What is Harmony Explosion / Our History

Harmony Explosion NW was founded in 2001 by Mollie and Jamie Peterson.  Since its inception, this dynamic team has brought countless personal and professional opportunities to kids using MUSIC as the catalyst. Their focus on providing inspiration to young people to work as a team, both in sectionals and on the risers, has lead to the development of the camp’s special family-based culture.

As the camp grew, so did the level of responsibility to the camp attendees: The Student Staff position was created, first featuring Jared Blatterman, and as the camp grew, so did the need for more Student Staff, and Staff leaders. Kat Erickson joined the Student Staff Leadership team along with Jared, and together, they helped streamline the duties of the Staff and Student Staff.

Nick Papageorge, and Russ Young were featured as head clinicians until their retirement in 2016.  In the time spent working as clinicians, Nick and Russ provided a solid understanding of music theory both in an individual sense, as well as in the group dynamic of the chorus setting. Offering a clean and nuanced perspective in coaching for performance.

Some time ago, a very special youth outreach team: Under The Radar Quartet, was founded.  UTR has visited MANY schools and festivals, and helped sponsor countless students. Their continued efforts and support help drive the successful attendance of camp year after year.  

Mollie and Jamie welcomed Drew Osterhout and Rachel Pack to the team as head clinicians in 2017: both of whom attended Harmony Explosion Camp as teens and young adults.

In 2018, Jamie and Mollie decided it was time to retire and hand the camp to the next generation.  Without their tireless effort, and immense heart invested in the camp, it would not be what is is today.  In keeping with our core values, the camp will continue to grow, and also rise to greet the next generation of a cappella and barbershop harmony singers.  

Jared Blatterman and Kat Erickson’s continuing goals are to uphold the special culture that Harmony Explosion NW is so well known for, and welcome all singers to the risers to experience the special magic that is: Harmony Explosion NW!