OBJECTIVES:
Be on point and support your team!!!
HAVE A GREAT SHOW!
Make sure campers join School Of Rock so they can continue rocking out (with you as their mentor)!
Be on point and support your team!!!
HAVE A GREAT SHOW!
Make sure campers join School Of Rock so they can continue rocking out (with you as their mentor)!
To execute a "perfect" summer camp show at School of Rock, interns need to focus on their attitude, handle logistics efficiently, set up the stage effectively, and actively engage during the campers' performances.
Keep this in mind: a "perfect" summer camp show is not just about the final result of the music. It truly doesn't matter if it sounds amazing (of course it shouldn't sound horrendous either). The journey and the impact you have on campers' experiences is what's the most important in the end.
Don't worry about what the parents are thinking either! Once a song starts, they are only paying attention to their campers on stage and whether or not they're smiling and having a great time. They WILL get upset if they see that you aren't helping or being encouraging to their kids though. Stay focused, maintain a positive attitude, and work together as a team to create a memorable and outstanding performance for everyone involved.
The rest of this page is about the key steps every intern needs to take to achieve a great show day!
Attitude & Preparation
Maintain a positive and enthusiastic attitude throughout the day
Review and practice your assigned parts or responsibilities
Remind campers to do the same!
Logistics & Organization
Arrive early to the venue and check in with the Camp Director
Assist with setting up the stage, including instruments, microphones, and sound equipment (aka "backline")
Coordinate with other interns and staff to ensure smooth logistics
Soundcheck & Technical Setup
Collaborate with the sound engineer/Camp Director/MD to ensure proper sound levels and quality
Test all microphones, instruments, and audio equipment
Troubleshoot and resolve any technical issues promptly before the show
Support & Encouragement
Assist campers with any last-minute questions or concerns
Provide positive feedback and encouragement to campers before and during their performances
Help campers with instrument changes, props/signs, or any other requirements (lyrics, tuning, drum kit adjustments, playing parts with them on stage, keeping the beat/conducting etc)
Engage & Energize the Audience
Be an enthusiastic and engaged audience member for every song
Applaud and cheer for each camper's performance
Create a supportive and energetic atmosphere to inspire all performers
Stage Transitions & Clean-Up
Assist with smooth transitions between performances, ensuring efficient stage changes
Clear the stage of any equipment or debris promptly after each performance (keep it safe & presentable)
Help with organizing and transporting equipment after the show, don't just leave
Celebrate & Highlight Camper's Achievements
Congratulate campers on their performances and celebrate their accomplishments
Find parents of campers and express the great time you had in working with their camper all week
Remind campers & parents that we rock ALL YEAR ROUND and that you hope to see them in the future
Reflect on the day's events and identify areas for improvement or future growth (at the next camp or next summer, etc)
Remember, executing an amazing show requires teamwork, dedication, and a positive mindset. By following these steps, you will contribute to creating a memorable and successful summer camp performance.
1. Instruments
Ensure all instruments needed for the performances are present and in working order
Check that each instrument is properly tuned and has fresh strings if necessary
Set up instrument stands or racks for easy accessibility
2. Amplifiers and Sound Equipment
Verify that all amplifiers, speakers, and microphones are functioning correctly
Connect instruments to the appropriate amplifiers and test for sound quality (line check)
Adjust volume levels & tones, and monitor sound balance (sound check)
3. Cables and Connections
Organize audio cables for each instrument and microphone, plug in according to Music Director
Ensure all cables are securely connected and free from potential damage
Double-check that cables are properly plugged into the appropriate inputs and outputs
4. Drum Kit
Assemble and position the drum set according to the needs of your campers/each performer
Adjust the height and angle of cymbals, snare drum, and toms
Verify that the kick pedal/hi-hat stand & clutch is in good working condition
Check ALL wing-nuts, feet, rack toms, floor tom legs, etc. to make sure they're tight before the show
Lightly tune any extra loose heads/lugs (see Camp Director/MD)
5. Stage Props or Decorations
Place any props or decorations needed for the performances in their designated spots
Ensure they are securely positioned and won't interfere with the performers
Do not block camper/performers' faces (for parent photos/videos)
6. Backline
Set up additional equipment like keyboards, extra amplifiers, or backup instruments, if required
Ensure these instruments are readily accessible for quick changes between songs
7. Safety Measures
Ensure all cables and equipment are properly secured and won't pose a tripping hazard
Tape down any loose cables or wires to prevent accidents (if tape is available)
Perform a final check of the stage area for any potential safety issues
Remember, collaboration with the technical team and fellow interns is essential for a successful stage setup. Work together, communicate effectively, and conduct thorough sound checks to ensure a seamless and professional performance.
Respectful Interactions: Treat all venue staff, volunteers, and fellow performers with respect and kindness. Be courteous when asking for assistance or directions, and ALWAYS SAY THANK YOU. Maintain a positive and professional attitude towards everyone you encounter.
Professional Demeanor: Present yourself in a professional manner throughout the event. This includes dressing appropriately (SOR Intern t-shirts), maintaining good posture, and being attentive and engaged during performances. Avoid distracting behaviors such as excessive phone use or side conversations. Show respect for the performers by giving them your full attention.
Support & Encourage: As an intern, you play a crucial role in creating a supportive and encouraging environment. Applaud and cheer for each performance, regardless of any technical or musical challenges. Offer positive feedback and compliments to the campers after their showcases, boosting their confidence and celebrating their hard work.
Gratitude & Appreciation: After the event, take a moment to express gratitude to the venue staff, volunteers, and anyone else who contributed to the success of the showcase. Thank them for their hospitality and support, showing appreciation for the opportunity to perform in their space. Leave the venue clean and organized, ensuring you leave a positive impression.
Practicing politeness and professionalism reflects well not only on yourself but also on School of Rock as a whole. By maintaining respectful interactions, a professional demeanor, and being supportive throughout the showcase, you contribute to a positive and memorable experience for everyone involved.
Before campers and parents just take off and think that we forget the whole week entirely... it's important to have something easy to say to each parent about the achievements of their campers, and understand that we truly actually care about having them join School Of Rock to become part of our community and our band.
If you can't think of any campers you truly would like to see join School Of Rock, then you don't need to say anything! But, if you feel like certain campers would fit right in or enjoy what we do... then go ahead and let them/their parents know!
Below is a very basic "script" or general outline that any intern can use at any point during the week (or right after shows). Keep in mind to be genuine and honest and speak how you normally would to your Music Director.
The most important thing is to be yourself!
Intern: Hey there! I hope [CAMPER NAME] had a great time at camp! I've really enjoyed working with them and am very proud of their performance today!
Parent: Yes, they loved it!
Intern: That's awesome! Just wanted to let you know we do these kinds of programs all year long for kids just like [CAMPER NAME]. They can learn to play an instrument, join a band, and rock out on stage. I'm also in the ____ program myself and we have a blast. I've made a ton of great friends and played some really great shows. Everyone here is super cool and supportive.
Parent: That sounds great. How can we sign up?
Intern: It's easy! Just talk to our Music Director or call the school. They'll help you choose the perfect program for [CAMPER NAME] to help them get started on their musical journey.
Parent: Is there anything else we need to know?
Intern: Not really, just that it's a really cool place where [CAMPER NAME] can grow their love for music. I've had a great time here as well, so I hope that [CAMPER NAME] could get a chance to be a part of that too. We might even end up playing on stage together one day!
Parent: That's wonderful. We'll definitely look into it.
Intern: Fantastic! I can't wait to see them rocking out with us!
Parent: Thank you for the information.
Intern: You're welcome! Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions. Have a great day! Hope to see you guys soon!