Are TCS attendees ever left unsupervised?
Attendees of TCS are supervised 24 hours a day and not permitted to go out on their own.
How are the students supervised?
The ratio of students to staff is 1 staff person per every 5 students (1:5 ratio)
Are there lifeguards at pool and at beaches?
Most all beachs and pools we visit have lifeguards.
Is there camp/campus security?
Dorm facilities generally have security onsight. Our student counselor ratio is always 1:5.
Do the counselers know CPR?
Several staff persons at TCS are trained in CPR
What is the age range of students?
The mean age is 15 years old, the majority of students are 14-16 years of age
How old do you have to be to attend the program?
We have found that 12 is the ideal age to begin attending TCS, however in some cases 11 year olds have been allowed to attend if showing maturity/talent.
What if you’re just learning to play your instrument?
Students are placed into bands that can accommodate their current stage of musical development
What level do you need to play at for the academy?
We do not have an “instrument proficiency level” requirement for our program and have students at all levels. Generally students have been playing 1-2 yrs and have a basic grasp of their instrument and music theory. Our focus is primarily on the creative process through collaboration through the writing of original music at what ever level the students are currently proficient. Based on the registration questionnaire and any video they submit we place them in bands accordingly.
Do you allow parental visits?
Parents are welcome to visit at anytime, we just ask that you notify the program director in advance.
Do you provide transportation?
Transportation to and from our program is not included in the registration cost. During the program and for our tour week transportation is included in the cost of the program.
How many students are there?
Programs are limited to 35 attendees to maximize the quality of the experience, an average program size is 25.
How do I register for the program?
You can register online or by mailing in a completed registration application
How do I pay my child’s tuition?
You can pay by major credit card, check or wire transfer
What should I pack my son/daughter for camp?
We suggest bringing at least one weeks worth of clothing as laundry facilities are provided. For tour we ask that you send a small bag or backpack to bring on the bus as space can be limited for instruments and luggage. (See our “What to Bring” section)
Is the tuition refundable?
Deposits are not refundable. In most cases tuition is not refundable. In the case that a program is canceled by TCS full refunds on deposits and tuition would be issued.
Are the counselors musically trained?
Counselors are generally multi instrumentalists who are currently writing and performing in live bands.
Is there vegetarian/vegan food options for my child while at camp?
Yes, we can accommodate special dietary needs and in extreme cases there may be additional costs. Please contact us for additional information.
What does my child do with their medication while at camp?
Students are not allowed to keep any medication or prescriptions in their room. All medication must be given to the program director on arrival.
How long has The Collective Sound been around?
TCS founded by Zac Smith in 1998 at CSU, Chico in California (USA). To this day he remains the operating executive director.
Do the students have to audition?
Auditions are not required but highly recommended as they are used for band placement. It is important for program directors to have a good sense of the ability level and personality of attendees as band assignments are made before arriving on campus.
How do you choose what band students are in?
Students are placed by the answers given on the registration application and by their audition videos. Considerations are age, interests, ability, and personality.
Are boys and girls separated during camp?
Boys and girls are separated by building or floor and are not allowed in each others rooms under any circumstances.
