Operating a Safe, Successful Music Camp

• Published in: The Flutist quarterly Vol. 43; no. 4; pp. 36 - 38
• Main Author: Kirkpatrick, Linda
• Format: Magazine Article
• Language: English
• Published: Santa Clarita National Flute Association 01.07.2018
• Subjects: Background checks; Camps; Curfews; Festivals; Flute music; Liability insurance; Personal health; Safety; United States > US; Maryland
• ISSN: 8756-8667

The most important task of an administrator who operates a music camp, retreat, or festival is to ensure that all participants, including staff members, are safe during the duration of the event. Expected protocol regarding interaction between staff and participants should be defined in writing, as deemed by the camp operator. All staff members, whether they are volunteers or paid, should have a criminal background check through the state where the event is held. State health departments provide guidance pertaining to licensing, fees, certification, and heal plans as well as rules and regulations for running a camp. Most states require inspections of the grounds where the camp is held and will enforce strict laws pertaining to housing, meals, health, and medication requirements and supervision of after-hours activities, sch as swimming. All campers are required to submit forms noting personal health history and medications before attending the event. Lists of camper rules, regulations and policies and policies for counselors and faculty are provided.