Gibsons Fiddle Camp 2026
August 28–30, 2026 | Chaster House | Gibsons, BC
The Gibsons Fiddle Camp returns for its 6th year on the stunning Sunshine Coast! Join us for a weekend of inspiring workshops, collaborative ensemble playing, and seaside jams — all set against the waterfront backdrop of Chaster House.
This year’s faculty:
Trent Freeman · Oliver Swain · Gabriel Dubreuil
Whether you’re looking to deepen your ensemble skills, expand your repertoire, or simply make music in a welcoming community, this camp is for you.
This camp is produced by GABRIEL DUBREUIL (Early Spirit Productions). Celtic Ensemble students are eligible for a discounted rate.
EVENT WEBSITE
🎻 Weekend Overview
Friday, August 28
7:00 PM – House Concert (Gibsons)
An intimate kickoff concert featuring our instructors.
Saturday, August 29 – Chaster House
10:30–12:30 Classes
12:30–1:30 Lunch
1:30–3:00 Classes
3:00–3:30 Break
3:30–5:00 Classes
5:30–Late Outdoor Potluck Picnic & Jam
Sunday, August 30 – Chaster House
10:00–11:00 Classes
11:15–12:15 Classes
12:15–1:45 Beach Lunch
1:45–3:00 Beach Jam
3:00 Pack Up
🎼 Workshop Streams
Choose the stream that best suits your instrument and experience level:
Accompanists
(Guitar, piano, ukulele, etc.)
With Oliver Swain
Develop groove, harmonic awareness, and ensemble sensitivity.
Intermediate / Mixed Ensemble
For melodic instrumentalists
With Trent Freeman & Gabriel Dubreuil
Strengthen tone, phrasing, and ensemble skills while learning dynamic fiddle sets.
Advanced Ensemble
For experienced melodic players
With Trent Freeman & Gabriel Dubreuil
Dig deep into nuanced arrangements, musical communication, and stylistic detail.
Who Should Attend?
Open to musicians of all ages who love ensemble playing and fiddle traditions.
Focused primarily on adults and teens
Children welcome with 3+ years experience and accompanied by a parent
Not suitable for beginners with less than 6–12 months of experience
Note: Book accommodations and ferry reservations early — summer on the Sunshine Coast fills quickly!
2026 Faculty
Trent Freeman
JUNO Award–winning violinist and founding member of The Fretless, Trent is known for his genre-bridging artistry that moves effortlessly between traditional fiddle styles and bold contemporary soundscapes. A prolific composer and collaborator, he has toured internationally and recorded extensively with artists such as John Reischman and Pharis & Jason Romero. Also an exceptional guitarist and pianist, Trent brings deep musical insight to every ensemble.
Oliver Swain
JUNO nominee and two-time Western Canadian Music Award winner, Oliver is one of Canada’s most versatile roots musicians. A master multi-instrumentalist (bass, banjo) and vocalist with 50+ album credits, he has performed across North America, Europe, and Australia. A respected choir director and accompanist coach, Oliver brings groove, depth, and generosity to every session.
Gabriel Dubreuil
Blending Québécois and Celtic traditions with classical and jazz influences, Gabriel is a Berklee College of Music graduate and an active performer with Collage Trad and Early Spirit. He serves as Executive & Artistic Director of the Celtic Ensemble and Programming Director for Festival du Bois. Gabriel is passionate about building musical community through ensemble playing.
Camp Fees
Early Bird (until June 10, 2026) – $200
Regular (after June 10, 2026) – $250
NSCE & SEAOM Members (Early Bird | until June 10, 2026) – $175
Saturday + Concert Only – $125
What Participants Are Saying
“Gabe’s Gibsons Fiddle Camp was a fantastic family experience! Kind and inclusive instructors, great mix of tunes for all levels, and an amazing concert to kick things off. The energy, community, and joy were unforgettable. My kids are already asking to go back next year!”
🎶 Register Now
Spots are limited. Join us for a weekend of music, connection, and coastal inspiration.