Summer camps for young musicians

The Ocala Symphony Orchestra Music Conservatory will offer two summer camps. [Photo courtesy Reilly Arts Center]

The Community Music Conservatory, located at the Reilly Arts Center, at 500 NE 9th St., Ocala, features teaching studios, professional staff and faculty, and performance spaces that include the 700-seat mainstage auditorium and NOMA Black Box.

Conservatory programming includes group classes and private instruction designed for students of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels. The conservatory is managed by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra team and is committed to fostering an environment of creativity, life-long learning and quality instruction.

The conservatory has announced its 2026 Summer Music Camps for students in grades 3–12:

• Meet the Instruments, for grades 3-5, from 9 a.m. to noon, June 15-19, with instructor Theresa Weatherly. This camp is good for young beginners and invites students to explore the world of music through a hands-on, interactive experience. Participants will have the opportunity to hear, learn about and play a variety of band and orchestra instruments under the guidance of professional musicians.
• Conservatory Jazz Intensive, for grades 9-12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., July 6-10, with instructor Jack Covell and guest clinicians Rick Hajduk, Jimmy Sexton and Logan Hedgepath. This camp is designed for high school musicians ready to elevate their artistry. The immersive experience is focused on ensemble performance, sectionals and guided improvisation. Students will work with experienced instructors and guest clinicians to refine technique, expand musical vocabulary and build confidence in a collaborative setting. The program culminates in a concert where participants will showcase their progress in a live performance.

To learn more and register for camp, go to reillyartscenter.com/summer-camps/