How do I know if I should apply as a participant or an auditor?

Participants should be comfortable performing in a masterclass setting, similar to a mock audition. Auditors are usually first time campers who want to experience all that camp has to offer, but without performing in front of the other campers.

See “Types of Attendees” under Application Information for a comparison between Participant and Auditor camp experience.

I’m done with school, can I still come to the camp?

Yes! Our campers range from 15 years old to retiree, with skill levels ranging from advanced high school student all the way up to professional.

See “Age Restrictions” under Application Information for age-related application requirements.

Can I come to camp early?

Wildacres cannot accommodate early arrivals, but there are nearby hotels for campers who need to travel prior to the arrival date.

See “Early and Late Departure” under Travel Information for more information.

If I fly to Asheville, how should I get to camp from the airport?

JMOC provides a complimentary shuttle to transport campers between the Asheville airport and Wildacres.

See “Airport Shuttle” under Travel Information for details and restrictions.

How much does it cost to go to JMOC?

For current tuition cost, see “Tuition” under Tuition and Financial Aid.

How can I apply for a scholarship?

Campers apply for scholarship via email. For specific application instructions, see “Financial Aid” under Tuition and Financial Aid.

What will I play?

Participants will receive two playing assignments (excerpt, étude, and/or solo). Auditors may prepare music of their choice for their lesson. For fun, campers may also play chamber music and read solos with our camp pianist.

For more details about music assignments, see “Assignments and Repertoire” under What Music is Covered at Camp?

Where can I access the music for my playing assignments?

An audio playlist and PDF file of sheet music for assigned excerpts will be posted to our website each May. See Preparing your Assignment for links and for more information.

Can I request a roommate?

Yes. To request a roommate, please email requests to johnmackoboecamp@gmail.com at least one week before camp begins.

See “Roommate Requests” under Housing for more information.

What do campers do for meals?

Campers receive 3 meals per day plus evening snacks/refreshments.

“The food is delicious and plentiful. The kitchen staff provides a vegetarian alternative at each meal and is good at helping others with special dietary needs. If you have dietary concerns you should contact the food service manager at Wildacres. We are not able to fully deal with every diet so you may need to bring some things with you.” (http://wildacres.org/resources/faq.html)

What if I have dietary restrictions?

The Wildacres dining hall accommodates most dietary restrictions (vegan, dairy free, vegetarian, gluten free, etc). Please indicate allergies and restrictions on your application in the appropriate section. Once at camp, campers with restrictions should put their names on the “dietary restrictions" sheet during registration and then introduce themselves to dining hall staff at the opening meal. At each meal, those campers will receive their restriction-friendly meal directly from the dining staff. Those with more uncommon dietary restrictions may want to contact the food service manager at Wildacres prior to arrival.

Can I bring a family member to camp?

We discourage campers’ parents from attending, as this is an opportunity for a student to make life-long friends and be independent in a safe environment. If family members want to vacation nearby, we can suggest some local hotels.

Spouses may attend and stay at Wildacres at a reduced guest rate.

What precautions are being taken with regard to the pandemic?

We are taking many precautions to protect the health and safety of our campers. A complete list can be found here.