CAMP OrKidstra 2026 Brings Music, Leadership, and Summer Fun Together
From July 2–10, CAMP OrKidstra once again filled the summer with music, friendship, creativity, and unforgettable memories.
With 111 students registered—our largest camp ever—children and youth from all three OrKidstra Hubs came together for six exciting days of music, leadership, learning and community.
This year’s camp began by welcoming our older students into OrKidstra’s Leaders-in-Training (LiT) program. During the first two days, LiTs took part in interactive workshops, team-building activities, ensemble rehearsals, and leadership development sessions designed to prepare them for an important role the following week. Once the full camp got underway, these young leaders worked alongside OrKidstra staff to mentor younger campers, helping to create a supportive and welcoming environment for everyone.
“I really love mentoring and playing along with the younger kids here.” – Moyra, age 15, violin, OrKidstra student for 10 years
Throughout the week, mornings were dedicated to singing and playing music together during group lessons, rehearsals, and ensemble performances. The fun continued in the afternoon with laughter and adventure, featuring tie-dye shirt making, arts and crafts, musical improv, team-building games, and plenty of outdoor activities like water balloon tosses.
One of the greatest joys of CAMP OrKidstra is bringing students together from across our three Hubs to learn from one another, build friendships, and perform as one musical community.
Despite an unexpected challenge at the start of the week, our students and staff demonstrated remarkable resilience. Following the major storms that swept through Ottawa, power outages at our Vanier Hub forced us to cancel the first day of our main camp. Rather than letting the setback define the week, everyone came together with determination and positivity, making the most of the days that followed.
That spirit shone brightly during our Play and Tell celebration on July 9, where campers proudly performed for family and friends after just a few short days of rehearsals. Their performance was a wonderful reflection of the courage, perseverance, and excellence they demonstrated throughout the week.
“What I love about OrKidstra is the community. I love that camp gives us the chance to play music together with the other Hubs at OrKidstra.” – Owen, age 13, double bass, OrKidstra student for 8 years
The event also featured a special milestone for one of our Leaders-in-Training. Aspiring conductor Aiden stepped onto the podium to lead his fellow musicians, showcasing both his growing musicianship and the leadership skills he has developed during his time at OrKidstra.
“I’ve been coming to OrKidstra for 11 years and I love it here. I want to be a professional conductor, so this has been a momentous occasion for me—my first time conducting an orchestra.” – Aiden, age 16, trumpet, OrKidstra student for 11 years
Camp concluded with a visit to the Canada Science and Technology Museum, where students explored interactive exhibits, completed a museum-wide scavenger hunt, and discovered even more ways to learn through curiosity and play.
We are deeply grateful to the generous donors who make CAMP OrKidstra possible each year. Your support gives children and youth the opportunity to build confidence, develop lifelong friendships, strengthen their musical skills, and create memories they will carry with them for a lifetime.
CAMP OrKidstra is part of the Anne Taylor Summer Program, created in memory of former OrKidstra Board member Anne Taylor. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone whose generosity helps make this special program possible.
