Elite Music Camps Ltd Reviews 158

An Absolute 5 Star Experience, a week whereby your Heroes become good friends 😎 Everything perfectly organised, accommodation 'top notch', best food, friendly, professional, inspirational and a beautiful location.....I'm already booking onto next year's camp, as soon as the new course dates are available 🙏 Do it! Do it! A perfect experience.....Thank you both Snakey & Johnny for another memorable week!! ❤️

I very rarely leave reviews, in fact this is only ever my third one where I have "put pen to paper". But I have just returned from this cornet camp and I must say what a FABULOUS experience from start to finish it has been, and to be honest I am still buzzing. In fact 5 stars are really not nearly enough to rate this unique course. There is absolutely nothing to fault about any aspect of this week away. Having been accepted on this cornet camp, Johnny ensured all pertinent information was provided by means of E-Mails and phone calls if required.
From the moment I landed at Malaga to the moment I left, I can genuinely say every aspect of my week away was just incredible.
On arrival to the villa, which is situated in a most glorious and stunning location of the beautiful Sierra Nevada, Angie immediately made everyone very welcome into her wonderful home. She really is the most amazing and lovely host I have ever met. Absolutely nothing was too much trouble for her and she ensured that we were well catered for, be with it the food at breakfast and lunch or providing blankets of an evening whilst sitting outside by the pool after our evening meals. The evening meals were actually prepared by a lovely mother and her daughter who came to the villa every evening with a great selection of delicious home cooked food. (Except Thursday, I will come to that shortly)
Johnny is a legend and amazing trumpet player and such a humble person and gentleman. I have felt extremely privileged to have spent a week in his company, be that around the villa or when we were out and about. What a fabulous host also.
To spend a week with Tom Hutchinson as your cornet tutor is just an unbelievable experience that I cannot find any words that can actually describe it or do it any justice. Not only is he an awesome cornet player, he is such a genuine chap. He made every part of the course really enjoyable and delivered it in such a way that it met the right level for everyone. The lessons in the morning were spent improving all aspects of playing, from long tones to articulation, vibrato to scales to everything else. There was also ensemble rehearsals to prepare for a mini concert at the end of the week. The whole week was well structured with Tom ensuring all of our playing needs were addressed. He is really great to get on with and quickly makes you feel at ease. He certainly helped me loads in many ways. The afternoons were spent with one to one lessons with Tom. All I can is WOW. Thank you very much Tom.
There were 5 other wonderful players on the camp whose company was second to none and who throughout the week were truly supportive and great fun to be around. We were all off the same mind set, and we soon became comfortable in each others company.
On the Wednesday afternoon there is a break from playing, with the opportunity to go on a walk with Johnny who has a great local knowledge. This is optional and there is definitely no pressure to partake in this activity, however it definitely is worth the effort with plenty of photo opportunities and an ice cold beer en route!!
Thursday evening there is a trip into Granada with Johnny sharing his local knowledge and history facts whilst walking around the City. A fascinating evening, ending up with a superb meal at an amazing restaurant overlooking the stunning Alhambra Palace.
My partner, although a player himself went as a non player. He thoroughly enjoyed his time there, chilling and reading his books around the pool. He was well included by all, with Angie and Johnny being very accommodating and making sure he got the most of his stay.
Thank you all so very much for making this such a FABULOUS week and SUPERB experience.
I would definitely RECOMMEND this course, you will not be disappointed.
I am definitely hoping to be lucky enough to return next year. I cannot wait for the date to be published. Would love to see you all again.
PS. Johnny's book is a GREAT read. Check it out. Has the title "Blown It!!"

Just back from my 2nd Cornet camp with Tom. It was a great week, location, food and Johnny and Angie are the best. Tom is a great teacher and role model, who I consider to be a friend. As for my fellow students, what can I say, banding buddies...

From airport pickup to farewell, this was truly the experience of a lifetime. Johnny and Rob were exceptional hosts—great food, a beautiful evening in Granada, and a charming house in a perfect setting. Johnny attended to every detail, and Rob’s teaching gave me real confidence in my playing. I connected with others in the group and loved the hike. Could not recommend it more.

I’m not sure I can top the reviews of the five other participants on my week of horn camp but agree with every word. What a wonderful experience! I arrived feeling rather despondent about my playing, not making progress (and not practicing enough) and left enthused, excited and determined to commit to regular practice. At band practice last night I am convinced I was playing better too!!!
Snake and Johnny were great teachers, inspiring, patient and encouraging, and we covered all sorts of areas from breathing, richness of sound, quality of playing, vibrato and other techniques, ear training, scales, improvisation, organising your practice sessions, mental issues getting in the way, and much, much more.
We were all at different stages of playing but with a common goal, to improve our playing. Within a short time we had bonded and everyone was lovely, supportive, fun, enthusiastic. I hope we’ll all stay in touch.
The house was fantastic, with swimming pool and a terrace above the house where we gathered each morning to greet the sun (along with the neighbours cockerels), look over the valley and hills around and do breathing exercises with Snake. The food was wonderful and the atmosphere relaxing and nurturing.
I return to the U.K. and everyday life after this amazing week with a new determination to improve and the confidence that I can! Missing you all and the Spanish sunshine. I do hope to return one day.

Wow what a wonderful week! I am still on a high 😊
Not sure I can do the experience justice in words, but here goes.
Firstly if you are wondering whether to go to Horn Camp do it, you won’t regret it - it’s amazing!
The teaching from both Snake and Johnny is gentle, nurturing, encouraging, and supportive. They both have the ability to judge where your playing is at and guide you to the next steps, whatever they are for you. Wonderful!
The group is small and because of the ethos and values of the camp, a trusting and safe space to play in-front of others is created immediately. I have enough practice material to last me for months and possibly years as the focus is on the quality of each note and playing beautiful music.
The house is set in a glorious location and Johnny and Snake can’t do enough to make you feel at home. Nothing is too much trouble. We all share meals together and down time together. Truly joyful in every way.
The camp is brilliantly organised from the first few emails after signing up to the information about getting the transfers from the airport, before you leave.
The weds afternoon walk is brilliantly timed as is the Thursday evening in Granada.
The food was wonderful and caters for all needs.
Thank you so so much Johnny and Snake I can’t wait to come back.

an amazing experience - Snake and Johnny were so welcoming, sharing their knowledge, talents and experience. Food was amazing - and fully catered for vegetarian and vegan too, all in a wonderful setting. Learnt so much, lots to take home and master!

Wow - what a wonderful week. I’m still buzzing. I have come away with a clear path towards achieving what I need to improve in my playing and a stack of excellent resources to help me on my way. The expertise of the tutors was utterly inspiring and the positivity and ‘can do’ encouragement spurred every member of this course to play at their best. In such a beautiful, welcoming, nurturing and supportive environment one cannot fail to feel safe enough to play out, experiment with ideas and perform as never before. Enriching on so many levels. I am spurred on to get my playing to the next level so I can return for more.

I really need more than 5 stars to rate this camp! It has genuinely been one of my life best experiences- and I’ve had some good ones!! Watching Snake play live on many occasions was why I wanted to play saxaphone in the first place so to get the opportunity to have a week of his incredible tuition has been both amazing and a privelage. Additional sessions from Johnny, which I didn’t expect, were also invaluable and confidence building - playing with musicality, top tips on practice strategies etc.
I was very anxious on arrival, as I’ve only been playing for a year and was quickly aware that others had 20+ years under their belt. However the other students really added to the experience and were exceptionally supportive and encouraging. Snake and Johnny have a great ability to adapt training to individuals and quickly ascertain learning styles. There is also a mixture of group and individual sessions. They were on hand 24/7 and the atmosphere was one big and very happy family.
Apart from the teaching - the villa with its pool is beautiful and sits in the hills above the lovely village of Monochil. Morning yoga and breathing exercises got the day off to a great start.Meals were incredible and a well stocked beer, wine and other drinks fridge was on hand. A well placed break mid week for an incredible walk through the Los Cahorras gorge was just stunning and a trip out on the penultimate night for a walk around Granada followed by a meal in a lovely restaurant overlooking the Alhambra.
Final great highlight, for which we all felt totally privileged, was our own Snake and Johnny concert.
I have come away buzzing with enthusiasm and excitement with a much greater focus and sense of direction.
I can’t thank Snake and Johnny enough and so look forward to a future visit.
Thankyou Thankyou Thankyou.

Just returned from my third horn camp led by Snake Davis and Johnny Thirkell....outstanding, again, on all fronts. A wonderful break in a well appointed house in a gorgeous area of Spain; excellent food and drink; an engaged and fun group; outstanding tuition and inspiration from Snake and Johnny. Highly recommended.

What a fantastic experience. Johnny and Snake have the ability to take your playing to the next level (or higher !). They share their extensive knowledge and help you find your pathway to achieve your goals. They provide expert tuition in a very supportive and safe environment. Participants of varying skill levels came together and encouraged each other from Day 1. Everyone was a winner and we had fun !

My own aims related to improvisation and playing by ear. I feel each skill has taken a 'quantum leap' and I have been given the toolkit to further progress and enhance my musical journey.

I was joined at the villa by my non-playing partner who thoroughly enjoyed the week. She was able to relax by the pool with a good book or walk into nearby Monachil, and was also welcomed as part of the group. The superb location in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada only adds to the overall package (as does the quality of the food and drink).

I thoroughly enjoyed my week with these guys and am so glad I came. I learned so much about my playing and how I feel about my music. I was worried I was a fraud as haven’t had a lesson in 30 years but these guys helped instil such confidence in my abilities and overall mindset.

So the music is fab but also it was an amazing break away with beautiful accommodation, amazing food and so lovely to connect with fellow musicians all on their own musical journeys. I also felt very privileged to be taught by such fantastic musicians whose patience and understanding knew no limits.

If you are thinking about this course just go for it. I promise you won’t regret it for a second.

Johnny and Snake have devised the perfect blend of relaxation and music. Nurturing a warm and safe environment to make friends, ask any questions you have and experiment with your instrument.

I (saxophone) attended with my partner (trumpet) with high expectations which were massively exceeded.

Johnny and Snake are exceptional musicians and teachers. They tailor their sessions to you - you are the captain of the ship and they are there to support you on your journey.

I chose Horn Camp because I felt I had hit a ceiling in my musical journey. During the course of this week I have fallen back in love with my instrument and can’t wait to get started.

Horn Camp has changed our approach to music; it equipped us with the tools and knowledge needed to reach the next level of our playing, which is a truly liberating and exciting feeling. We have also left with memories and friends for life.

If you’re considering becoming a Horn Camper, 100% do it - it is the best decision you will make!

My first bass camp with Paul Turner hosted by Johnny Thirkell in Spain and I had a great week.

A beautiful location and house to stay and Johnny and Angie are great hosts and provide a warm, welcoming and stimulating environment. The food was great.

We had a great mix between group and individual lessons with enough room to study, relax and socialize. The lessons and talks with Paul were great, he is not only a pro player but also a great educator who can quickly understands what is helping you.
With the knowledge of Music and the music industrie from Paul but also from Johnny I had a lot of new tools and encouragement to take home with me so I can take my bassplaying to the next level.

We had a great group of people who where open, respectful, constructive and really supporting each other. We learned a lot from each other as well and had a great time!

If you bring your good vibes you will have a great time!
I certainly hope that I get the opportunity to go back for another week!
Michiel Pelgrom

Just so much more than expected. I have come away more confident and able to do stuff I couldn’t do before. And it’s real fun with a great mix of people, some proper players but still always learning, and some beginners like me being so encouraged. Go. Thank you Johnny and Snake!

Three years ago I started my saxophone journey. I had more recently reached a point where I felt I was becoming stagnant in practice and lacking focus….

Then came Horn Camp!

Honestly you have to be there to fully understand…..what a week… I have come home buzzing with excitement and so many memories.
Most importantly,I have a renewed enthusiasm and drive to put into practice all I have learnt and trust me, it’s a lot!

A week of tuition both group and individual time with the very best professionals,plus during the week, a few unexpected treats for the soul, I won’t spoil the surprise….….Absolutely value for money.

If you are committed to your instrument 🎷 and strive to get better,this camp is a no brainer!
I am poised ready for the release of next years dates ready to book my place…

Claire W

When I first signed up for Horn Camp, it was with some trepidation. As a novice player, would I be able to keep up? Would I look an idiot? However, the warm and supportive atmosphere, the expert guidance and musicianship of Snake and Johnny, and the all-inclusive nature of the programme soon dispelled those worries, and gave me un unforgettable experience which enriched my life. If you get the chance to go, don't hesitate!

My second Bass Camp with Paul Turner hosted by Johnny Thirkel & Elite Music Camps.

Perfect balance of group & individual tuition, relaxing & socializing.

Beautiful location, amazing hosts, great food and with Paul, a pro with a vast experience who translates that into tuition adapted to everyones individual needs.

And as if that wasn’t enough… this week was spent with a small group of super interesting & chilled people. More convinced than ever… bass players are the coolest of the cats!

If you play bass you should definitely consider what‘s on offer with Elite Music Camps. You won‘t be disappointed.

This was my second camp, and on arriving I had the distinct impression I was back home, such is the welcoming and positive environment Johnny and Snake create. Its something I will now look forward to every year and I cant speak highly enough of what a wonderful learning and positive environment these guys have created. I am proud to call Johnny, Snake and Angie my friends!

Just spent a brilliant week at the cornet camp led by Tom Hutchinson. The course was well structured covering all aspects of playing, including; warm up, technical, sound, ensemble playing, sight reading and performance anxiety. Tom is a superb teacher and I got a lot out of the one-to-one sessions which I will take forward in my playing and practice. As well as being a great teacher, Tom is also an extremely lovely open and approachable guy. Throughout the course he was always ready to answer any questions and made time for everyone.

The location of the course is stunning and Johnny was extremely hospitable. We were very well looked after from start to finish. I even got a birthday cake, as it was my birthday while I was there 😊. The food on the course was beautiful and authentic and the trip into gorgeous Granada was fantastic.

Thanks Tom and Johnny for a learning experience that I will never forget. 😊🎺🎶