Here are the frequently asked questions regarding Sounds of the South Band Camp:
Who is eligible to attend SOTS?
Students who play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument and were in grades 6, 7, or 8 for the 2024 - 2025 school year. Students must be in good standing with their band program which includes a positive behavior recommendation from the band director.
What's included in my camp fee?
Camp fees for the 2025 Sounds of the South Band Camp is $375.00. Included in this camp fee is the room (two people share a dorm room), meals, supervision, one camp t-shirt, one camp picture, and download access to the camp video. Also included in the fee is a limited health and accident insurance policy which will cover only the first $100 cost. Your personal insurance will cover the over $100 amount.
All final payments are due by May 1, 2025. After May 15, 2025, all deposits and payments become non-refundable.
What is the process for acceptance into SOTS Band Camp?
You apply on the camp application page. Camp applications are accepted on a first come, first serve basis.
When I receive your camp application, I will submit a recommendation form to your band director. All I'm asking is whether your child is in good standing behaviorally with the school and band program. I will continue to hold your child's spot while I wait for your band director's response.
When I receive a positive behavior recommendation, I will send you an invoice to pay your $200 deposit. You will also see your total and can pay the total amount at that time as well.
You will have 48 hours to return the $200 deposit to ensure that your student's place is held for camp. Failure to return the $200 deposit will allow other students to enroll.
When I receive your $200 deposit, your student has been accepted into Sounds of the South Band Camp. You will receive an email that will have the Camp Acceptance Packet and information concerning camp week. You will need to fill out the health and waiver form. This form is required to be submitted back to the office.
Max camp enrollment is 275 students. We have had a waiting list of students for the past several years.
What equipment should I bring to SOTS?
Bring your Band Instrument, Music Stand, and Any Additional Equipment you will need during camp week. For example, if you plan to participate in the talent show and need certain items, you should bring them. Be sure you have written your name on each item. Also, your instruments and other valuable items should be insured against damage or theft as Sounds of the South Band Camp LLC and Pearl River Community College are not responsible for items you bring to camp.
How should I dress at SOTS?
Casual clothing is desirable for dress and shoes/sandals must be worn at all times. No spaghetti straps, super short shorts, or crop tops are allowed at SOTS. Your tuition fee will cover the cost of one camp t-shirt. Additional shirts can be ordered if desired at $15 per shirt. You will wear your camp t-shirt for your camp picture and for the final concert.
What is housing like at SOTS?
Campers will be housed on the Pearl River Community College campus in air conditioned dorm rooms. Each dorm room consists of two beds and one restroom which includes the shower in each room. Campers will need to bring their own bed linens, towels, and toiletries. Campers that would like to room together should make the request on their camp application. The request in on page 4 of the application.
Who supervises the students at SOTS?
All campers are supervised by a highly motivated and knowledgeable staff of band directors and student helpers who are music majors pursuing a career in music education.
What are the rules of SOTS?
All of the rules and regulations of SOTS will be provided in the Camp Acceptance Packet email.
When is Check In and Registration?
Registration will begin at 12:45 p.m. Sunday, June 15th in the cafeteria of Pearl River Community College. There will be signs to help direct you into the campus as well as signs to help you find registration and housing on Sunday.
When can we pick up our child?
There will be a Celebration Concert on Thursday, June 19th in the Brownstone Auditorium. As soon as your child is finished on stage, you may head to the dorm to pick up your child's belongings.