Camp is over for 2025. In 2026 VYF is going on tour and there will likely not be a camp in August of 2026. Check back later to see about camp in 2027.
We have left the 2025 info here so you can get an idea what camp is all about.
At Northwest Fiddle Camp, we believe in fostering a vibrant and inspiring learning environment with reasonable class sizes to ensure that every participant gets the attention they need to grow as musicians. Below are the currently confirmed mentors for the 2025 camp. Based on registration volume and interest in secondary instruments, additional mentors may be added.
Meet Our 2025 Northwest Fiddle Camp Mentors
Elise Boeur - Fiddle
Blending Nordic, Celtic, and contemporary folk influences, Elise Boeur is an extraordinary fiddler and Hardanger fiddle player who brings a fresh, modern energy to traditional music. As a member of the JUNO-nominated and Canadian Folk Music Award-winning band Aerialists, Elise has performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages. She is passionate about sharing her love of Scandinavian fiddle traditions and beyond, offering students an opportunity to explore rich, lesser-known styles in a supportive setting.
Kyle Burghout - Fiddle, Piano
A decorated fiddler with titles like North American Irish Fiddle Champion and Grand North American Old-Time Fiddle Champion, Kyle Burghout is a powerhouse of traditional music. His compositions have been performed by orchestras and ensembles worldwide, and he’s a co-founder of the annual Gatineau Hills Fiddle Festival. Whether performing, composing, or teaching, Kyle is passionate about sharing his love of fiddle music and helping students refine their technique, style, and musical expression.
Jaron Freeman-Fox - Fiddle, Guitar
Jaron Freeman-Fox takes fiddling to places you never thought possible! A fearless innovator with deep traditional roots, he blends influences from around the world to create a sound that is truly his own. Having apprenticed with some of the most revered fiddlers on the planet, he has recorded over 40 albums and performed across the globe with his award-winning band, The Opposite of Everything. A regular mentor with the Valley Youth Fiddlers, Jaron brings boundless energy, unique compositions, and a spirit of musical adventure to every camp he visits. Whether you're looking to expand your technical skills, explore new sounds, or simply be inspired, Jaron's electrifying approach will ignite your creativity.
Jake Jenne - Drums, Choral
Leslie-Jean MacMillan - Fiddle
A passionate educator and performer, Leslie-Jean MacMillan brings decades of experience to her fiddle students. She has a gift for breaking down technique, helping students develop confidence in their playing, and making music feel approachable and fun. Whether you’re looking to refine your bowing, explore new arrangements, or simply deepen your love for fiddle music, Leslie-Jean’s engaging and supportive teaching style ensures that every student leaves camp feeling inspired and energized.
Clint Pelletier - Guitar, Ukulele
A sought-after guitarist in the country, folk, and jazz scenes, Clint Pelletier has been a dedicated instructor and workshop leader for over 15 years. A Berklee College of Music scholarship recipient, he ultimately pursued studies at Grant McEwan College before touring with April Verch and the internationally acclaimed group Barrage. Clint’s extensive performance experience and engaging teaching style make him a fantastic mentor for aspiring guitarists looking to enhance their accompaniment skills and soloing techniques.
Marian Rose - Piano, Accordion, Dance
Music and dance go hand in hand, and Marian Rose is a master at bringing the two together! A celebrated dance caller, musician, and folk dance educator, Marian has introduced the joy of traditional social dance to over 200,000 school children and their families. With decades of experience teaching Québécois traditional dance and leading workshops across North America, Marian knows how to make learning fun, engaging, and truly communal.
Emilyn Stam - Piano, Accordion, Fiddle
A multi-instrumentalist known for her deep artistry on fiddle, piano, and accordion, Emilyn Stam draws from diverse influences, from Canadian fiddling to European folk traditions. A protégé of the late Oliver Schroer, she has performed with groups such as the Lemon Bucket Orkestra and Dutch Balfolk ensemble Té. Emilyn has a gift for teaching ensemble playing, creative composition, and accompaniment, making her a favorite among students looking to explore new styles and approaches.
James Stephens - Fiddle, Mandolin, Guitar
A master of both performance and production, James Stephens is a highly respected multi-instrumentalist and recording engineer specializing in acoustic music. He has taught at numerous camps across North America, including The Algoma Trad Music and Dance Camp. James played a key role in the renowned “Truffles” project in Smithers, BC—a mentorship initiative designed to inspire young musicians to compose and perform their own music. His deep knowledge of traditional and contemporary styles, combined with his enthusiasm for teaching, makes him a favorite among students of all levels.
With such an incredible lineup of mentors, the 2025 Northwest Fiddle Camp promises to be an unforgettable experience! Stay tuned for possible additional instructors based on student interest and enrollment.
