Percussion Camp

July 7-11, 2025  Grades 6-12 (grade completion)

About

Explore the world of snare drum, drum set, gamelan, timpani and keyboard percussion, rehearse in samba bands, concert percussion ensembles, steel bands, enjoy faculty recitals and perform in the Percussion showcase concert!

As a camper you'll stay in Gilbert Hall during the week. 

We'll send you a packet of camp information in early June.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to bring for classes and rehearsals? Bring a pair of drum sticks, a drum pad, a pair of yarn or cord keyboard mallets, a notebook and a pencil. No need to bring bell kits or drums.

Do I need to read music? No, but it would make camp easier and more enjoyable for you. We will have student volunteers available for anyone who may need help.

What if I don't know how to play some of these instruments? Great! This is exactly why we are happy to host this camp. This will be a safe, fun and engaging environment to expand your knowledge of the wonderful world of percussion regardless of your level of experience.

What if I have special needs? Through the Community School of the Arts and our outstanding faculty and volunteers, we are happy to help with any special needs you have. Please note any physical considerations, food allergies and/or learning strategies that would be worth sharing on your registration form.

What kind of clothes should I wear? Classes can get quite active, so comfortable and classroom-appropriate attire is great. Shorts and modest shirts are welcome. Athletic shoes are suggested, but sandals are fine.

Registration

Early bird registration fee: $850 (received June 1 or earlier)
Registration fee after June 1: $900
Registration deadline: June 11, 2025

Registration is now closed. Call 815-753-1450 to inquire about late registration.

Returning camper and family discount: $25 (for campers who have previously attended Percussion Camp, and the children and grandchildren of NIU students, staff and faculty members)

You can register online. You'll pay a $100 deposit when you register. The remaining balance is due by June 16.

Need-based scholarship assistance is available.

Staff

Our Percussion Camp staff is composed of talented NIU faculty, students and alumni. The ratio of campers to staff members is about 12 to one. Staff members are assigned to each residence hall floor and accompany campers to all meals and activities.

Schedule

A general overview of the camp schedule is below.

Date and Time Activity Location

Monday
8:30-9:30 a.m.

Check-in

First, take your luggage to Gilbert Hall. Next, go to the nearby Music Building to pick up camp materials.

Monday to Friday

Camp activities

Music Building

Friday
Noon-1:30 p.m.

All-camp performance

Boutell Memorial Concert Hall (Music Building)

After the performance, pick up your luggage from Gilbert Hall .

What to Bring Checklist

  • Comfortable/sturdy athletic/walking shoes or sandals
  • A pair of drumsticks, a drum pad, a pair of yarn or cord keyboard mallets, and a notebook
  • Umbrella or rain gear
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Sweatshirt
  • Alarm clock
  • Water bottle
  • Sheets and pillowcase (standard twin size)
  • Towels, blanket, pillow
  • Small amount of money for souvenirs and snacks

Contact Us

College of Visual and Performing Arts
Office of External Programs

Music Building 132

Kristin Sherman
815-753-1450
ksherman2@niu.edu

Online Office Hours

Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
(lunch from noon – 1 p.m.)

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