Intensive training camps are not only for sports, and this week’s chamber music camp is proof. Nearly 30 campers have been rehearsing vigorously since Monday to prepare for a concert this Saturday.

“It’s a unique experience because it’s so intensive,” said George Work, associate professor of music at Iowa State and director of the camp. “They spend four to five hours a day just practicing, which is unusual for this type of camp.”

As part of the camp, students also study with the Ames piano quartet conductor and associate professor of music Kirk Smith, visiting violinist John Gilbert of Texas Tech University and other members of the Iowa State Music Department.

Work sent out the music to the campers a few weeks ago, but the campers have only been practicing together since Monday. The campers will be accompanied by a piano and will be playing stringed instruments only.

There will be two shows on Saturday. The first, beginning at 1 p.m., will consist of small groups playing chamber music, while the second, beginning at 3 p.m., will consist of the entire group of kids.

The concert, which will be held in the Recital Hall of Music Hall, is free and open to the public.