle Camp?
YES! There are lots of opportunities for participants and their family members to volunteer at fiddle camp. We love our volunteers, and everybody contributing a little bit of volunteer time is what makes fiddle camp magic happen! There is a comprehensive list of Fiddleworker jobs. You can also sign up for a volunteer job on the first day of camp. THANKS!!
If you have more questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.