With 17 albums and 24 years of international touring under her belt, Ottawa Valley native April Verch, is a seasoned veteran. April won’t be the one to tell you about her championship titles, nominations and awards, or the fact that she was one of 6 fiddlers who represented the Canadian fiddle tradition to the world at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver. Instead, in speaking with her, you’ll hear about how passionate she is about sharing her music; in small gatherings in remote communities in Iqaluit, to large prestigious concert halls like Mozartsal in Vienna. A skilled teacher, she teaches private Zoom lessons, is in demand to instruct at music camps around the world. In addition, April works for Canis Major Music, and is Director of the Acadia Festival for Traditional Music & Dance, a weeklong camp and concert series held in Maine each summer.

https://aprilverch.com/

"I had the best time at Fiddleheads Acoustic Jam Camp! The location is way off the beaten path, which allowed for a total focus on the music. The best thing was that the focus was on the students and not the teachers, everybody got to jam and perform. Ellen and Melissa were relaxed but totally on top of all the details and the food was definitely above average! I highly recommend this wonderful weekend!"

- Tony Trischka, featured coach 2022

"What's not to love about Fiddleheads Jam Camp? The location is gorgeous, the instructors are invested, and the students come ready to put their all into the classes. The variety of interesting workshops makes it hard to choose, and the focus on jamming in the after-hours is prime for making memories and new friends. The community was supportive and creative, and I certainly felt fortunate to be a part of it!"

- Celia Woodsmith, featured coach 2023

"Fiddleheads is such a great weekend of community, musical learning and fun! Ellen and Melissa have put together a great mix of classes and opportunities to play and create together in small ensembles for an incredible few days that will leave you feeling musically rejuvenated and inspired."

- Ellery Klein, featured coach 2024

What a wonderful camp! The grounds are beautiful, the food is great, and the community stewarded by Ellen and Melissa is so positive and inclusive. There are opportunities to participate in almost any musical style on any instrument, whether you are an expert or a beginner.  I feel the Fiddleheads community is especially warm and welcoming, perfect for those who have been playing alone and are eager (or perhaps nervous) about jamming and playing with others. I feel so lucky to have been a part of Fiddleheads Jam Camp.

- Alex Rubin, featured coach 2024