Percussion Camp
July 6-10, 2026 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
2026 registration will open in late October.
Early bird registration fee: $995 (received May 1 or earlier)
Registration fee after May 1: $1095
Registration deadline: June 10, 2026
Call 815-753-1450 to inquire about late registration.
You can register online. You'll pay a $100 deposit when you register. The remaining balance is due by June 15.
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.
- Ben Wahlund - high school percussion ensemble, camp director
- Yuko Asada - middle school steel band
- Gregory Beyer - orchestral percussion, Samba and afro-brazilian percussion
- Jean-Christophe Leroy – afro-cuban ensembles
- Liam Teague – high school steel band
- Bernard Long Jr. - drum set
- Brandon Estes - snare drum, middle school percussion ensemble
- Raychel Taylor - keyboard percussion, gamelan
- Annika Burchell – women’s dean
- Karl Olsen – men’s dean
Schedule
A general overview of the camp schedule is below.
| Date and Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
|
Monday |
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 ArtsOffice 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.)
