Song-to-Stage Camp at Carleton University Opens Registration
Ages 12 and up can sharpen songwriting and stage craft with the camp’s expert music staff!
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Program Overview
Carleton University’s Song-to-Stage Camp invites musicians aged 12 and older to a hands-on summer experience. Over the course of the program, aspiring songwriters and performers will work alongside award-winning instructors to develop original material, sharpen stage presence and master essential performance techniques. The camp caters to all skill levels—from beginners picking up their first chords to advanced artists looking to refine their craft. Both vocalists and instrumentalists are welcome in small-group sessions designed to offer personalized feedback and collaborative opportunities.
Instructor Spotlight: Kalle Mattson
One of the featured instructors this year is singer-songwriter Kalle Mattson, whose credits include multiple nominations at the Canadian Folk Music Awards and the direction of Carleton’s Singer-Songwriter Ensemble. Mattson’s recent Instagram posts reflect his commitment to music education. In March he shared details of a free concert at Carleton’s Kailash Mital Theatre, where his ensemble of student artists performed original songs to a packed house. Earlier, he celebrated his first-ever nomination for Vocal Group of the Year at the CFMA, underscoring his role as both a creative artist and mentor.
Mattson’s teaching style blends narrative-driven songwriting with strong melodic structures. Drawing on his latest work with his band SummerSets—whose debut double album “small town story” launched in June—he guides campers in crafting lyrics that balance personal authenticity with universal appeal. His hands-on approach covers everything from demo recording basics to fronting a live ensemble.
Participants in the Song-to-Stage Camp will benefit from Mattson’s real-world insights into the music industry, covering topics such as building a cohesive set list, engaging an audience and translating personal stories into compelling lyrics. Other visiting faculty include professional arrangers, stage coaches and recording engineers who will guide campers through songwriting exercises, live performance clinics and vocal or instrumental technique workshops.
Flexible Enrollment And Curriculum
Registration is now open via the link in the university’s official channel. The program welcomes middle schoolers, high school students, undergraduates, adults and seniors, making it one of the most inclusive music camps in the Ottawa region. Daily schedules mix group classes with one-on-one sessions, peer review circles and final showcase rehearsals. By the end of the camp, each participant will have the opportunity to perform original music in a live showcase setting—whether on an intimate recital stage or in a larger, auditorium-style environment.
The curriculum is divided into thematic modules: lyric writing and song structure, melody and harmony, arrangements for different instrumentations, vocal and stage coaching, and a practical segment on self-produced recordings. Campers can choose elective mini-workshops focusing on topics such as digital audio workstations, live sound mixing or social media promotion strategies for independent artists.
How To Register
To secure a spot, interested musicians should visit the registration link provided in the Carleton University bio. Early registrants may qualify for discounted fees, and scholarship opportunities are available for students demonstrating financial need or exceptional promise. Space is limited to ensure high instructor-to-student ratios, so prompt registration is encouraged. Parents and guardians will receive detailed orientation packets upon enrollment, outlining daily itineraries, equipment requirements and code of conduct guidelines.
Why Song-to-stage Matters
Music educators agree that camps offering focused songwriting and performance training can accelerate artistic growth more effectively than general music programs. By combining mentorship from industry-recognized professionals with peer-driven feedback, the Song-to-Stage Camp aims to foster creative confidence and technical proficiency. Alumni of the program have gone on to perform at folk festivals across Canada, secure recording deals and pursue higher education in music composition and performance.
For Ottawa’s music community, the camp represents a chance to cultivate the next wave of talent. Local concert promoters and studio owners often scout Song-to-Stage showcases for emerging artists to include in their lineups, giving campers real-world exposure before they even leave the program.
As summer approaches, Carleton University’s performing arts wing gears up to welcome a diverse group of musicians ready to write, rehearse and perform. With a blend of experienced mentors, a supportive learning environment and an end-of-camp showcase to celebrate each camper’s original work, the Song-to-Stage Camp promises a transformational experience for every participant.
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