Hi Jan!

Michelle here, from the Credo office to help answer some of your questions:
1. Cell phones- students are allowed to have their cell phones and can make calls home as they wish. We encourage students to use their phones only as needed so that they can focus on developing person-to-person relationships with their fellow campers and our faculty. Similarly, we limit internet use- many parents like a daily email check-in but we don't allow students to spend hours on facebook!
2. Parent visits- Yes, parents are allowed to visit. They are especially encouraged to visit on weekends. On Saturdays, you can come see your student play in one of the student chamber music concerts. Sundays are set aside for a day of rest for the students- parents are also welcome to visit then. Some parents also volunteer on Thursday Service Days- we always need help with rides, chaperoning, etc.
*We'll keep a blog during camp that will include information about when each chamber group is playing and what has been going on each day. This is a great resource for parents to keep informed.
3. Saturdays- Each Saturday during camp the students play in one of two chamber music concerts in either the afternoon or evening. The rest of the day is spent in rehearsals, coachings, or individual practice time.
4. New Students- We (and our alumni!) love new students! Yes, we have a lot of returning students but they are always eager to meet new friends. Most students find adjusting to the social life at Credo very easy. There are plenty of opportunities to bond quickly: their chamber groups, roommates, evening organized activities...!

Hopefully some other parents will weigh in about their experiences in the past. I hope that helps!