Soundbone Gathering - Frequently Asked Questions
Instruction
What ages attend the Soundbone Traditional Arts Gathering?
When it started as the Vinland Music Camp in 2001, camp was primarily for children but over the years it has morphed into an intergenerational experience. We now welcome anyone 10 years and above with the majority being older adults. That said, we regularly have youth participate and it has been our experience that everyone enjoys the mix of ages during the week.
While the Gathering is open to all ages, though the minimum age to attend workshops is 10 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. Those under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult parent or guardian.
Do participants need to have some knowledge or experience in playing an instrument prior to attending?
The Soundbone Traditional Arts Gathering is for players of all abilities. Everyone from beginners to seasoned players are welcomed – to accommodate this most workshops have two or three levels, from beginner to advanced. It is likely that a variety of levels may participate in any class. Many classes need no experience at all! We encourage participants to try a new instrument (or dance, songwriting, storytelling, etc.) in addition to their main one. If you’d like some suggestions, check out our Recommendations page.
How many classes should I take?
Although there is no limit on the number of classes you can take, most people find that 4-5 selections are plenty as you will need time for practice and recreation. Classes are 45 minutes long and continue at the same time every day (Monday-Thursday). The lunchtime workshops are for one period only. Participants can change or add to their selections throughout the week.
Can I take private lessons at the Gathering?
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. Most rooms have three single beds, two of which are arranged bunk bed style. 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 Gathering?
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, and pay a facility fee $97.75 (incl tax) for the five days of the Gathering. There are no electrical or other services provided though RVers/tenters can use Max Simms Camp’s washroom facilities.
Lion Max Simms 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 are a vegetarian or eat gluten-free, please let us know on your registration form. There is an extra fee of $11.50/day (incl tax) for this menu choice. 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). A fridge is available for campers’ use.
Meal plans include supper on Sunday; breakfast, lunch and supper Monday through Thursday; and breakfast on Friday. No snacks/refreshments are included, but participants are encouraged to bring their own and perhaps enough to share.
Can participants staying offsite purchase their meals individually at Max Simms?
Meals can be purchased individually, preferably in advance by contacting info@soundbone.ca. Prices range from $13 to $22 per meal, plus tax.
Extra fee for gluten-free/vegetarian meals, per day/per person: $10.00 ($11.50 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.
• 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 the Gathering 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. Kindly check with your instructor before recording them. You can also bring 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 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.