Vinland Music Camp
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning
Is the Vinland Music Camp open to adults as well as children?
The Camp is open to all ages, though the minimum age to attend workshops is 8 years (exceptions are made to this limit for students who have attended a music program such as a Suzuki program for at least one year - please consult with the Director). Participation is usually divided between children and adults of all ages. Adults can attend on their own, or with their spouse/partner, children or grandchildren. Those under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult parent or guardian. It's been our experience that everyone enjoys the mix of age groups at Camp.
Do participants need to have some knowledge or experience in playing an instrument prior to attending?
The Vinland Music Camp is for beginners as well as seasoned players – most workshops have two or three levels, from beginner to advanced. We encourage participants to try a new instrument (or dance, songwriting, storytelling, etc.) in addition to their main one.
How many classes should I take?
Although there is no limit on the number classes you can take, most people find that 4-5 selections are plenty as you will need time for practice and recreation. Most classes are 45 minutes long and continue at the same time every day (Monday-Thursday). Some workshops are for one or two periods only. Participants can change or add to their selections throughout the week.
Can I take private lessons at camp?
Private lessons may be arranged with instructors, at their discretion and according to their schedule. Please discuss this with the individual instructor(s).
Accommodations
Accommodation at Lion Max Simms Memorial Camp is provided in six sections with 5 bedrooms each, with a variety of single and double beds and bunks. The Medical Centre has 8 additional bedrooms with single and double beds. Designed as a camp for special needs, the location is housed under one roof and is completely accessible to meet the physical needs of individuals availing of the facility.
Capacity 95 - all beds used and double beds used by 2 people; 24 top bunks
Capacity 66 - one person per double / single bed and without using top bunks.
Washroom, shower, bath facilities in each section
All participants in the same building; night security provided by camp staff
Bedding optional as requested, see rate information below.
Wi-Fi via Satellite Internet Access
All facilities are wheelchair accessible
Staff with first aid certification
Outdoor recreation area with swimming pool, basketball court and gazebo
Directions to Camp
Lion Max Simms Memorial Camp is about 10km off the Trans Canada Highway via the Bay d’Espoir Highway (Route 360) in Central Newfoundland. From the TCH, drive 6.5 km along Route 360 and turn right, proceed for 4.4 km and turn left.
Is it a requirement that all participants reside onsite during the Camp?
For those who need more comfortable accommodation than a camp setting can provide (such as a private bathroom) the Exploits River Motel and Restaurant is nearby (about 5km). You can also stay at Brookdale Country Inn & RV Park in Bishops Falls.
Camp participants are also permitted to stay on the Max Simms Camp grounds in their RV or tent free of charge for the duration of Vinland Music Camp. There are no electrical or other services provided, though RVers/tenters can use Max Simms Camp’s washroom facilities.
Camp Menu
Max Simms Memorial Camp provides meals such as pizza, chili, chicken, lasagna, and hamburgers for lunch; suppers will typically consist of meals such as pork chops, roast beef, turkey and fish. Staff will try to accommodate campers’ diets as best they can by preparing some meals separately. If you have special dietary needs (e.g. you are a vegetarian or diabetic), please let us know on your registration form. We also recommend that you discuss your diet with the camp cook when you arrive onsite. Grocery items are available in the community of Bishops Falls (a 10-minute drive from Camp) or Grand Falls (a 30-minute drive).
Can participants staying offsite purchase their meals individually at Max Simms?
Meals can be purchased individually, preferably in advance; or at the Vinland Music Camp office. The prices are:
Adults (19+) and youth (6-18 yrs)
Breakfast: $12 ($13.80 incl. tax)
Lunch: $15 ($17.25 incl. tax)
Supper: $18 ($20.70 incl. tax)
Total daily meals cost (adults and youth): $45 ($51.75 incl. tax)
Total 5-day cost: $225 ($258.75 incl. tax)
Children (ages 2-5 yrs):
Breakfast: $8 ($9.20 incl. tax)
Lunch: $10 ($11.50 incl. tax)
Supper: $12 ($13.80 incl. tax)
Total daily meals cost (children): $30 ($34.50 incl. tax)
Total 5-day cost: $150 ($172.50 incl. tax)
General Information
Camp Essentials to bring (please make a checklist)
• Pillow and either a sleeping bag or sheets/blankets. These can also be rented from the camp for a $5 +HST/day, payable upon arrival.
• Swim suit, towel, sunscreen, rain jacket, sun hat and fly repellent. Flip-flops for the shower may also be helpful.
• Children requiring medications should contact the camp nurse upon arrival.
• Flashlight and spare batteries.
• Warm clothing, such as a fleece jacket or woollen sweater, for around the campfire. (Note that synthetic clothing can be adversely affected by sparks.)
Musical Essentials
Bring your instrument(s), unless you have made specific arrangements for Vinland to provide them. Also, a three-hole binder with paper, pencils and an eraser are very useful. We operate a music store for the week of camp at which you can buy basic music supplies (picks, capos, rosin, strings, songbooks, etc.) so bring cash/cheque for these purchases.
Optional, but helpful, items to bring
A music stand, a digital recorder (or app on your phone), and music manuscript paper may be useful. Also, books of Newfoundland & Labrador music you are interested in learning.
Electronic Devices
Cell phone coverage and Wi-Fi is available. Please check with an instructor or the camp director or supervisor before recording concerts or classes. Please keep on silent-mode, any cameras or phones you use at Camp.
Allergies
Participants should inform us of any significant medical conditions that we should be aware of by filling out this information on the camp registration form, with special attention to life-threatening conditions such as peanut allergies. This medical information is considered private and only made available to our staff.