20 Years · 2006–2026
History of Leahy Music Camp
What began as three days at a lakeside resort has grown into a worldwide gathering of musicians. This is the story of two decades of Leahy Music Camp.
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2006
The very first Leahy Music Camp at Viamede Resort, July 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. In just four years, we outgrew the space and moved to a larger facility that could house up to 300 participants.
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2010
Lakefield College School — the Camp’s home since 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. 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.
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2020
Our first-ever Online Music Camp, 2020. Leahy Music Camp Goes Digital
In 2020, we had to cancel our in-person gathering because of Covid. Though we were 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!
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2024
A packed house as the Music Camp returned in person, July 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 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!
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2026
Celebrating 20 Years!
So many people are responsible for this milestone — namely, the participants who showed up year after year. They brought their music, talent, friendship, generosity, and enthusiasm, and a light that encouraged us to keep holding the Music Camp every summer. They are the reason it began, and the reason it still exists.