2019 Summer Music Programs
How to Get Started
Click on these links to learn more:
1. Music camps and programs in the U.S. and abroad: Camp & Program Ads and Geographical Listings
2. Guidance for students and parents: How to Choose a Summer Music Program.
3. Job opportunities for college students: Summer Jobs Section.
2019 Geographical Listings by State + International
(additional programs will be added regularly through Spring 2019)
AGBU Musical Armenia Program
Focus: 3-week summer initiative connecting aspiring and professional artists with Armenia’s rich musical heritage.
Dates: July 8-28
Boston Conservatory Opera Intensive at Valencia (Spain)
Focus: Three-week opera study for undergraduates and recent graduates. Voice major not required.
Dates: June 2-22
The Ingenium Academy International Music Summer School (London, UK)
Focus: Orchestra, vocal, piano, saxophone, conducting, composition, chamber music.
Dates: July 14-Aug.11
Oberlin in Italy
Focus: Four-week intensive opera training program in Tuscany for pre-professional singers. Includes private lessons, coaching, master classes, language study, performance. Two fully-staged operas, also opera scenes performance.
Dates: July 6-Aug. 6
Performing Arts Abroad music (Various Countries)
Focus: Music programs abroad; all instruments and areas of study.
Dates: Rolling start dates, May to August
Pacific Region Int’l Summer Music Academy – PRISMA (BC, Canada)
Focus: Applied music – performance, orchestral conducting, audition training, concerto competition. Strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, harp.
Dates: June 17-19
Vancouver Symphony Orchestral Institute at Whistler
Focus: Intensive orchestral program: strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, harp, piano. Chamber music, concerto competition, conducting residencies, lessons, master classes. VSO in residence during Institute.
Dates: June 24-July 3
Virtuoso & Belcanto Festival (Lucca, Italy)
Focus: Two-week intensive summer program for violin, viola, cello, piano – chamber music combined with 5 competitions featuring substantial awards.
Dates: July 15-28
Be A Music Major! – Arizona State University
Focus: Auditions, careers, masterclasses, performances, electives, piano, voice, brass, woodwinds, strings, percussion.
Dates: June 7
MEF/ASU Music Camp
Focus: Band, choir, ensembles, masterclasses, electives, performances, voice, brass, woodwinds, percussion, leadership.
Dates: June 17-22
California Institute of the Arts – Discover Music
Focus: Experimental chamber music for ages 14-17. All instruments can apply.
Dates: 1 week session, June 15-23; 2 week session, June 15-29
Idyllwild Arts Summer Program
Focus: Jazz, classical, symphony orchestra, wind symphony, band, piano performance, songwriting, choral music.
Dates: June 23-August 3
Jazz Camp West
Focus: Eight-day jazz immersion program for instrumentalists, vocalists and dancers of all skill levels. Workshops, personalized instruction, student performances, faculty concerts, late night jams and Jazz Camp’s signature Piano, Guitar and Vocal Intensive. New this year: String Program.
Dates: June 22-29
San Francisco Conservatory of Music Pre-College Programs
Focus: Composition Workshop; Gilbert and Sullivan Scenes (singing, acting and stage movement for ages 10-18).
Dates: Application deadline April 15; Composition Workshop, June 24 – July 19; Gilbert and Sullivan Scenes, June 17-29
Stanford Summer Arts Institute
Focus: Music; also art history and film.
Dates: Session 1, June 24-July 12; Session 2, July 15-August 2
University of the Pacific Music Camp
Focus: Brubeck Institute Jazz Camp; Pacific Music Business Camp; Senior Band, Orchestra, Choir Camp; Pacific Music Theatre Camp; Senior Piano Camp.
Dates: 7-day programs June-July
Colorado Conservatory for the Jazz Arts
Jazz in the Sangres Arts Camp
Focus: Small group/improv and big band focus, plus master classes, jam sessions, workshops, performances, activities for high school musicians. Horns, drums, piano, guitar, bass, vibes.
Dates: July 23-27
Colorado State University School of Music, Theatre and Dance
Focus: Marching band, clarinet, percussion, organ, piano.
Dates: Vary by program, June-August
CommonChord Summer Songwriting Intensive
Focus: Songwriting, composition, performance, film, the role of empathy in the arts.
Dates: July 12-14
CU Denver: LYNX Camp Audio Production/ Ableton Live Program
Focus: Students will work in our recording studios to learn audio production and Ableton Live.
Dates: June 10-14
CU Denver: LYNX Camp Music Industry Program
Focus: Music Industry – singer/songwriter, recording arts, music business, performance/ensembles. Electives, ensembles, private lessons, guest artists, field trips, concerts.
Dates: June 16-28
Lamont School of Music Summer Academy
Focus: Private Lessons; Master Classes; Chamber Ensembles; Orchestra; Wind Ensemble; Choir; Flex Jazz Ensemble; Music Theatre; Steel Drum Ensemble; Digital Music Making; Conducting; Theory; Collaborative Piano; Alexander Technique; Diction for Singers; Composers’ New Music Workshop; Concerto/Aria Competition. Recreational activities, recitals.
Dates: June 20–July 3
Rafael Méndez Brass Institute
Focus: Brass, chamber music, performance, career development.
Dates: July 7-13
Rocky Ridge Music Center
Focus: violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, piano, voice, orchestra, chamber, jazz.
Dates: June 4-16; June 18-July 14; July 16-28; July 30-August 4
University of Colorado Boulder College of Music Summer Academy
Focus: High School Summer Music Academy (band, strings, piano); Summer Jazz Academy.
Dates: Summer Music Academy – June 16-21; Jazz Academy – July 7-12
The Hartt School Community Division
Focus: Meet the Masters jazz instrumental + vocal; Vocal Audition Advantage; Young Composers Project – composing for film.
Dates: Vary by program, between end of June through mid-August.
Florida State University College of Music
Focus: Band Camp, Choral Ensemble Camp, Double Bass Workshop, Guitar Workshop, Honors Chamber Winds Camp, Jazz Ensemble, Marching Band Leadership Camp, Piano Camp, Piano Institute, String Orchestra Camp, Tuba and Euphonium Workshop.
Dates: Vary by program, between mid-June through late July
Frost Young Musicians’ Summer Camp
Focus: Classical, jazz, rock, musical theater, voice, contemporary voice, jazz voice, composition, songwriting.
Dates: July 1-12; July 15-26
Frost Summer Institute of Contemporary Vocal Performance
Focus: Contemporary voice
Dates: July 1-12; July 15-26
Frost Summer Institute of Contemporary Songwriting
Focus: Contemporary songwriting.
Dates: July 1-12; July 15-26
Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University
Focus: CCPA String Camp; CCPA American Music Institute; Chicago Saxophone Institute; Summer Composition Institute; American Culture & Language Institute (for English Language Program (ELP) students)
Dates: vary by program, June through August
Midwest Young Artists Conservatory
Focus: Orchestra, chamber music, flute workshop, jazz, choral, opera.
Dates: vary by program, June-July
Millikin University Summer Music Camps
Focus: Hip hop (Music Alive); A Cappella.
Dates: vary by program, both mid-June
Northwestern University Summer Music Programs
Focus: Voice, violin, trombone, guitar, conducting.
Dates: vary by program, June-July
Wheaton College Summer Music Camp
Focus: Vocals, brass, strings, percussion, chamber, choral, piano, woodwind, world music, music history.
Dates: June 23-30
Butler University Summer Camps
Focus: Bass Camp (upright); Big-Band Workshop (18+); Jazz Camp (instrumental, vocal); Percussion Camp; Piano Camp; Snare and Tenor Camp; String Scholars Camp; Woodwind Camp.
Dates: Vary by program; June through July
Vocal Arts at DePauw 2019
Focus: Voice, classical, musical theatre.
Dates: June 16-22
Indiana University Jacobs School of Music
Focus: Summer Music Academies and Workshops for Piano, Strings, Saxophone, Percussion, Organ, and College Audition Preparation.
Dates: Vary by program, from mid-June through end of July
Lutheran Summer Music (LSM)
Focus: Bassoon, Cello, Clarinet, Composition, Double Bass, Euphonium, Flute, Horn, Oboe, Organ, Percussion, Piano, Saxophone, Trombone, Trumpet, Viola, Violin and Voice.
Dates: June 23-July 21 (half session available June 23-July 7)
LSU Bands
Focus: TALC Summer Camp for leadership skills, color guard, and marching percussion; LSU Bands Summer Camp for Chamber Winds and Percussion (by audition only) or Concert Band (open to all).
Dates: June 5-8 (TALC); June 9-13 (Bands Summer Camp)
Peabody Preparatory
Focus: Summer Guitar Intensive; Glissando Summer Harp Festival; Peabody Piano Week; Chamber Week; Classical Singers Workshop; Summer Vocal Academy; Creative Composition and Improvisation Intensive.
Dates: Vary by program; June-August
Berklee College of Music – Summer Programs
Focus: Music performance; music production; songwriting and composition; music business; musical theater; opera. All instruments, the full breadth of the music industry, and a range of styles from classical to contemporary. Programs for high school, college, middle school.
Dates: Vary by program, weekend to all summer
Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Focus: Alexander Technique Summer Intensive; Opera (see International listing).
Dates: June 11-15 or June 18-22
Boston University Tanglewood Institute (BUTI)
Focus: Summer music training program for instrumentalists, singers, and composers ages 10-20; a program of BU College of Fine Arts, operating in conjunction with the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Tanglewood Music Center
Dates: Vary by program, mid-June through mid-August
Longy School of Music
Focus: El Sistema Summer Academy for young musicians from El Sistema-inspired programs; Music for Healing and Transition Program; Dalcroze Summer Institute; Divergent Studio (chamber music, composition).
Dates: Vary by program, June through August
Walnut Hill Summer Theatre Program
Focus: 5-week boarding program, ages 13-17, daily classes in acting, musical theater, dance and opportunities to perform.
Dates: June 22-July 21
Interlochen Summer Arts Camp
Focus: Multi-week programs in orchestra and wind symphony; advanced string quartet; harp; composition; organ; piano; voice; jazz; rock; singer-songwriter; musical theatre. 1-week institutes in strings; woodwinds; brass; percussion; piano; musical theatre.
Dates: Vary by program, June-August
University of Michigan MPulse Summer Institutes
Focus: Musical theatre, theatre & drama, dance, flute, harp, clarinet, trumpet, saxophone, double bass, jazz, violin, cello, viola, vocal arts.
Dates: Vary by program, June-August
MSUM Kodály Summer Music Institute
Focus: Graduate-level Kodály music education training for teachers.
Dates: July 8-19
The Walden School Creative Musicians Retreat
Focus: Composition, improvisation, choral singing, pedagogy, teacher training, chamber music, contemporary music, performance
Dates: June 15-23
The Walden School Young Musicians Program
Focus: composition, improvisation, choral singing, musicianship, theory, chamber music
Dates: June 29-August 4
Rutgers Mason Gross School of the Arts
Focus: Chamber music; Music Theory and Ear Training Bootcamp; Summer Jazz Institute; Symphonic Wind Band and Chamber Music Camp; Oboe Reed Making Intensive.
Dates: Vary by program; July through early August
Bard Music Camp
Focus: full day camp, instruction on piano, violin, viola, cello, double bass, guitar, voice, clarinet, saxophone, trombone, composition, percussion.
Dates: July 8-13
Fredonia Summer Music Festival
Focus: High school band, middle school band, orchestra, choir, solo vocals, strings, concert band
Dates: Program dates vary, end of June through July
French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts
Focus: Musical theatre; vocals; orchestra; jazz; rock and roll. Full camp setting includes water + other sports; dance; art; theatre; circus; magic.
Dates: 3-week sessions June 8-Aug. 25; 1 week session Aug. 25 – Sept. 1
Ithaca College Summer Music Academy
Focus: Jazz, voice, choral, wind ensemble, orchestra
Dates: High School Program (entering 10-12), July 14-27; Middle/Intermediate School Program (entering 7-9), July 28-Aug. 3
Long Lake Camp for the Arts
Focus: Vocal and instrumental camp and rock camp with traditional camp activities.
Dates: Three 3-week sessions starting June 23, July 15 and August 5
Mannes Prep Summer Chamber Intensive
Focus: Chamber ensembles, coaching, sight-reading, master classes, jam sessions.
Dates: August 5-10
MSM Summer (Manhattan School of Music)
Focus: Musical theatre & classical voice; composition, instrumental, & jazz voice.
Dates: Vary by program, July
New York Jazz Workshop Summer Programs
Focus: Improvisation, composition, arranging, vocal, piano, guitar, saxophone, bass +
Dates: Programs vary, June 2 – August 29
Summer@Eastman
Focus: On-campus, residential programs: Classical (Music Horizons); Jazz (Summer Jazz Studies); Cello Institute; Flute Masterclass; Saxophone Institute; Eastman Saxophone Project (ESP) Institute; Trombone Institute; Trumpet Institute; French Horn Institute; Organ Academy. All include lessons, theory, master classes, more.
Dates: Vary by program, between June 24-August 2
Syracuse University Summer College
Focus: Acting & musical theatre; sound engineering & audio production.
Dates: June 29-July 19
East Carolina University School of Music Summer Camps & Workshops
Focus: Chamber Music Institute
Dates: June 9-15
Baldwin Wallace Conservatory Summer Institute
Focus: 10-day intensive program for high school students considering studying music in college. Work with faculty and members of the Cleveland Orchestra. Institutes include: Strings, Choral, Keyboard, Wind and Percussion.
Dates: July 4-13
Bowling Green State University Summer Music Institute
Focus: Strings, vocal, double reed, percussion, saxophone, brass, musical theatre, piano camp. Study with BGSU faculty, guest artists, and experienced college students. For middle and high school students.
Dates: June 16-21 and June 23-28
Oberlin Conservatory Summer Programs
Focus: Baroque Perforomance Institute; Flute Academy; Percussion Institute; Sonic Arts Workshop; Trumpet Workshop; Vocal Academy; Young Composers Workshop.
Dates: Vary by program, between mid-June and July 1
University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM)
Focus: High School Arts Immersion; FortiCCMo Piano Workshop; Jazz Academy; Musical Theatre Workshop; Voice Workshop.
Dates: Vary by program, mid-June-end of June
University of Dayton Summer Performance Institutes
Focus: Vocal, Brass, Woodwind, Jazz.
Dates: Vary by program, typically middle to late June
Oklahoma City University Summer Music Programs
Focus: Musical Theater 10 Day Pre-College Intensive; 4-Week High School Music Theater Program
Dates: Music Theater Intensive –– June 26-July 6; High School Music Theater Program –– June 26-July 28
Carnegie Mellon University Summer Pre-College Music
Focus: Immersion in a conservatory environment similar to freshman year. Instrumental, vocal, composition. Lessons, coaching, audition prep.
Dates: Six week or 3 week program; between June 29-Aug 9
Duquesne Summer Music Series
Focus: Summer Jazz Experience; Music Technology Summer Intensive; Steel City Brass Camp; Violin and Viola Boot Camp.
Dates: Vary by program, June-August
Lebanon Valley College
Focus: Concert band, string ensemble, choir, jazz, rock, blues ensemble.
Dates: July 7-12
Penn State School of Music – Honors Music Institute
Focus: Chamber Choir, jazz combo, wind ensembles, piano, music technology.
Dates: July 14-20
Philadelphia International Music Camp & Festival (PIMF)
Focus: Symphony orchestra, chamber music, solo performance, piano studies, music theatre, opera, college audition preparation program.
Dates: June 15-28; July 13-26
Temple University Boyer College of Music and Dance Summer Workshops
Focus: Music, Movement and Mindfulness; Summer Dance Intensive; Young Women Composer Camp; Music Technology; The Singer and the Choral Conductor.
Dates: Vary by program, June – August
University of the Arts Creative Jazz Institute
Focus: Jazz, ensembles, lessons, jam sessions, master classes, bass (upright or electric), clarinet, drum set, flute, guitar, percussion (African, Latin, etc.), piano, saxophone, trombone, trumpet, vibraphone, or voice.
Dates: July 8-20
Southeast Piano Festival
Focus: Rigorous piano program; lessons, master classes, piano competition.
Dates: June 16-23
University of South Carolina Summer Music Programs
Focus: Carolina Summer Music Conservatory (small chamber ensembles with a focus on musicianship, private lessons, audition prep, jazz improvisation); Drum Major Clinic (3-day leadership training for drum majors and other leaders); SAVVY Arts Venture Challenge (5-day hands-on entrepreneurship workshop training). Additional programs for children.
Dates: Vary by program, June-July
Belmont University School of Music
Focus: Strings Camp (classical, jazz, rock, Celtic, swing, bluegrass); Winds Band Camp (wind symphony, symphonic band, jazz ensemble, chamber music); Vocal Arts (solo and choral); piano camp (classical or jazz).
Dates: Vary by program, all in June
Eastern Carolina University Summer Band Camp
Focus: Band rehearsals, sectionals, private lessons, musicianship, recreation activities. Jazz track option.
Dates: June 16-21
Steve Kaufman’s Acoustic Kamps
Focus: Beginner through advanced instruction in bluegrass and old time: fiddle, banjo, flatpicking guitar, fingerstyle guitar, old time singing, bluegrass singing, bass mandolin, resophonic guitar, songwriting, ukulele, hammered dulcimer, mountain dulcimer.
Dates: Old Time Week, June 9-15; Bluegrass Week, June 16-22
TCU Summer Music Institute
Focus: Camp: Band (high school or middle school); choir; percussion. Workshops: clarinet; flute; harp; saxophone; strings.
Dates: Vary by program, June or July
Texas Music Festival
Focus: Instructional institutes in voice, flute or jazz for high school and middle school held at University of Houston Moores School of Music.
Dates: Vary by program, all in June.
Torggler Vocal Institute
Focus: Vocal training, musical theatre, classical voice, audition techniques.
Dates: June 16-29
Marrowstone Music Festival (Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra)
Focus: Classical training, pre-college/university division/fellowship.
Dates: July 21-August 4
University of Puget Sound Brass Camp
Focus: Small groups and large ensembles, master classes, final performance.
Dates: June 24-28
Lawrence University
Focus: Musical Theatre; Piano Camp; Summer Chamber Music; Band Camp.
Dates: Vary by program, June-July
Shell Lake Arts Center
Focus: Music, theatre and visual arts.
Dates: June 9 – August 9 (camps vary from week to week)
Choose the Best Summer Music Program
First, answer these 6 questions. Then read “Advantages of Different Programs” (below). Now you’re ready to look at all of these programs and see which ones match your criteria to help you choose the best music program for you.
1. What do you want to gain from a summer music program?
For example:
- Private lessons with a specific teacher
- Learning to practice more efficiently and effectively
- Opportunities to play or sing in ensembles, orchestras, bands
- Opportunities to perform in musical theatre, operas, or a cappella groups
- Opportunities to learn more about composing
- Opportunities to jam with other students, faculty
- Opportunities to learn about music production
- Opportunities to meet new music friends
- Music theory preparation
- Sight-reading proficiency
- Songwriting proficiency
- Aural skills
- Audition preparation
- Dealing with performance anxiety
- Master classes
- Musical mentors
2. What in addition to music would you like to explore or participate in?
3. What kind of environment do you want to be in?
- Competitive vs. laid back?
- Where in the U.S. – or world?
- Cultural experience + a summer music program?
- Commuter vs. living at the camp or program?
- Learn more about a specific college or conservatory while studying music?
4. What’s your current proficiency level? Willing to audition to be accepted?
5. Length of program
- How long of a program are you able and willing to commit to?
- Which dates are you available?
6. Finances
- Any financial restrictions?
- Will you apply for scholarships and other financial aid if needed? (Note that financial support often requires applying early.)
Advantages of Different Programs
There are a variety of types of summer music programs to consider. Some of these overlap in what they offer.
1. Performing arts camps
- Get lessons, 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: water and land sports, hiking, social events, overnight excursions, crafts, etc.
2. Programs on college campuses
- Experience the campus, faculty, and dorms at a school where you might apply.
- Take lessons from faculty you may end up studying with.
- Meet students who may also end up applying to the school.
- 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. Programs associated with music festivals
- Meet faculty who perform all over the world as well as a select group of students with shared interests.
- If housed on a college campus, see #2 above.
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.
Summer Camp and Program Jobs
Contact these programs to learn more about summer jobs. New opportunities will be added throughout the winter and into the spring.
CCPA Roosevelt (IL)
Photo Courtesy of Performing Arts Abroad
Photo Credits: top, Robert King Photography for LYNX National Arts and Media Camps
2nd photo from top – courtesy of Performing Arts Abroad.
Additional photos (unless otherwise noted): Robert King Photography
Brooke
This is perfect for me because I LOVE music with a passion but, I need to work on writing my own songs. I love all these opportunities.
Samuel
So, can you take a summer music program outside of your state if desired? Or does that vary from school to school?
MajoringInMusic
Absolutely! It really all depends on you – what kind of program you’re looking for, where you want to be geographically, whether you can afford out-of-state programs.
Dana
I play Tuba and I really want to be in a summer program where I’ll be able to play a lot better and learn more about music. Currently a sophomore in college majoring in music ed and I feel like I should learn new things outside of home so I can come back with a motivated mind set.
Kobe
I am 19 and am a freshman. I’ve played guitar for 8 years, drums for 4, but have only studied with a teacher for the last three months. How much skill is required to enter most summer music programs for drums? I’ve played rock up until I switched to jazz for the last couple months. Since I’ve started studying with a teacher I’ve been practicing on average 2 – 2.5 hours everyday. Any recommended programs?
MajoringInMusic
Definitely worth checking with the programs you’re interested in. Explore the many options on our list of summer programs, both close to home and in other states. Make a list of those that seem to be a good fit and compare. You eventually may have to call individual programs to fully understand what they can do for you. Many offer different levels of instruction to accommodate students of varying proficiency, with the goal of helping them rise to the next level. Your commitment to practicing will help you establish a solid foundation.
Cindy
My 15 year old sings and writes country music, also plays guitar. Is there a camp that suits aspiring country artists?
MajoringInMusic
We don’t know of any country music-specific programs but we suggest you check out songwriting and summer guitar programs – the skills learned will likely serve your student even if the program doesn’t focus specifically on country music.
Travis
Hello, my son will be 17 summer of 2015. He has had private lessons for about 8 years on drum set and has been playing in the schools jazz band for the last 5 years. He is looking at Berklees 5 week summer program. What are your opinions on Berklees program. He has done CWU jazz camp the last 2 summers and is really wanting an intense program going into his senior year as he will start auditioning for college. He is going to major in music performance or jazz.
Thanks,
Travis
MajoringInMusic
Rather than rank or evaluate programs, MajoringInMusic.com provides a wealth of information to empower students and parents to make smart choices and decisions based on their personal criteria. This is far more likely to result in a good fit. Look at the criteria listed on this section to get started. Our 2015 page, which will post beginning December 15, will include more detailed information. Also take a look at some of the articles under “Choosing Music Schools” – some of the same criteria apply for summer programs.
Bruce
My son has done the Berklee 5 week last summer as a Drum Performance major. It was overall a positive experience (he was an incoming 9th grader). He was put into two ensembles, one was not so challenging and less than stimulating, the other was with more experienced players and he found that one challenging and lots of fun. My biggest criticism was that each ensemble rehersed only twice per week. The rest of the time he was in elective classes, all important stuff (jazz history, music theory, musicianship training), but what he really wanted to do was rack up hours of ensemble experience with players that were at or above his level. He got to do this twice per week, 9 times total during the 5 weeks. That said, the experience of living in a dorm, having to advocate for himself, practice, play, etc, was amazing.
Sarah
I’m 19 and play piano organ and piano, but both at beginner level, in comparison to the best pianists/organists. I am DYING to study both INTENSELY over the summer. I also sing a lot and have very good choral technique but don’t have vibrato – I would also love to study voice intensely over the summer.
Are there any programs that would take beginners pianists/vocalists?
MajoringInMusic
Every program is different – some offer beginner lessons, while others are geared toward those much higher levels of expertise. We’ll be posting the 2015 programs beginning late December, with new programs added through the spring, so check back often. Also look at programs offered by community music schools in your area – most offer programs for children and adults at all levels.
Wendy
My daughter plays French horn and trumpet. We are interested in a summer music camp/ program in the southern California area.
MajoringInMusic
This page of Summer Camps & Programs is updated starting every December, but you can get a head start by visiting any of the links/programs on the right side of this page. New programs will be added through early spring 2015! For now, look under the California listings in the right column.
Mary
Hi! I’m interested in doing summer program in piano but I don’t actually have any idea about the procedure and which courses to choose since I’ve just recently starting to play. My intentions are doing a course in a good university/college in Manhattan or maybe Chicago or Boston. Can you pls suggest any also keeping in mind that I’m 15. Thanks!
MajoringInMusic
You’ll have lots of options. Summer programs offered on college campuses are a great way to get a taste of what a college environment is like and to familiarize yourself with a particular college setting. Pick a few programs in the list provided on this page from colleges that interest you. Get in touch with them a ask questions to start the ball rolling. And look for our 2015 page to be posted sometime in December. We suggest you consider a program that will also give you theory training, and opportunities to perform at whatever level you’re at.
Mary
My daughter plays piano, drums and sings. She is just starting guitar. We are looking for an opportunity for next summer with a rock/pop emphasis. Camps are okay, but college based would be better. Suggestions. International options would be great too. She will be 15 next summer.
MajoringInMusic
We assume you’ve already looked at the programs offered for this past summer – many of these will be offered again next summer. We’ll post next summer’s Music Camps & Programs page in late December. Programs will be added throughout winter and early spring, so be sure to visit often.
Steve
My daughter is interested in taking a term or year “away” from her high school. Do you know of schools offering music-voice-theater programs serving HS juniors? Thank you.
MajoringInMusic
Steve,
Our first thought is to look with your daughter at the boarding arts high schools that offer programs in which she’s looking to immerse herself. They’re known for doing an excellent job of preparing students for their next steps. And she wouldn’t have to lose a year of high school since she’d be taking her academic classes there as well. Two of those schools are participating on MajoringInMusic.com so you can easily view what they offer: Interlochen Arts Academy and Walnut Hill School for the Arts. Please let them know we referred you if you do follow up. They’ll be happy to talk with you. Other options are non-residential after school programs, non-residential arts high schools, and, of course, summer programs.
Theresa
Love the list of possibilities! However I noticed Georgia is missing from the state listings, so I thought I would share that the University of Georgia provided a fabulous band camp experience for my daughter, an experiemced trumpet player this past summer. She will be returning next year.
MajoringInMusic
Thanks for your input, Theresa! Glad to hear your daughter had such a positive experience. We’ll talk with UGA about getting their program up on our summer page for 2015.
Lisa Buck
My son is a high school junior and interested in studying music composition in college. He would like to attend a summer program specifically for music composition that will give him the opportunity to start composing and recording his own pieces.
Do you have recommendations on any programs?
MajoringInMusic
Programs we work with that offer composing in the summer include: Lamont School of Music Summer Academy, Long Lake Camp, Rocky Ridge Music Center, Interlochen, The Walden School Young Musicians Program, Ithaca College Summer Music Academy, U of North Carolina School of the Arts Summer Music Programs, Cornish College of the Arts. If your son is interested in popular music and songwriting, have him check Leeds College of Music, Interlochen, U of Colorado Denver Summer Music Industry Program.
Tina
My son would like to go to a residential music camp this summer. Where can I find comments or reviews by participants so that we can help him select tht one that best fits him and guide him as to what to expect?
MajoringInMusic
We suggest you start by looking at the various camps and programs on this page to see what interests your son. Some of their websites do have testimonials from former campers and families. You and your son can also contact any of the programs that interest him, and ask them any and all questions that aren’t already answered on their websites. Also get some names and contact information for recent attendees. Then contact the parents and see if their kids would be willing to have a conversation with your son.
Remember that no two people will have the exact same reaction to a program, but you can glean good information by asking the kinds of questions that will help you both in the decision-making process.
lorraine
I have a 16 year-old Saxophonist. Do you have any classes in Phoenix. She’s in marching band for 3 yrs, jazz for 2 and elementary band for 4 yrs. She reads music and would like to learn more about jazz. Thank you
MajoringInMusic
Some suggestions as to where to look for summer jazz programs in your area:
1. Jazz in Arizona/The Nash (www.thenash.org) – look for their summer jazz programs by mid-April.
2. Community colleges in the area (Paradise Valley, Maricopa, Scottsdale).
3. Community music schools in Phoenix, such as Phoenix Center for the Arts.
Also check the state-by-state list of programs on this page to also learn about excellent jazz programs outside your area.
Pam
My 16 year old son would like a camp where he will get vocal and songwriting instruction. He is also interested in recording. Mostly this summer he wants to go someplace where he can grow his skills. He made the ACDA honor’s choir at the State level this year and he writes music/songs on a regular basis but he wants to be better at both. He taught himself guitar and he took piano lessons for years and does mostly improv and piano to supplement his singing now. We live in California but aren’t opposed to traveling. Any ideas?
MajoringInMusic
Programs we’re working with this year that offer what your son is looking for include: Idyllwild Arts (CA), Interlochen (MI), Stanford Jazz Workshop Jazz Institute (Songwriting, CA), University of the Pacific (Pacific Music Business Camp. CA), University of Colorado Summer Music Industry Program (Songwriting, CO), Cornish College of the Arts (WA).
Check them out on this Summer Music Camps & Programs page!
CJ Fam
Also look into the NYU beginning and advanced summer songwriting intensives. The classes are great.
Mellisa
My son wants to go to a music program in Italy this summer but doesn’t know any one else who wants to go with him. Can you help me think this out? Would he be better off waiting until he can maybe go with a group of students from his school?
MajoringInMusic
Summer music programs in other countries offer wonderful opportunities for students who are ready for them. There are some advantages to not going with a school group and your son will certainly meet people wherever he goes. Find out everything you can about supervision, lodging, language support, private instruction, cultural opportunities, etc. Ask for contact information for a few families whose children have attended the programs your son is interested in so you can get some more objective feedback about those programs.
Kreston
I am looking for a summer music program for my middle schooler who plays saxophone. He will be going into the 8th grade next year. I would like to find a place that is in the Southeast that also offers Graduate for musicians. I have my bachelor’s for the University of Memphis. I would like to get started on my Grad degree on saxophone. May not be possible to pull this off, but I thought I would ask. Memphis does not offer a summer program.
MajoringInMusic
Stay tuned for the 2014 Summer Music Camps & Programs information! Posting of programs will start mid-December and will be accessed from the homepage.
And…how far are you willing/able to travel?
Note that if you’re interested in blues, check out Fernando Jones’ Blues Camp for your son. He’ll bring a blues camp your way if you can facilitate the process.
Andy
I know summer is almost over but maybe for next year… Summer camps other than the ones listed for a High School Student in Los Angeles? Thank you!
MajoringInMusic
Thanks, Andy, for your comment. If you’ll give us an idea of what type of music and what kind of programs would interest you, we’ll do our best to scout them out for next season.
Nick
Hi! I was wondering what information you had on summer programs in Pennsylvania or relatively close to it. Thanks!
MajoringInMusic
Nick,
In the state-by-state listing over on the right of this page, you’ll see excellent music programs with different focuses, in Pennsylvania (at Temple and Penn State) and surrounding states (Ohio, New York). You’ll notice that several programs are offered through the music schools and departments at universities.
Ingrid
I am interested in summer programs in music for high school students in New York City. Any information you have would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your time.
MajoringInMusic
Ingrid,
We’re honored to be working with excellent programs in New York. You don’t state what area of music you’re looking for, but check these out:
• The New York Jazz Academy (Manhattan) is a place for jazz – all instruments, all level. Queens College’s Aaron Copland School of Music has a great Summer Vocal Institute.
Other NY programs outside the city but worth looking at:
• Eastern U.S. Music Camp at Colgate University
(wind & chamber ensembles, jazz, voice, orchestra, piano, guitar (jazz, rock, classical)
• Fredonia Summer Music Festival (SUNY Fredonia – Fredonia, NY)
(winds, brass & percussion high school students
• French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts (Catskills)
jazz (all instruments, voice), Classical (all instruments, voice)
• Ithaca College Summer Music Academy (Ithaca, NY)
(wind ensemble, orchestra, voice, jazz, classical guitar)
• Long Lake Camp for the Arts (Adirondacks)
(all instruments, all styles + rock)
• Skidmore Jazz Institute (Saratoga Springs)
(jazz performance, recording)
• Syracuse Summer Programs (Syracuse, NY)
(recording studio tech., musical theatre, girls leadership academy)