Experience the Northwoods Jazz Camp: A Musical Journey
- May 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 4
Celebrate the Spirit of Jazz
More than just a music workshop, the Northwoods Jazz Camp is a celebration of community, creativity, and the timeless spirit of jazz. Whether you’re joining us as a player or simply wanting to enjoy the sounds each evening, the experience promises inspiration in every note.
A Legacy of Live Music in the Northwoods
Holiday Acres Resort has a long and proud history of hosting jazz in the Northwoods. Since 1971, we’ve welcomed legendary performers such as Buddy Rich, Woody Herman, the Count Basie Orchestra, the Duke Ellington Band, and Maynard Ferguson. This rich history has established the resort as a beloved destination for jazz lovers.
Our iconic Three Coins Lounge once featured regular live performances, from regional groups to impromptu jam sessions. These events turned quiet nights into unforgettable memories. The music did more than entertain; it became part of the resort’s identity. In 1986, we launched the Jazz Fantasy Camp, an adult camp offering a platform for aspiring musicians to learn, perform, and connect. That spirit continues today through the Northwoods Jazz Camp, an event that honors the past while nurturing the next generation of jazz artists.
A Camp Like No Other
The Northwoods Jazz Camp isn’t your typical workshop. It's more than just scales and sheet music; it’s about stepping into the heartbeat of jazz. Campers learn directly from a faculty of professional jazz musicians and thrive in a community where inspiration flows as freely as the music itself.
What to Expect:
Master classes for instrumentalists and vocalists.
Improvisation workshops to build confidence and spontaneity.
Listening sessions on the art of hearing jazz—both old and new.
Combo and big band rehearsals that culminate in nightly performances.
Every evening, music spills into the Three Coins Dining room with concerts open to the public. It's a chance to witness pros and students share the stage in spontaneous, electric performances. Advanced students even have the opportunity to sit in with the professionals, creating unforgettable nights of music under the stars.
The Perfect Setting for Creativity
What truly sets the Northwoods Jazz Camp apart is its idyllic setting. Holiday Acres isn’t merely a backdrop; it’s an integral part of the experience. From the warmth of the Courtyard Coffee Shop to the elegance of The Gallery and the picturesque views of the Three Coins Restaurant, students will practice and create in beautiful spaces.
Between sessions, campers can enjoy our resort amenities such as a heated indoor pool and sauna, scenic trails through the Northwoods, and the calming waters of Lake Thompson. It’s the perfect environment that invites you to pause, listen, and discover your creative rhythm.
All Are Welcome
Accessibility and inclusivity are among the many reasons the Northwoods Jazz Camp stands out. You don’t need years of experience to attend. It’s the perfect opportunity for anyone curious about jazz to dip their toes in the water.
Students and faculty mingle freely, sharing stories about life on the road, the legends of the big band era, and their own musical journeys. This isn’t a strict classroom-style setting. Some of the most memorable moments happen over breakfast, around the dinner table, or during casual hangouts at the bar. These unstructured moments contribute to the magic of the experience.
With only 25 to 28 students accepted, this camp maintains an intimate, close-knit feel. Whether you're here to grow your musicianship or simply indulge in jazz from a fresh perspective, you’ll leave with new skills, new friends, and a fresh spark of inspiration.
Join Us in the Celebration of Jazz
If jazz is in your soul—or even if it’s just piqued your curiosity—this camp beckons you. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity. Inquire today! We look forward to once more filling the pines with music, laughter, and the unmistakable rhythm of jazz.
📍 Northwoods Jazz Camp at Holiday Acres Resort
🎷 May 6–9, 2025
🎶 Evening concerts open to the public
🌲 All levels welcome—players and auditors alike
Follow us on social media or check back here for updates. Until then, keep the music alive—and we’ll see you in the Northwoods.
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