The popular event will take place at St James’ Primary School in Muswellbrook during the school holidays on Monday and Tuesday, September 23 and 24.

Now in its ninth year, the camp has established itself as an important affair on the musical calendar in the Upper Hunter.

It offers musicians an opportunity to develop their skills with a special guest conductor, professional orchestral musicians and tutors, and experience the joys and challenges of playing with others in a large ensemble.

The camp has grown in popularity and now attracts participants from Sydney, Mudgee and Tamworth in addition to the Hunter region, so locals are encouraged to apply now to secure their place, with applications closing on Friday, August 23.

This year’s guest conductor is prominent Sydney-based freelance musician, Robert Harris.

2013 will be Mr Harris’ third visit to conduct for the Orchestra Camp.

The orchestral section caters for players of all orchestral instruments with a minimum playing standard of third grade AMEB or equivalent.

The camp will again include a junior strings section, led this year by Tanya Mee.

It allows for students of all ages with a playing standard of preliminary to second grade AMEB or equivalent to also participate and develop their orchestral skills.

Other tutors at the camp, including current and former teachers of the UHCM, are Trevor Mee, Jennifer Kershaw, David Cooper, Alison Murphy, Steven Lavis, Janelle French, Catherine Sheng, Dorit Herskovits and Trish O’Hearn.

Fees are $70 per player, with a discount of $5 for additional family members.

This includes two full days of rehearsals and sectional tutorials, morning and afternoon tea and lunch both days, and participation in a concert at the camp’s conclusion.

For all enquiries and registrations, contact camp director Jennifer Kershaw at the UHCM on 6541 4888 or email jennifer_kershaw@uhcm.com.au