The Jackson State University “Sonic Boom of the South” High School Band & Dance Camp is a week-long intensive educational experience for students and band directors. Students get an opportunity to learn from the JSU Band Staff and SBOTS (Sonic Boom of the South) Student Leaders while getting a firsthand view on what it takes to be a part of THEE FAMOUS Sonic Boom of the South. Not only will students learn instrumental techniques and marching methods but they will also learn about social and emotional growth, college readiness, and and overall have a great time. Band Directors will have an opportunity to learn from highly experienced music educators who have proven to be successful in their field. If you or your child is interested in JSU or just a great musical experience, this camp is for you!
General Information
- Date: June 8, 2025 - June 14, 2025
- Location: Jackson State University
- Application Time Frame: February 14, 2025 - May 14, 2025
- Grade/Age: Incoming 9th-Incoming College Students (Age 14-19)
JSU is committed to creating educational opportunities for all students however, this camp is not necessarily designed for beginner students with limited marching band experience.
- Cost: $500 - Residential Camper (meals and on-campus lodging are provided)
- Cost: $300 - Commuter Camper (meals are provided)
Basic Schedule
- Physical Training (PT)
- Breakfast
- Breakout Chamber - Large Ensembles/Sessions
- Lunch
- Indoor Marching Band Rehearsal
- Dinner
- Outdoor Marching Band Rehearsal
Camp Ensembles/Courses:
Drum Major Techniques: Designed to allow students to learn fitness concepts, conditioning techniques, basic marching styles, conducting, and leadership techniques to be successful. All drummajors participants must bring their instruments and participate in the marching band and a chamber ensemble. We do not isolate drummajors for the full duration of camp (they must play their instruments).
Woodwind Ensemble: Designed to introduce basic techniques and fundamentals, instrumental care, ideologies, and pedagogical approaches to instruments within the woodwind family.
Brass Ensemble: Designed to introduce basic techniques and fundamentals, instrumental care, ideologies, and pedagogical approaches to instruments within the brass family.
Percussion Ensemble: Designed to introduce basic techniques and fundamentals, instrumental care, ideologies, and pedagogical approaches to instruments within the percussion family.
Concert Band: Designed to give upper-level musicians to be exposed to appropriate literature and expand their musical experience in a large fully instrumented ensemble.
Dance Techniques: Designed to allow dancers to learn/enhance basic dance techniques while exercising and stretching to improve performance, and endurance and prevent injury.
Special Topics: An exploration of marching band techniques through lectures from the University Band Staff highlighting a few skills in learning how to prepare, organize, teach, and rehearse a band program.
OUR CAMP IS HARD WORK!
FAQs
Yes
Yes, as a commuter
Yes, they will and they will have to pay.
Residence halls will be determined
Toiletries, bedding for XL Twin beds, microwave, mini-refrigerators, air fryers, TV, video game consoles
It is preferred that students bring their own instruments including large instruments (sousaphones, drums, etc.) If a student is traveling by plane and has a large instrument, please contact us at jsubands@jsums.edu
Yes, meals will be provided (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
White T-shirt, blue shorts, white socks, and white shoes. Students will also need concert white(top)/black(bottom) attire for concert(s).
Yes, we take a vested interest in the safety of all participants. Students will be busy the majority of the camp.
Yes, there will be Q&A sessions along with a talent show!
After the June 1 deadline, this will include music as well
Concerts are Friday nights at 6 p.m. and the marching band performs on Saturday at 4 p.m.
Registration is Sunday at 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.; check-out will be Saturday at 11 p.m. The performance will be done by 5 p.m.
No, not by JSU.