Kendall Betts Horn Camp

by Nancy Joy

If there is such a thing as heaven on earth, it is the Kendall Betts Horn Camp. For those not familiar with KBHC, it is truly Kendall’s vision: two intensive weeks of horn playing and study with the finest faculty available, at the White Mountain School in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire.

In order to benefit fully from the instruction, participants are divided into groups based on their experience and begin each day with guided warm-ups, followed by a variety of master classes. Throughout the week, participants rotate through the faculty to ensure the important "connection" that will improve their playing is made. It is amazing how many different ways the same concept can be presented. Taking as many notes as possible became the goal for fear this great volume of information might otherwise be lost. The faculty always presented though-provoking questions, and I learned to be a better teacher simply by watching the best in action. From classes discussing breathing or Kopprasch etudes to others covering solo preparation, campers listen and absorb, learning from not from only master teachers but from others awaiting their chance.

Afternoons brought more master classes, excerpt classes and group ensemble rehearsals ranging from quartets to a massed choir involving all participants. These groups were coached or conducted by faculty members in preparation for the Saturday evening Hornathon, a public concert held at a local school.

Barry Tuckwell and Nancy Joy at the 1998 Kendall Betts Horn Camp

Evening activities included recitals featuring Kendall and the rest of the faculty accompanied by pianist, Steve Harlos. These programs were far-ranging, offering a natural horn night, a "clam" night, a demonstration about studio recording sessions with Jim Thatcher, and even Kendall and Steve sight-reading entire concertos. These programs always demonstrated the skill and ability of the faculty to the fullest.

The atmosphere at KBHC is one of sincere teaching and learning, beautiful scenery and wildlife, and good food and camaraderie. I have attended the past two camps and am now planning my third pilgrimage to the mountains for another incredible week of learning.

1998 KBHC Faculty: Kendall Betts, Founder and Director, Vince Barbee, Mary Bisson, Kris Hansen, Michael Hatfield, Greg Hustis, Peter Kurau, Soichiro Ohno, Jean Rife, Julie Schleif, Jim Thatcher, Barry Tuckwell.

1998 KBHC Staff: Heather Pettit, Kathryn Krubsack Buss, Bernhard Scully.