In America each summer there are thousands of music camps, enrichment experiences, master classes, intensives, and summer stocks. These experiences are primarily sponsored by college and universities and held on-campus. Usually, no audition is required for acceptance, admission is granted upon application and payment of associated fees. The roles of administrator, ensemble director, theory professor, and private lesson instructors for each instrument or voice part are assumed by the same university faculty you will encounter during the academic year.  

These camps usually go for one week, sometimes two, and conclude with a large, ensemble concert. The number one purpose of these on-campus camps is exposure to the college or university and their recruitment efforts. Yes, you are paying for their recruiting opportunity. These camps have their place and are very positive experiences for many students.

There is another set of camps that are extended-week camps and are most often held in privately owned facilities. These camps can be sponsored by, and held on the campus of, a private foundation, a professional performing organization, or a controlling music association for three to five weeks…sometimes even up to seven weeks. These student campers must apply and attend a live audition or submit an online video audition. Traditionally they come from across America, or often from foreign counties, and have demonstrated a certain level of performance proficiency in order to even be considered for this opportunity. The faculty and directors of these camps come from the most renowned professional performing organizations in America and the world. They have been well vetted before they are selected to serve in their prospective roles and are well respected in their field. The camper's experience here is more individually focused with intensive instruction in private studio lessons and music theory advancing each student’s progress personally. These campers will perform in large and small chamber ensembles, as well as performing as soloists.    

Attendance at one of these extended-week camps gives the campers numerous advantages in collegiate selection consideration on most campuses. First and foremost, music department recruiters parallel these camps with the actual collegiate experience. These campers have had to apply and audition for their spot from a pool of excellent student performers from their own town, state, and all across the United States, and even the world. In order to be considered, they had to follow specific performance audition requirements and take a music theory placement test, a personal interview, and supply references. This mirrors the collegiate application and audition process.  Second, these student campers must learn to assimilate themselves into a well-defined culture historically noted for its excellent individual lesson, practice, recital, and performance rigors. These campers will quickly discover whether they will sink or swim in this environment. Third, there is daily competition among the campers for performance opportunities, recognition in theory and composition, and leadership roles in chamber ensembles. These defining aspects inspire these campers to demonstrate their capacity for excellence and create prime candidates for acceptance in any collegiate institution.

Other advantages of attending an extended week camp are these camps are highly scouted by schools of music recruiters, and most have a college fair day or weekend for personal interchanges between the camper, the camper’s family, and the institutions represented. Also, because of their extended time together these campers and faculty will have an opportunity to get to know each other on a deeper level. Campers can establish relationships with faculty members who represent their colleges, universities or conservatories across the country and globe. This gives the camper the opportunity to be on a recruiting track before senior year. Research reveals that the campers at these camps are some of the first recruited applicants in America, and historically receive greater consideration for institutional scholarships. Research from a leading Midwest university found that the campers who attended one of these prestigious camps received an average 68% reduction in tuition and room and board all four years of the collegiate experience. Admittedly, attending one of these extended camps can be expensive but it is like investing money in a fast-earning CD that can be cashed in through collegiate benefits. 

In summary, extended-week music camps offer aspiring musicians a transformative experience. With renowned faculty, intense training, and opportunities for personal growth, these camps provide collegiate advantages and connections. The investment pays off with reduced tuition and scholarships. Discover the enchanting world of extended-week music camps and unlock a harmonious future.

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