History of Leahy Music Camp
2006 — Founding of Leahy Music Camp
Leahy Music Camp started as a response to numerous requests for lessons in the music and dance of our group Leahy. We play music that is rooted in the Celtic traditions of our heritage and influenced by the modern styles of today.
We set aside three days in July 2006, to welcome a small group of students from across Canada and the United States. With 10 instructors, these very passionate students, and the beautiful facilities at Viamede Resort, our Music Camp was born. We couldn’t have been more grateful…to the people who attended and the people who helped us at Viamede, build what would become the foundations of Leahy Music Camp. In 4 years, we outgrew the space and had to move to a larger facility that could house up to 300 participants.
2010 — Moved to Lakefield College School
In 2010, we moved the Music Camp to Lakefield College School, just a five‑minute drive from where we grew up. This world‑class campus—an international boarding school for much of the year—gave new shape and opportunity to the Music Camp experience, with its state‑of‑the‑art facilities and picturesque surroundings. It is a world unto itself, surrounded by the best of nature and equipped with creative spaces in which to learn, play, make, and share music. We are beyond grateful to have such a beautiful place to host everyone who joins us for Music Camp each summer.
2020 — Leahy Music Camp Goes Digital
In 2020, we had to cancel our in-person gathering because of Covid. Though we were very disappointed, we had a fantastic experience with our first ever Online Music Camp. It was an exciting opportunity to connect with people from around the world and make music in a whole new way! Though we missed the “in-person” musical exchange, we experienced the valuable options that technology provides.
2024 — Leahy Music Camp Returns
After a three-year hiatus, the Music Camp resumed in July 2024. We couldn’t have been more excited or grateful. The Covid restrictions were lifted and everybody was able to gather once again. It was an unbelievable feeling to meet old and new friends alike – in person!
2026 — Leahy Music Camp Celebrates 20 Years!
There are so many people who are responsible for this milestone…namely, the many participants who showed up over the years to join us and everybody in attendance. They not only brought their music, talent, aspirations, friendship, generosity, and enthusiasm, but a light that encouraged us to continue holding the Music Camp every year. They are the reason the Music Camp began and the reason it still exists.