Over three days this October half-term, more than 140 young musicians came together for the Camden Music Holiday Course – and what a celebration it was! From first-timers to seasoned regulars, students filled the building with music, laughter and energy, culminating in two uplifting concerts that showcased their progress and passion.

For our Junior Concert, the Studio Hall buzzed with excitement as seven groups took to the stage in a lively 45-minute performance. Audiences were treated to a brilliant mix of the familiar and the unexpected, with classics like London Bridge is Falling Down and What Shall We Do with the Drunken Sailor sitting alongside crowd-pleasers such as The Addams Family and the Strictly Come Dancing theme – very à la mode! Beautiful renditions of Ode to Joy, Don’t Forget My Old Shipmates, Adele’s Easy on Me, and Paramore’s Hard Times added depth and variety to the programme.

The young performers brought joy and commitment to every note. Megan, part of the percussion group, shared:

“Everyone is really nice and the tutors are good at their job! I used to not be very good at percussion but through these courses I’ve really improved.”

Bea, attending for the first time, said:

“This is my first time here and I’ve learnt a lot about reading notes 😊.”

And Maggie, from Superblast, proudly declared:

“I’ve mastered the art of dynamics, woohoo!”

After the Junior Concert, many families made their way to the Main Hall for the Senior Concert, which opened with the newly named String Collective performing an ambitious programme including Walking in the Air from The Snowman. The KS3 Brass and Woodwind group followed with a spirited version of The Addams Family theme, bringing smiles all around.

The afternoon continued with standout performances from the Camden Youth Orchestra, who played excerpts from Haydn’s Symphony No. 104, the Percussion Ensemble, Holiday Voices directed by Ella with Ricky on guitar, and the Guitar Group. The Philharmonic Band closed the concert with energetic renditions of Music from Slumdog Millionaire, Eye of the Tiger, and Easy on Me, lifting the roof and leaving everyone feeling inspired.

Ruby, a member of CYO, summed it up perfectly:

“I love playing in my group; it’s challenging and fun. The Holiday Course is a great place to meet other musicians and see my friends.”

James, also attending for the first time, added:

“I’ve had a great time. I’m really looking forward to the next Holiday Course.”

“The concert was so lovely – I always have to stop myself from crying at these things! It’s incredibly moving to see the children transformed through music. I’m so grateful my child could be part of it. They come home so happy and confident. Thank you to everyone involved for making it all happen.”

Parent Quote

Huge thanks go to all the tutors, organisers, and of course, the brilliant young musicians who made the course so special. It was a true celebration of Camden Music’s values—creativity, community, and joy. We are looking forward to our next Holiday Course in the February half-term.

#WeMakeMusic

Camden Music offers a wide range of exciting holiday groups for young musicians of all levels and interests. Whether you’re into R&B and soul vocals, classical strings, guitar, woodwind, brass, or percussion, there’s something for everyone.

Groups like Camden Holiday Voices, Philharmonic Band, Holiday Guitars, and the SuperGroups provide opportunities to develop skills, make music with others, and have fun during the holidays. Many groups are open to those who’ve been learning for just a term, while others suit more experienced players.

Our next Holiday Course will be from 13 to 15 February 2026

Visit the Camden Music website or contact the team to find out more and sign up!