Whole Music, LLC

covid-19 and camp:

In 2022 and 2023, our music community did a phenomenal job keeping each other healthy and safe. We experienced zero covid diagnoses during or following Whole Music Camp, thanks to everyone’s spirit of cooperation. We’ll continue to prioritize keeping each other safe. Should we need to cancel camp, all participants will receive a full and immediate refund (100%).

We spend the vast majority of our time outdoors, including during classes and meals. Also helpful is the small nature of our camp, and camp’s nearby location within Nevada County.

We will comply with all state and local health protocol during camp. Currently, campers are not required to provide test results or vaccine status, nor are they required to mask. If this changes, we will update this info accordingly.

Do not attend if you or your family have had a recent covid exposure or feel unwell. Please reach out with questions: wholemusicstudio@gmail.com.

what should we do when we arrive at camp?

Check in on Friday between 4:00-5:30pm. Find the welcome table to pay your balance and receive your schedule, name tag, and lodging information. Settle into your cabin and join us for orientation over a delicious dinner at 5:30pm.

can we bring dogs? Really good dogs?

I’m sorry, but no pets at Camp Winthers.

what about smoking?

No smoking on campus, please.

How should we pay?

Campers may submit payment ahead of time or pay on Friday afternoon when they arrive. We accept cash, check, and Venmo @Amie-Ferrier.

Do you have scholarships available this year?

We do. Our scholarship fund is limited and is allocated on a first-come basis. We do not screen for financial need and trust that those who seek assistance genuinely need it. Please email us or add a note anywhere on your registration form to inquire about scholarship availability.

If you would like to donate to our 2024 scholarship fund, please reach out - it has a truly meaningful impact for our camp families. Currently, 100% of our scholarship funds come from private donations. Thank you!

what’s your refund policy?

We can honor cancelations with a full refund until July 1st. After July 1st, tuition is nonrefundable and the balance must be paid even if participants are unable to attend. Please notify us before July 1st if you need to make any changes to your registration.

How do I sign up for the workshops I want?

After completing registration online, students will be emailed a link to select their workshop choices at camp. You may modify your choices at any time.

what if I don’t play an instrument?

For our non-musical friends, we have loads of fun beginner workshops that are open to everyone regardless of experience.

can I choose who sleeps in my cabin?

Yes! Please contact wholemusicstudio@gmail.com with any preferences and we’ll do our best to accommodate them.

What are the cabins like?

Cabins are either stick frame (wood) or large permanent canvas structures. The stick frame cabins have electricity and bunk beds, while the canvas cabins have no electricity and cots. They’re rustic - we’re camping in the woods! If you see a spider, just give it a name and say hello.

when is sunday check-out time?

11am.

can you accommodate dietary needs?

Yes, but we encourage you to bring supplemental snacks to be sure that you get plenty of food over the course of the weekend. We have a fridge if needed.

what if I want to try an instrument for the very first time / don’t know how to read sheet music?

We ask all participants to have at least a basic proficiency on their instrument (usually about six months of playing, or a few tunes) before joining any of the instrumental workshops. Reading music is not required, as most teachers at camp teach by ear.

what’s the deal with the story slam?

This year’s story theme is ‘School Days.’ If you’d like to participate, the rules are simple: think of a true story related to the theme that has happened to you firsthand. A favorite teacher, your best pal in kindergarten, skipping class and getting busted, crashing the car in Drivers Ed - you get the idea. Stories usually run 3-6 minutes and can be joyful, sad, strange, suspenseful, ridiculous, or all of the above. We have room for ten sign-ups.

do you have counselors to supervise my kiddo?

No. This is a family-style camp, so all participants under age 18 must have a guardian accompany them. Parents and siblings can join in all of our workshops, as well as art, games, swimming, and hiking.

can I bring my friends?

Absolutely - everyone is welcome. Registration is required to attend.

I can’t wait to swim/KAYAK/SUP in the lake!

The lake is phenomenal. Personal flotation devices (life jackets) are required for anyone on a personal water craft and must be brought from home. If you’re bringing a paddle board or kayak, pack your life jacket! This does not apply to regular swimmers.

will there be a bonfire?

Most likely, yes. We take fire safety seriously and will assess conditions before deciding. Absolutely no fires outside of the fire ring are permitted.

Our bonfire will be facilitated by fire safety master Eli and all campers are welcome to join in the evening jam sessions. We’ll send out a song list in advance for students who want to brush up on our camp tunes at home, and there will be a Buddy Section led by a teacher for campers who are new to jamming or want a little extra support.

can I borrow an instrument?

Yes! Email wholemusicstudio@gmail.com to arrange this in advance.

what if I have a medical conditioN?

Please bring any medical supplies you may need and notify us if you'll require assistance. We’ll be happy to help. We will have a basic first aid kit on site, but will be in a fairly remote area and not immediately near emergency services.

will there be awesome free stickers again this year?

Why, yes, as a matter of fact. :)

What should I bring to camp?

-your instrument(s) and any accessories you may need: tuner, capo, strap, pick, etc.
-a recording device for classes (the iPhone voice memo app works great)
-sunscreen, bug spray, hat, sunglasses, layers, etc.
-any medication you may need
-a camp chair
​-a refillable water bottle to reduce waste
-a flashlight, swimming suit, hiking boots, and towel
-bedding, a bath kit, a tent if you selected weekend tent camping, and personal snacks to enjoy
​-a storytelling idea if you'd like to join in the dinnertime story slam