Hoot Camp: A “Jammtastic” Success

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Debutants’ Hoot Camp: A “Jammtastic” Success

The inaugural Debutants’ Hoot Camp was a wonderful week of music, learning, and community—filled with workshops, guided jam sessions, and new friendships. Forty‑five young musicians from Fort Wayne, Warsaw, Kendallville, and surrounding areas began the week as strangers and finished as friends and musical collaborators.

Hosted by the Community Arts Academy at Purdue University Fort Wayne (PFW) and sponsored by the Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association (NIBGA) under its 501(c)(3) nonprofit umbrella, Hoot Camp welcomed students ages 10–18, from absolute beginners to advanced players.

Learning, Picking & Growing Together

Each day began with instrument‑specific instruction led by an outstanding team of educators:

  • Fiddle: Sean Hoffman & Lauren Blair

  • Guitar: Jon Swain & Kenny Taylor

  • Mandolin: Lynn Nicholson

  • Cello: Ellen Coplin

  • Banjo: Michael Earl Newsome

Walking through the music center, bluegrass filled the halls. Students learned two traditional tunes and three original Debutants songs, while also taking classes in:

  • Improvisation

  • How to join a jam session

  • Songwriting

  • Harmony singing

The result was a week of confidence‑building, collaboration, and hands‑on bluegrass education.

A Grand Finale Performance

The week concluded with a special concert at the Baker Street Centre, where students took the stage side‑by‑side with the Debutants. With more than 300 attendees packed into the room, the energy was electric.

The young musicians performed:

  • The traditional tune “Old Joe Clark,” complete with solos

  • Their own spirited version of “Little Liza Jane,” featuring newly written verses

  • Three favorite Debutants songs

Afterward, students handed the stage over to their instructors and joyfully sang and danced through an hour of music—an unforgettable ending to an incredible week.

Looking Ahead

“We are so thrilled and grateful for a full week of musical opportunities for youth made possible by our community of supportive musicians in the Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association. Keep your eye out for some new faces at festivals and jam sessions from Debutants’ Hoot Camp.”
— Ellen Coplin & Sean Hoffman, Hoot Camp Directors

Debutants’ Hoot Camp reflects NIBGA’s commitment to education, community, and the future of bluegrass music. We look forward to seeing these young musicians at festivals and jam sessions for years to come.

For information on future camps or youth programs, visit our website or follow NIBGA on social media.