SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - Innovative multi-instrumentalist Carmen Braden's creative risks have sparked artistic growth.

She developed her unique talents by challenging her assumptions about music in school and on stage. The recent Acadia University music composition grad and performing artist is encouraging other young musicians to explore their own artistic potential this summer.

Vocalist Roya Yazdanmehr participated in the music camp at Northern Arts and Cultural Centre last summer. She said the experience helped build her confidence as a performer. She now sings jazz standards on stage with her new band, the Red Fox Quartet. - NNSL file photo

Braden will direct her second annual summer music camp at Northern Arts and Cultural Centre from July 23 to 26. Youths with a year of experience on any instrument are invited to expand their creative limits at the camp, which is divided into programs for Grades 9 to 12 in the evenings and Grades 5 to 8 in the afternoons.

While all participants should be proficient in their chosen instrument, reading music is not a required skill for this program.

"The focus of the camp is not to learn how to play an instrument, but to use young people's existing musical skills to explore musical expectations, apply creativity and take some risks," Braden explained.

The senior participants will engage in improvisation workshops with a focus on jazz and contemporary genres. A composition component addresses 20th century classical, pop and jazz styles, with opportunities for small collaborations along the way.

The experimental exercises help the musicians to discover new ways to appreciate and approach their music, Braden said, adding the camp is inclusive and noncompetitive.

The younger participants will blend music and visual art with a basic introduction to composition and improvisation. They will also uncover rhythms in the natural and urban environment and invent their own instruments using recycled materials.

Last year vocalist Roya Yazdanmehr participated in the senior camp. She concentrated on her vocals, but also brought a traditional African jembe and embira with her.

Several visiting musicians presented small clinics on fiddle, rap poetry and other idioms.

"It was a dynamic experience," Yazdanmehr said. "It was an interesting way to learn how to listen and work with other musicians. I definitely had more confidence and felt more comfortable improvising. It was challenging from different perspectives. I highly recommend it to music students who are open to exploration and getting rid of fears that can hold you back."

Since taking the camp, Yazdanmehr has stepped on stage to perform as a soloist and with several ensembles, including her new jazz band, the Red Fox Quartet. She and her band mates are booking club gigs this summer.

"The experience gave me some momentum to continue to perform," she said.

Throughout the camp, all participants collaborate on a brief public performance, to be presented at the end of the program.

All instruments are welcome. A keyboard and drum kit are available for loan at the camp. Braden said she will do her best to supply other instruments for participants who need them if she has advance notice.

Deadline for applications is July 10. Space is limited. For more information, contact Braden at carmenbraden@gmail.com.