When it comes to recruiting potential music majors, the path to success lies in the realm of All-State and All-District performers, particularly those who have also attended extended week music camps. A groundbreaking study has shed light on a compelling correlation, revealing that a staggering 84% of band, orchestra, and choir students who partake in these immersive camps had already achieved the prestigious title of All-State or All-District performer the previous academic year. With this revelation, it becomes evident that these talented individuals represent a prime pool of candidates eagerly sought after by school of music recruiters.

The allure of All-State and All-District performers in the pursuit of music majors cannot be understated. The research paints a vivid picture, indicating that 76% of all All-State performers seriously consider majoring in music. In fact, those who have graced All-State ensembles since their sophomore year spend an average of six hours per month meticulously scouring the vast expanse of online resources, exploring college, university, and conservatory music programs that align with their career aspirations. Astonishingly, for those consistent All-State performers who have achieved this distinction since the tender age of 8th grade, a resounding 88% consider majoring in music a formidable possibility for their collegiate journey. Remarkably, this group of dedicated musicians devotes a staggering number of hours per month—none other than an impressive average of nine—towards researching their potential collegiate options in pursuit of their musical passions. Furthermore, these All-State performers, particularly those in the esteemed first section, cast their gaze nationally, seeking the best opportunities for their musical endeavors.

Several states stand out as hotbeds of All-State auditioners, showcasing their exceptional talent on the grand stage. Texas, Florida, New York, California, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Arizona, Pennsylvania, Iowa, Michigan, and Virginia claim the limelight with their high number of All-State performers. In some of these states, the sheer competitiveness and prestige associated with making an All-Region or All-District ensemble rival that of making an All-State ensemble in other states.

Enter the extended summer week camps, which attract the cream of the crop among high school performers across America. These camps, despite their diverse offerings, share a common requirement: an audition for admission. It comes as no surprise that those students who have diligently prepared for their All-State auditions fare exceptionally well in these extended week camp auditions. Indeed, the research confirms that 84% of students who attend these camps, be it for band, orchestra, or choir, have already proven their mettle as All-State or All-District performers in their respective states during the previous academic year.

For music recruiters, identifying the most promising candidates means closely examining a selection of extended week camps that consistently produce outstanding performers. The list is illustrious: Interlochen Center for the Arts, National Symphony Orchestra Summer Music Institute, Brevard Music Center, Sphinx Performance Academy, Aspen Festival, Tanglewood Institute, Stanford Jazz Festival, Berklee ASPIRE Music Performance Intensive, Meadowmount School of Music, Idyllwild Arts Summer Program, Round Top Festival Institute, Blue Lakes Music Camps, Bowdoin International Music Festival, Summer Performing Arts with Juilliard at Nord Anglia Schools, Music Academy of the West, Oklahoma City University's High School Musical Theater Intensive, and the Eastern Music Festival. Undoubtedly, numerous other extended summer music camps, particularly those held on college and university campuses, deserve consideration. Additionally, the students attending various Governor's School for the Arts programs across the nation present another cohort of summer performers worthy of high regard.

In essence, the realm of All-State and All-District performers seamlessly intertwines with that of extended week summer camps, creating an environment ripe for nurturing future music majors. Notably, the conductors of ensembles at these camps often preside over All-State and All-District ensembles as well. Thus, the cross-pollination between All-State, All-District, and extended week camps engenders a fertile ground for harvesting the next generation of music majors.

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