Camp Encore

Camp Encore is a week-long summer camp where participants sing, play, and learn about music. The camp includes outside activities and chances to explore visual art, as well as past exploration in dance, art, drumming, steel pans, guitar/uke, recorder, keyboard, and violin. The session runs Monday through Friday, June 9–13, 2025, from noon to 3:00pm, with a Demonstration Concert on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 6:00pm.

• Ages: 3–12 years old
• Schedule: Week-long camp, Monday–Friday, June 9–13, 2025, noon–3:00pm, with a Demonstration Concert on June 12, 2025
• Price: Tuition: $180

The Pre-K/Jr. Camp Director for ages 3–4 is Lilly Corrigan. Jr. Camp Directors for campers entering grades K–2 are Molly Witt and Lena Burke. The Sr. Camp Director for grades 3–6 is Ann Tucker, and the Art Director is Athena Zentefis.

Encore’s mission is to cultivate the innate musical abilities within each individual and to provide a welcoming and nurturing environment to all who learn and teach there. Encore Music Academy states that music is extraordinary and that music can empower change, inspire hope, and build community, and that all people, all ages, and all abilities can experience the life-changing power of music. The organization is local, community-oriented, and focused on serving McHenry County, with community outreach through free concerts and events.

Camp Encore is part of a program that offers need-based financial aid to families and individuals, with $40,000 given in tuition assistance every year, and tuition covering only 70% of Encore Music Academy’s total cost for each musician to be part of its programs. The program notes that there are limited spots or a wait list available.

Parents and participants have shared feedback such as, “Finding Encore has been the best thing we have done to help our kids grow musically… It’s been a fabulous experience for both of our kids both in musical ability and socially with like-minded musicians,” from the Swanson Family. Another parent, Emily Holland, states, “Encore is a wonderful organization… Our community is so blessed to have such talented and dedicated teachers. My children love summer music camp, and look forward to choir each season!” An Encore Youth Choir alum, Aidan O’Connor, reports developing “fundamental musicianship that serves me daily” and describes Encore as “a community of singers and friends for life.” Adult choir member Jenny Oberbillig shares that she has sung with Voices in Harmony for 23 years, “wrapping myself in the harmonies and lyrics of beautiful songs while singing with friends who have become family.”

Last updated January 11, 2026.