by MajoringInMusic.com

The best summer music camp or program can be a challenge to find. That’s why MajoringInMusic.com is here to help you figure out what to look for and how to find one or more options that fit with your interests. 

Start by asking yourself: What do you want to experience in a summer music program? Which of these grab your interest?

• Receive private lessons
• Study with a specific teacher
• Find people to perform and jam and collaborate with
• Learn how to practice more efficiently and effectively
• Learn to compose
• Meet music mentors
• Learn music production skills
• Learn music theory
• Improve sight-reading proficiency
• Enhance songwriting ability
• Learn aural skills
• Prepare for auditions
• Deal with performance anxiety
• Take master classes

Then ask yourself: What besides music would you like to explore or participate in? Water sports? Theatre and/or dance? Trips to local places of interest or concerts? Specific geographical areas or colleges?

What kind of environment do you want to be in?

• • Advanced, intermediate or beginner level?
  • Competitive vs. relaxed? 
  • Are you willing to audition to be accepted?
  • Location: In the U.S.? Where? Outside the U.S.? Where?
  • In-person? Residential? Commuter? Virtual?
  • Is there a specific school you’d like to learn more about by attending their summer program?

Your timing:

How long of a program can you commit to? Does your available timing match up with programs you’re interested in?

Affordability:

Can you afford the program or programs you’re interested in? Do you need financial assistance? (Financial support often requires applying early.)

Other considerations or limitations: Anything that will affect your applying or your decision?

Different Strokes for Different Folks

There are several types of summer programs to consider.

1. Performing arts camps

• Take lessons and get practice and performance opportunities in a well-rounded summer experience.
• Meet other musicians wanting a strong music program within a full camp experience.
• Participate in traditional camp activities such as water and land sports, hiking, social events, overnight excursions, crafts, etc.

2. Programs on college campuses

• Experience the campus, faculty, dorms and meet other prospective students at a school where you may want to apply.
• Take lessons from faculty you may end up studying with – and have them get to know you and give feedback about your proficiency before you audition.
• Experience the location – how do you like the area? Would it work to be there for four years?
• Gain college planning and audition skills.

3. Instrument and genre-focused programs

• Immerse yourself in your area of musical focus and passion.
• Meet lifelong friends and mentors in your field.

4. Music festivals

• Meet faculty who perform all over the world as well as a select group of advanced music students with shared interests.

5. International summer music programs

• Immerse yourself in another culture.
• Discover how a different culture informs your playing or singing, your compositions and your arrangements.
• Meet mentors and fellow students from around the world.
• Do some traveling while you’re away.

Whatever you choose, know that you will gain knowledge and experience that may excite you to want to pursue music as your focus in college – or not. Either way, it will be time and money well spent and you’ll hopefully come away with increased music proficiency, new friends, and information about yourself that will serve you well into the future.

Learn More: Annual Summer Music Camps & Programs Guide

Photo credit: Ethan Cisneros for LYNX Camps