Haines Music and Dance Camp, a one-day series of workshops for adults and teens of all skill levels, will be held Sunday, Jan. 18, at the Chilkat Center.

The inaugural event is aimed at expanding the knowledge and ability of residents who might not otherwise get the opportunity to learn, said organizer Sue Libenson, a resident and pianist who plays in local bands.

“It’s an opportunity for people to try different music and dance classes. We’ll have a range of options taught by local teachers, from belly dancing to music theory,” Libenson said. She expects a small fee will pay for a full day’s pass to classes.

Classes are still being developed but ones she has planned so far include improvisation, swing guitar, song and lyric writing, belly dancing, ensemble, brass, drum and percussion, home studio recording, and how to read music.

Libenson is still looking for instructors and is open to other ideas for classes. “I’m hoping to have at least 12 courses to choose from in the course of the day. Besides trying new music and dance options, it’s a chance to make connections with other musicians,” she said.

The event is inspired by a jazz workshop Libenson joined in Anchorage a few years ago that introduced her to funk, Cuban music and other genres not typically played around Haines. “I thought it would be fun to push ourselves in Haines to learn something a little different or try playing with other people other than they normally do.”

Instructors who have already agreed to participate include residents Nancy Nash, Adam Patterson, Andrew Cardella, Tully Devine, Christy Tengs Fowler, John Hunt, Tom Heywood and Eric Holle.

Heywood, a musician who serves as president of Haines Arts Council president, has offered a swing guitar. Heywood said a little inspiration can go a long way with music. He played guitar all his life, but only became serious about it about 10 years ago after receiving a lesson from guitarist and former resident Steve Ritzinger.

“It sparked my interest. (My guitar playing) went from something I did to something I had to do every day. It was just one lesson that got me going, so there’s great potential with something like this,” Heywood said.

Heywood said the idea for a music camp featuring local instructors and participants has been kicked around by musicians and said Libenson deserves credit for taking it on.

For more information, contact Libenson at 303-0022.