The Brampton Symphony Orchestra (BSO) announced the launch of the first ever BSO Youth Orchestra Summer Day Camp, which runs from Aug. 25 to 29 at Professor's Lake.

Under the musical direction of BSO principal conductor Robert Raines, students ages eight to 18 will participate in a range of activities including sectional and full rehearsals, master classes, recitals and recreation. Coaching staff, said Raines, includes certified teaching coaches from the Brampton Symphony Orchestra.

Also an audition

Raines said the idea was to bring together young musicians in a summer camp setting to make learning a more socialized event.

The camp will also serve as a "pre-audition" to assess the skills of those hoping to join the BSO Youth Orchestra in the fall.

"The BSO Youth Orchestra has only been around for a year and a half and it's just mushroomed," said Raines.

So far, 40 students have registered and there is space available for another 25. Positions for violin, however, have been filled. Otherwise, openings for all standard orchestral instruments are available, but students must have two years of instrumental instruction to be eligible to attend.

The cost for enrollment is $200, and the deadline for applications is Aug. 18.

The camp is a five-day session running 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and students are responsible for their own lunch.

The BSO Youth Orchestra Summer Day Camp is made possible through a grant from the Lois and Max Rice Fund at the Brampton and Area Community Foundation, said Raines.

To apply for the BSO Youth Orchestra Summer Day Camp call 905-488-9766 or visit www.bramptonsymphony.com.