Frequently Asked Questions

What if my student is advanced?

For the best camp experience, we strongly recommend that our campers stay with their peer group.

Is the camp safe?

Short Answer: yes!

Long Answer: All camp activities from rehearsals to meals to rec time are supervised by professionally trained and certified teachers and Camp Calvin staff. The counselors to camper ratio at ASTA Camp is 1:7-8, and camper are with adults throughout the entire day until lights out in the evening. Counselors’ rooms are located every 3-4 rooms in each hallway.

Does my child need their own instrument?

Yes! The camp does not provide instruments.

Can my child still take all their medicine?

Upon check-in we do a full review with each individual parent and student as to their medical needs. We keep all medicines in a secure and individually labeled container and do a 'medicine call' every morning, before each meal, and before bedtime. Items such as inhalers or epi-pins that parents are comfortable leaving with students can be kept with the student at all times if necessary. All other pills and medicines are kept by the staff not only for the safety of your child but for the safety of all the students.

What are the facilities like?

The main Calvin Center conference center has two beds in each room, with its own bathroom, sink, shower, desk and air conditioning controls. For our larger sessions, some of our campers will be placed in the Geneva Lodge, which is adjacent to the conference center. These rooms have bunk beds and house 4 to 6 campers. These rooms also have their own bathroom and sink.

How are meals handled? My child has special dietary needs.

Meals are cafeteria style with an entree, a selection of vegetables and fruits, and desserts available at most meals (desserts not included at breakfast!). We are able to accommodate most dietary needs, so please make sure you include these on your registration form!

Is my child allowed to have a device at camp?

While we do not prohibit electronic devices, we do ask that campers limit what they bring to camp so they can have the full camp experience without the distraction of a device. Phones are allowed, but we ask that campers keep their phones in their rooms.

Why does the registration form ask for a social security number?

Social Security Numbers are used only for verification of insurance in the unlikely event that we were unable to reach you during an emergency at a hospital. We've never needed one, hopefully never will, but it's a standard item on all medical release forms. You may leave it blank if you wish but keep your cell phone turned on!

What is a day at camp like?

Our camp days vary from day to day, but we make sure to always balance musical instruction and camp-like activities. Below is a sample schedule from a day at camp.

8:00 - 8:45 AM | Breakfast
9:00 - 9:20 AM | Wake-up/Warm-up
9:30 - 10:45 AM | Orchestra Rehearsal
11:00-11:45 AM | Music Class
12:00-12:45 PM | Lunch
1:00-1:40 PM | Sectionals
2:00-3:30 PM | Pool Time/Canoe/Snack/Recreation
4:00-4:50 PM | Orchestra Rehearsal
5:00-5:45 PM | Dinner
6:00-6:45 PM | Chamber Groups
7:00-7:45 PM | Student Recital and Chamber Night
8:00 – 9:45 PM | Hayride and Campfire
10:00 PM | Room Check
10:15 PM | Lights Out!