Red Wing Academy 2026

Red Wing Academy is hosted by Eric Brubaker of The Steel Wheels as a four-day intensive camp held June 14-17 & 19, 2026 at Eastern Mennonite University, leading up to a performance on stage with the band at Red Wing Roots Music Festival.

Red Wing Academy is open to non-beginner violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar, mandolin and banjo students ages 5 – 19. Students will receive individual and group instruction from highly trained music teachers and will also be coached by members of The Steel Wheels throughout the week. Daily curriculum will include group classes, mini lessons, improv and jam sessions, technique and tone development, stage performance, electives, recreation, panel discussions, showcases, and more. Each day will close with a camp wide rehearsal to practice for the Red Wing performance.

Throughout the 4-day workshop, students will learn several tunes to perform collectively. On Friday, June 19, the Academy experience will culminate at Red Wing Roots Music Festival with a live, on-stage performance with The Steel Wheels.

Detailed schedule and class descriptions will be announced this spring! Students must be able to commit to the full camp schedule, including all camp days and festival performances.

$365 Earlybird registration deadline: February 6

$390 Registration deadline: March 27 (late registrations will be accepted on a space available basis)

Refunds cannot be given after March 27

Full and partial scholarship opportunities are available for qualifying students. Scholarship Applications are available in English and Spanish on our website, www.redwingroots.com/academy. To learn more, email [email protected] or call 540-588-0332.

Red Wing Academy Volunteer and Sponsorship opportunities are available in exchange for passes to Red Wing Roots Music Festival, tuition discounts, and other perks. You may also order additional T-shirts for family and friends! Please also consider donating to Red Wing Academy's scholarship fund. Stay updated at www.redwingroots.com/academy and on facebook!

Daily schedule is as follows:

Sunday, June 14, 1:00 – 5:00

Monday, June 15, 9:00 – 3:00

Tuesday, June 16, 9:00 – 3:00

Wednesday, June 17, 9:00 – 3:00

Friday, June 19 – performances with The Steel Wheels at Red Wing Roots Music Festival

A T-shirt and Friday day pass to Red Wing Roots Music Festival are included in your child’s Red Wing Academy tuition. If you wish to upgrade your child’s ticket to a weekend pass, you may do so by paying the difference at camp. Students 12 and under are able to upgrade for free. Family/friends of campers who wish to attend the festival must purchase their own pass at www.redwingroots.com. Single day tickets for the festival will be available in the spring.

Email [email protected] or call 540-588-0332 for more information or to inquire about overnight accommodations and local recommendations if you are traveling from out of town.

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