Classes and Events
‘‘This is an amazing highlight of my summer thus far, and I have been inspired to practice harder than ever before." -Chris, 2022
Artists Recital and Opening Reception
JMOC begins each year with a faculty recital followed by a reception. Both of these are open to the public.
Audition and Solo Repertory
During evening classes, orchestral excerpts that often cost oboists their jobs will come under intense scrutiny. Participants gain mock audition experience in these classes, as two campers are assigned to each excerpt. In addition, several oboists will be chosen to perform solo literature, in a masterclass setting, to allow others to gain both repertory experience and exposure to different teaching methods.
Instrument Repair
Oboe repairman John Symer will lead a seminar in oboe adjustment, and he will also be available to provide adjustments and minor repairs to the instrument each camper plays in class. There is no charge to campers for this service.
Shopping
RDG Woodwinds, Inc. has been humbled and excited to be a part of the John Mack Oboe Camp experience! At JMOC’s RDG shop, campers can peruse items such as staples, cane, knives, threads, and much more. Throughout the week at camp, stop by during the hours of operation to pick up all of your needs for the week and onward!
Reed Making
Various classes and panels will address topics including reed making basics, equipment, reed finishing, and troubleshooting. In addition, each camper will have the option to attend a reed doctoring session midway through the week.
Canteen and Story Telling
When John Mack taught the camp, he was known to regale campers with stories of his teacher, Marcel Tabuteau. His students now carry on the tradition by telling stories of their time with Mr. Mack. Light snacks and refreshments are provided nightly.
“So you want to be a Freelancer?”
Camp director Danna Sundet will lead a class on some of the repertoire that is crucial to a successful freelancing career. She will also offer information on the business aspects of self-employment in the music field, including pay, communication, and professionalism.
Free Day Activities
Campers may have opportunities for hiking, swimming, and golfing, weather permitting. Golfers, bring your clubs!
Oboe Fundamentals
Morning masterclasses will feature Barret and Ferling études, stressing tone-building, phrasing, articulation, and ornamentation.
Alexander Technique Class
Petrea Warneck will lead an introductory Alexander Technique class that focuses on how to play the oboe and make reeds with greater ease, less tension, and more reliable success! We will explore balance and poise on stage, efficiency in the practice room, self-care and freedom at the reed desk, breathing, stage fright, and more! Private and small group sessions will also be offered, as time permits.
Gouger Maintenance
Robin Driscoll, owner of Opus1 Gougers, will walk campers through the process of sharpening and adjusting gouging machines.
Optional Solo Reading Sessions
Our collaborative pianist is happy to sight read through literature that you bring to camp. There is a sign up at the beginning of the week, so remember to bring your music!