Best Summer Arts Programs? Our Picks For 2023!

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Please note that some details for the programs listed below may change due to COVID-19. Be sure to click the links listed at the end of each program’s description to go directly to their website and read the most up to date information.

Personally selected and highly rated programs by ArtsBridge students & faculty.

Summer programs come in all shapes and sizes for visual and performing arts. So it really helps to know your options and have a list of recommendations. That’s why the ArtsBridge community has weighed in on our top selections for 2023 programs ranging from days to weeks in categories such as acting, dance, music, musical theater, and visual arts. Of course our own ArtsBridge Summer programs get rave reviews, but many of our students attend more than one program. While this is not a complete list, we hope it can help you identify the offerings that best suit you.

Keep in mind that wherever you decide to apply, deadlines are looming! Don’t wait to decide what to do with your summer —you don’t want to be left home on the couch.

A special shout out to ArtsBridge Summer attendees and everyone in the ArtsBridge community who contributed to this list of amazing programs! And if you need additional help, you should look into our college consulting services and get in touch!

Acting/Musical Theater Summer Programs

ArtsBridge Summer Dramatic Acting — Our two-week intensive prepares serious high school students for conservatory-style actor training and delivers the type of rigorous instruction found in top college programs. This program is designed to explore vital acting techniques, improve vocal and physical instruments, and get students prepared for the college audition process. Classes are taught by faculty from top colleges, conservatories, and universities from across the country. Summer 2023 in Berea, OH. Learn more

ArtsBridge Summer Musical Theater (& Musical Theater 2) — Our two-week intensive provides specialized guidance on what it takes to be a theater artist, from acting to song & dance with a particular focus on college admission in the performing arts. Students looking to major or minor in musical theater learn how to make the right college choice while gaining great insight into auditions and applications as well as technique and repertoire. Classes are taught by faculty from top colleges, conservatories, and universities from across the country. Musical Theater is open to rising high school seniors and Musical Theater 2 is open to rising high school juniors and sophomores. Summer 2023 in Berea, OH. Learn more

AMDA High School Summer Conservatory — AMDA’s High School Summer Conservatory offers intensives in Musical Theatre and Acting for Stage and Screen. Musical Theatre students expand their vocal performance skills and develop their audition book. Additionally, they train with experienced Broadway performers and directors. Acting for Stage and Screen students study new texts and playwrights, work with AMDA’s faculty and working artists, and leave the program with an on-camera scene for their reel. Both programs are open to high school students completing grades 8-12 and ages 14-19. Summer 2023 online & in New York City & Los Angeles, CA. Learn more

Berklee College of Music, Musical Theater Workshop — Berklee’s Musical Theater Workshop is a rigorous, five-day course with professional-level training in voice, dance, acting, and audition technique. All students ages 15 and older with a background in musical theatre can register. Students take core classes in dance, acting, and voice in the mornings, and spend the afternoons in elective and audition technique classes, and the evenings are spent in ensemble rehearsals preparing for the final showcase. Summer 2023 in Boston, MA. Learn more

Boston Conservatory, Musical Theater Acting Intensive (MTAI) — Boston Conservatory’s Musical Theater Acting Intensive is a rigorous, three-week program designed for emerging theater artists, ages 15 to 25. Students delve deep into the complex art of character development, with intensive studies in acting, singing, and movement. Students explore classical and contemporary repertoire, with daily classes in subjects ranging from Shakespeare to clowning to pop and rock vocal techniques. Throughout the three weeks, students will refine one to two audition pieces, so that they leave the program with the skills and confidence needed to nail their next audition. Summer 2023 in Boston, MA. Learn more

Boston Conservatory, Musical Theater Dance Intensive (MTDI) — Boston Conservatory’s Musical Theater Dance Intensive offers talented young dancers the opportunity to deepen their skills and challenge their abilities as they work with Broadway veterans and acclaimed faculty in rigorous training in ballet, jazz, and theater dance. The dance program is complemented with classes in voice and acting to build triple-threat performers. Students will emerge from this three-week intensive with increased technical abilities in ballet, jazz, and theater dance, improved skills in choral ensemble work, and greater confidence in and understanding of acting skills and how they apply to “acting the song.” Students between the ages of 15 and 25 with significant dance experience are encouraged to apply. Summer 2023 in Boston, MA. Learn more

Boston University Summer Theatre Institute (BUSTI) — This immersive, five-week program is designed to emulate the freshman BFA experience. It focuses on performance training and theatre-making for serious and highly-motivated high school students. Students will test their interests and abilities in a professional training environment. Coursework includes acting, design, theatre for social change, improvisation, masterclasses, and the creation of an original piece of theatre with members of their ensemble. BUSTI students earn four college credits for their coursework. Summer 2023 in Boston, MA. Learn more

Broadway Artists Alliance Summer Intensives — BAA offers five, one-week summer intensives for students with a strong technical foundation who want to expand and refine their skills. Students attend advanced Master Classes in their Major (Voice, Acting or Dance) and choose from additional electives to develop their talents. Sessions One, Two, Three, and Five each culminate in an industry showcase where students perform a solo piece for NYC’s top casting directors, agents, and managers, and receive individual feedback. Session Four concludes with a fully staged showcase in an off-Broadway theater where students will perform a solo piece for an invited audience of family and friends, as well as NYC’s top casting directors, agents, and managers. Summer 2023 in New York, NY. Learn More

BroadwayEvolved NYC Summer Intensive — The Summer Intensive offers students 4 days of personalized training that covers acting, dance, vocal health, personal growth and development, college prep, audition prep, and more. The program is open to students ages 14 to 18. Summer 2023 in New York, NY. Learn More

Carnegie Mellon University, Pre-College Drama — This 6-week program offers focuses in Acting, Music Theater., and Design/Production. With a wide variety of classroom projects, workshops, lectures and demonstrations, and master classes, students, students prepare for the college audition and interview process. Acting and Musical Theater students enter the college application/audition process with a repertoire of monologues and songs and the skills needed to find appropriate material. Design/Production students leave the program with the beginning of a portfolio which they can continue to build for college applications. Summer 2023 in Pittsburgh, PA. Learn more

The College Audition Conservatory — This 8-day college audition preparatory program gives students the opportunity to work with faculty from ten of the top university and college musical theatre programs in the country. Students and their parents attend masterclasses, workshops, seminars, and mock auditions. Summer 2023 in Pittsburgh, PA. Learn more

Emerson College, Pre-College Acting Studio — This five-week program, which qualifies for four college credits, offers an introduction to acting training including classes in voice, movement, improvisation, scene study, auditioning technique/monologues, and stage combat. Classes are taught by Emerson’s Acting faculty, with additional specialty master classes offered by local professionals. Rising high school juniors and seniors who have the desire and maturity to receive constructive criticism about their work and give helpful feedback to others are encouraged to apply. Summer 2023 in Boston, MA. Learn more

Emerson College, Pre-College Musical Theatre Studio — This five-week program, which qualifies for four college credits, offers rising high school juniors and seniors intense technique-based training to strengthen singing, acting, dance, and song interpretation. With its emphasis on process, the program mimics the training in the Emerson BFA Musical Theatre Program. Summer 2023 in Boston, MA. Learn more

Florida State University, Summer Music Theatre Intensiv(MTI) — This intense 3-week summer workshop for rising high school juniors and seniors is designed for high school students that intend to pursue a degree or career in music theatre. Faculty for the program include the Program Heads of Florida State’s Music Theatre and Acting programs, faculty from their School of Theatre, and accomplished alumni. The program culminates in a final cabaret that is open to the public. Summer 2023 in Tallahassee, FL. Learn more

French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts — French Woods is an individual choice performing arts summer camp serving ages 7 to 17. They offer programs in theater, dance, music, circus, magic, rock and roll, visual arts, film and video, sports, tennis, fitness, water sports, skate board, horseback riding, and more. Younger campers have more guidance and supervision, while older campers are able to take on some responsibility and have a chance to work in the areas of their interest. Campers participate in full scale productions and can take classes in improvisation, acting technique, commercial technique, creative writing, directing, dialects, musical theater, Shakespeare, stage combat, scene study, theatre games and more. Summer 2023 in Hancock, NY. Learn more

Idyllwild Arts Teens & Kids Summer Program — Idyllwild Arts Academy hosts fantastic 2-week summer arts camp experiences for ages 5 to 18. Their programs for high school theater artists include The Summer Show: Musical Theater Intensive, Theater Intensive: The Play’s The Thing!, and Film: Acting for the Camera Intensive. Summer 2023 in Idyllwild, CA. Learn more

Interlochen Arts Camp  Interlochen offers an impressive selection of summer theatre programs ranging from one to six weeks in length for students grades 3 to 12. Program areas for high school students include musical theatre, acting, costume design, design and production, and repertory theatre. Summer 2023 in Interlochen, MI. Learn more

Ithaca College Summer Theatre Intensive — At Ithaca College’s three-week intensive, students can choose between three tracks: Acting, Musical Theatre, and Playwriting and Dramaturgy. During the program, which qualifies for 3 college credits, students experience college life and college-level courses, honing their skills in acting, singing, and dancing. The program also includes preparation for the college audition and interview process. Summer 2023 in Ithaca. NY. Learn more

La Jolla Playhouse Conservatory — La Jolla Playhouse offers students grades 10 to 12 this intensive five-week experience to build the skills required by top college theatre programs. Students receive professional training in acting, scene study, voice and speech, ensemble-devised performance, and movement. During the program, students attend master classes with Playhouse artists, see world-premiere plays, engage with designer presentations, listen to first rehearsal read-throughs, and watch technical rehearsals of Playhouse shows. Summer 2023 in La Jolla, CA. Learn more

Marymount Manhattan, Musical Theatre Program  — The Musical Theatre Program provides each student with individualized coaching, as well as a supportive learning community of students and theatre professionals. The two-week program gives students the tools to analyze a script and song, make informed acting choices, use music to propel the story, and understand the techniques required to create a digital pre-screen. The curriculum includes college audition prep, daily dance warm-up, musical theatre history, music fundamentals and analysis, panel discussions with MCC alumni and current students, Broadway guest seminars, optional private voice lessons, group viewings of Broadway shows, and a final showing for friends and family. Summer 2023 in New York, NY. Learn more

The Muny Summer Intensive — This three-week program invites 12 rising high school junior and seniors to an immersive experience at a professional theater. In the first half of the Intensive, students prepare to perform in a Muny production, rehearsing alongside the professional cast. In master classes, students learn from industry professionals. In the second half of the Intensive, students take classes in song study, acting, musical theatre dance, improv and audition technique with college faculty. Summer 2023 in St Louis, MO. Learn more

Neighborhood Playhouse, Six Week Summer Acting Intensive — The Summer Acting Intensive is modeled after Neighborhood Playhouse’s full-time Two Year Certificate Professional Actor Training Conservatory. This summer intensive is open to students of all ages and varying levels of experience and training. Students experience six weeks of training in the foundations of the Meisner Technique. Coursework includes acting, voice and speech, acting for camera, and dance. Summer 2023 in New York, NY. Learn more

Northwestern University, National High School Institute (Cherubs) — The Theatre Arts Division is an immersive, hands-on exploration into stage performance and production. A rigorous combination of classes and rehearsals provide students with a challenging and inspiring learning environment every day for 5 to 7 weeks. Working with professional theatre practitioners from around the country, students receive extraordinary training in a collaborative and supportive environment. Every student performs in one of the final performances at the end of the program. Summer 2023 in Evanston, IL. Learn more

NYU, Steinhardt, NYU Summer Music Theatre Workshop — In this two-week intensive workshop, students explore music theatre performance techniques from the perspective of an actor, singer, and dancer. Activities include acting, song analysis and dance classes, choreography and musical staging rehearsals, private voice lessons and coachings, as well as master classes on auditioning, utilizing technology, vocal function, and a panel discussion with alumni artists currently working in the field. The workshop culminates with a showcase presentation in which students perform the material they have been working on in class. Summer 2023 in New York, NY. Learn more

NYU, Tisch, Summer High School — In each four-week program, students are enrolled in college-level courses with a curriculum that includes projects, professional training, and collaboration. The summer program is open to high school sophomores and juniors from around the world. Artistic tracks of interest to theater students include Dance, Drama, Production & Design, and Dramatic Writing. Summer 2023 in New York, NY. Learn more

Oklahoma City University, High School Musical Theater Program — In this three-week program, students in grades 9 to 12 experience the life of college musical theatre major with master classes from OCU faculty, live auditions, and live dance placements. Students have an intense daily schedule, learning and performing a fully-staged musical in just three weeks. Summer 2023 in Oklahoma City, OK. Learn more

Open Jar Institute, Broadway Summer Intensive — During this week-long intensive, students learn directly from Broadway professionals in workshops in acting, singing, dancing, and audition technique. Students learn dance combinations from Broadway shows, take acting classes, work their audition songs, meet with casting directors and agents, and see four Broadway shows. Summer 2023 in New York, NY. Learn more

Paper Mill Playhouse, Summer Musical Theater Conservatory — In this demanding five-week program, students ages 10-18 build their professional skills under the guidance of Paper Mill’s professional artistic staff. The curriculum includes classes in acting, auditioning, vocal technique, and dance as well as a series of guest artist workshops. The program enhances performance skills and instills the technique, discipline, and professionalism needed to excel in the performing arts. Summer 2023 in Milburn, NJ. Learn more

Penn State University, Summer Theatre Artistic Training Experience (S.T.A.T.E.)  An intensive two-week musical theatre summer program for rising high school juniors and seniors. Students train in voice, acting, and dance with with Penn State’s Musical Theatre faculty, guest professionals, and notable alumni. The curriculum also includes private instruction, studio classes, master classes, and cabarets. Summer 2023 in University Park, PA. Learn more

The Performing Arts Project (TPAP)  These summer intensives are located on the campus of Wake Forest University. Blueprint is a two-week program for students ages 14 to 18, focusing on technique and audition preparation. Panorama is a three-week program for students ages 16 to 25, focusing on developing creativity and artistry within a technical framework. Both programs focus on acting, singing, and dancing. Summer 2023 in Winston-Salem, NC. Learn more

Perry-Mansfield Intensives — Perry-Mansfield offers two summer theater intensives for high school aged artists: a four-week Young Artist Intensive for students ages 12 to 15 and a six-week Pre-Professional Intensive for students ages 15 to 18.  Students study with some of the nation’s finest theatre professionals and teachers and are featured in theatrical productions. In addition to classes, students select from a range of electives to further explore their craft and compliment their training. Evening rehearsals and performances prepare actors for the rigor and artistic range required in today’s demanding professional world. Summer 2023 in Steamboat Springs, CO. Learn more

Southeastern Summer Theater Institute (SSTI) — SSTI offers two sessions of their four-week program for students in grades 8-12. Each sessions includes three weeks of rehearsal and performance and one week of master classes with college and professional coaches The program features small session sizes, professionally crafted productions, hands-on technical theatre intensives, and masterclasses with Broadway stars. Summer 2023 in Hilton Head Island, SC. Learn more

Stagedoor Manor — Experience total theater immersion combined with the fun of a great summer camp. With 3-week sessions, young performers, ages 10 to 18, find expression and fulfillment on stage and in the classroom. Summer 2023 in Loch Sheldrake, NY. Learn more

Stella Adler, Teen Summer Conservatory — The Stella Adler Studio of Acting offers this rigorous five-week acting program for students ages 14-18. Based on the insight that “growth as an actor and growth as a human being are synonymous,” students are acquainted not only with core elements of actor training but with the artistic, cultural and humanistic values that support a life in the theater and film. The curriculum includes classes in voice and speech, movement, improvisation, script interpretation, scene study, Shakespeare and acting technique as well as additional master classes. Stella Adler also offers a five-week Musical Theater Workshop that can be taken in addition to the Teen Summer Conservatory or by itself. Summer 2023 in New York, NY. Learn more

Syracuse University, Summer College: Musical Theater — This 2-week, pre-college program for rising high school juniors and seniors develops the abilities of experienced performers who are serious about musical theater and eager to work hard. Students grow creatively in the areas of acting, singing, and dance under the direction of acclaimed professional performers and teachers. Summer 2023 in Syracuse, NY. Learn more

Texas State University, NEXUS Musical Theatre Pre-College Intensive — Nexus offers holistic, wellness-based training in musical theatre performance to prepare students for four-year training programs and professional work. The curriculum includes OneVoice Workshops, acting classes, monologue and song coaching, dance classes, audition prep, and a variety of wellness and performance workshops. Summer 2023 in San Marcos, TX. Learn more

UCLA, Acting and Performance Summer Institute — UCLA offers this three-week intensive for high school students with a serious interest in theater arts. Students begin their days with tai-chi exercises, followed by acting and movement classes. Additional classes include classical acting, combat, acting for the camera, and playwriting. In the afternoon, students participate in the performance workshop, gaining experience in the rehearsal and performance process. The program ends with a final showcase for invited guests. Students earn four college credits. Summer 2023 in Los Angeles, CA. Learn more

University of Cincinnati, College Conservatory of Music (CCM), Musical Theatre Workshop CCM Prep’s Summer Musical Theatre Workshop is designed for talented, motivated and dedicated high school students, rising sophomores through seniors, who have a strong interest in and passion for musical theatre. Voice, dance, and acting are taught by conservatory faculty and local professionals as well as faculty of CCM Prep. Auditions are required. Summer 2023 in Cincinnati, OH. Learn more

University of Michigan, MPulse Summer Performing Arts Institutes  — MPulse provides residential summer programs for over 200 young artists who intend to pursue music performance, theatre, music technology, dance, and musical theatre at the college level. This year the theater institutes offered include the Musical Theater Workshop and the Theater & Drama Academy (with tracks in Performance and Design & Production). The Theatre & Drama Academy is open to rising high school juniors and seniors. The Musical Theatre Workshop is open to rising high school seniors, although applications from rising high school juniors of exceptional ability may also be considered. Summer 2023 in Ann Arbor, MI. Learn more

University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Drama Summer Intensive — Faculty members of UNCSA’s renowned School of Drama, along with distinguished guest artists, are the instructors in this 3-week summer intensive. Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors with passion and the desire to be immersed in the fundamentals of acting, singing, and dancing are eligible to apply. Both Acting and Musical Theatre tracks are offered. Summer 2023 in Winston-Salem, NC. Learn more

University of Southern California, High School Summer Conservatory — The USC School of the Dramatic Arts offers three different four-week programs as part of their High School Summer Conservatory: Acting Intensive, Comedy Performance, and Musical Theatre. In all three programs, high school students have the opportunity to work with theatre professionals and explore creative experiences in the dramatic arts. Summer 2023 in Los Angeles, CA. Learn more

Visual Arts Summer Programs

Boston University, Visual Arts Summer Institute (VASI) – The Boston University School of Visual Arts’ Summer Institute offers high school students, ages 15 to 18, an intensive four-week visual arts program designed to help students build exceptional portfolios. The curriculum is modeled after the foundational courses of Boston University students and includes drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, mixed media figure drawing, art conversations, and special workshops. Students earn three college credits and leave the program with photographs of their work ready to be included in their portfolios. Summer 2023 in Boston, MA. Learn more

Carnegie Mellon University, Pre-College Art This four-week program for rising high school juniors and seniors introduces students to the spirit and substance of the CMU School of Art culture through challenging courses, critique, portfolio development, and energetic interaction with dedicated faculty and talented peers. Students explore traditional tools and new technologies in a variety of media, developing their conceptual and technical skills. Summer 2023 in Pittsburgh, PA. Learn more

French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts — French Woods is an individual choice performing arts summer camp serving ages 7 to 17. They offer programs in theater, dance, music, circus, magic, rock and roll, visual arts, film and video, sports, tennis, fitness, water sports, skate board, horseback riding, and more. Younger campers have more guidance and supervision, while older campers are able to take on some responsibility and have a chance to work in the areas of their interest. Campers interested in visual arts can take classes in drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, jewelry making, stained glass, screen printing, leather working, woodworking, and traditional crafts. Summer 2023 in Hancock, NY. Learn more

Idyllwild Arts Teens & Kids Summer Program — Idyllwild Arts Academy hosts fantastic 2-week summer arts camp experiences for ages 5 to 18, with offerings for visual arts students in a number of disciplines. High school-aged visual arts offerings include drawing and painting programs and an art exploration program that allows students to work in multiple disciplines including sculpture, painting, drawing, silk painting, basketry, musical instrument making, fabric art, bookmaking and found object assemblage. They also offer a fashion design intensive and a fashion portfolio program. Summer 2023 in Idyllwild, CA. Learn more

Interlochen Arts Camp — Interlochen offers an impressive selection of summer visual arts programs ranging from one to six weeks in length for students grades 3 to 12. Visual arts programs for students in grades 9-12 include drawing, painting, fashion, and college portfolio prep. Summer 2023 in Interlochen, MI. Learn more

Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), Summer Pre-College Art and Design Residency Program MICA’s program offers rising high school juniors and seniors a transformative, college-level art experience. The curriculum includes live instruction, independent studio time, community events, workshops, and artist talks. Course offerings include illustration, ceramics, fiber arts, graphic design, printmaking, fashion, drawing, painting, and more. Students can choose from two-week or four-week in-person sessions. Summer 2023 in Baltimore, MD. Learn more

Parsons School of Design, Youth & Pre-College Programs — The New School’s Parsons School of Design offers summer courses for high school artists, giving them to opportunity to work with Parsons faculty to develop their skills in a wide variety of fines arts and design. Courses include animation, architecture, fashion design, fine arts, game design, graphic design, illustration, interior design, photography, portfolio development, and more. Parsons offers four programs: Summer Intensive Studies New York, a 3-week, program for rising juniors and seniors, Summer Intensive Studies Paris, a 3-week program for rising juniors and seniors and recent graduates, Parsons Summer Academy, a 2-week program offered in New York for students in grades 3-12, and Online Summer Intensive Studies, a four-week program for students ages 16-18. Summer 2023 in New York, NY; Paris, France; and online. Learn more

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA), Summer Academy — PAFA’s four-week program provides talented and motivated high school students with a college-level art-making experience. Students take rigorous courses in drawing, painting, sculpting, and printmaking and have the opportunity to earn four college-level credits. Courses are taught by PAFA’s faculty of practicing artists and the final week includes an in-depth portfolio review with PAFA Admissions staff. Summer 2023 in Philadelphia, PA. Learn more

Pratt Institute, PreCollege Summer Program — In this 4-week program, high school students have an invaluable opportunity to develop technical skills, add to their portfolios, get a taste of college life, and earn elective college credits. Credit courses provide and introduction to Pratt’s undergraduate curriculum and are supplemented with workshops, seminars, and special events. Courses offered in the past include foundation art, architecture, animations, comic book/sequential art, creative writing, fashion design, film/video, painting & drawing, sculpture, graphic design, illustration, industrial design, interior design, jewelry, and photography. Summer 2023 in Brooklyn, NY. Learn more

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Pre-College — This six-week summer residential program offers high school students a comprehensive introduction to the college art school experience. Students follow a college-level studio curriculum with day-long studio classes, critiques, and final projects. Students strengthen their portfolios with guidance from renowned instructors and working alongside other motivated young artists. Summer 2023 in Providence, RI. Learn more

School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), Early College Program Summer Institute – SAIC offers multiple sessions of their program for high school visual artists, ranging in one to four weeks. The program helps students prepare a competitive portfolio for college admission. Students have the opportunity to study with passionate teachers and acclaimed practicing artists, designers, and scholars, many of whom teach in the undergraduate program at SAIC. Many courses are offered in the areas of animation, painting, drawing, comics/graphic novels, architecture, photography, fashion, sculpture, and more. Summer 2023 both online and in Chicago, IL. Learn more about online or in-person

UCLA, Art Summer Institute — UCLA offers two sessions of this two-week intensive for talented and highly motivated students in grades 8-12. Each session is structured around a combination of daily, focused studio work, artist lectures, group critiques, and one-on-one meetings with faculty. Students may enroll in one or both two-week sessions and choose from tracks including Drawing, Painting, Photography, Sculpture, and Video Art & Experimental Animation. Summer 2023 both online and in Los Angeles, CA. Learn more

University of Michigan, Stamps School of Art & Design, Pre-College Portfolio Prep – Stamps is offering both online and in-person sessions of their Portfolio Prep program for current high school students grades 9-11. This intensive program is focused on developing and curating a competitive portfolio for college applications. Coursework reflects the structure and rigor of the first year undergraduate experience at Stamps. The curriculum includes four studio classes (Drawing Studio, 2D Studio, 3D Studio, & 4D Studio), portfolio reviews & guidance, and field trips to local museums and cultural institutions for in-person students. Summer 2023 both online and in Ann Arbor, MI. Learn more

Music Summer Programs

Vocal and Instrumental:

ArtsBridge Summer ArtSong — Spend two weeks with faculty from top college and conservatory voice programs concentrating on solo classical vocal skills within the art song repertoire. The curriculum stresses vocal technique, diction and language, repertoire, acting, and performance and audition skills as well as guest master classes and workshops on a range of musical topics and college/conservatory auditions. The final assessment for every student includes a written report with feedback from each member of the faculty. Summer 2023 in Berea, OH. Learn more

Aspen Music Festival and School (AMFS) — In addition to private instruction, many students rehearse and perform major orchestral repertoire side-by-side with their teachers and/or principal players from major orchestras, including those of New York, Vienna, Los Angeles, St. Louis, San Francisco, Cleveland, Chicago, and Philadelphia. Students in all programs can attend more than 400 performances, master classes, lectures, and panels. More than 600 students ranging in age from 10 to 37 attend from 40 states and 40 countries. Summer 2023 in Aspen, CO. Learn more

Berklee College of Music Summer Programs — Berklee offers a wide range of residential summer programs at both its Boston and Valencia, Spain campuses and in Los Angeles on the campus of the Colburn School. Explore the world of classical and contemporary music in your choice of medium: performance, composition, musical theatre, songwriting, technology — the list goes on! Berklee is also offering a selection of online summer courses. Summer 2023 in Boston, MA; Los Angeles, CA; and Valencia, Spain. Learn more

Boston Conservatory at Berklee, Vocal Choral Intensive (VCI) — A two-week summer program for high school-aged singers who are focused on musical theater or classical music. Taught by Conservatory faculty, the curriculum strengthens foundational and performance skills through classes in performance, Alexander Technique, repertoire, and theory and sight-singing, as well as coachings and voice lessons, Breathing Bootcamp, and a Shakespeare-centered acting project. Summer 2023 in Boston, MA. Learn more

Boston University Tanglewood Institute (BUTI) — Under the guidance of professional conductors, artists/teachers, and Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) members, students ages 14 to 20 experience high-quality training in a curriculum that includes a focus on the fundamentals of technique and musicianship, group masterclasses, individual lessons, academic classes, and performances. Areas of study include composition, harp, percussion, piano, strings, wind & brass, and voice. Summer 2023 in Lenox, MA. Learn more

Brevard Music Center (BMC) Summer Institute & Festival — More than 500 gifted students come to the Music Center every summer to study with a distinguished faculty of over 80 artists from the nation’s leading orchestras, colleges, and conservatories. Over the past eight decades, BMC has welcomed many of the world’s most famous musicians to perform with talented student orchestras. Students ages 14 and up learn by sitting with principal players from major symphonies, attending seminars with Grammy-winning composers, working with masterful conductors and soloists, and attending the nearly 80 performances presented each season. Summer 2023 in Brevard, NC. Learn more

Carnegie Mellon University, Pre-College Music — This program provides rising high school juniors and seniors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in conservatory-style training. The curriculum includes private studio lessons, major performing ensembles and music support courses. Students can choose either the 3-week or 6-week option and one of four major studios offered: Composition, Instrumental Performance, Music Technology/Electronic Music, and Vocal Performance. Residential full-time and commuter full-time and part-time options are available. Summer 2023 in Pittsburgh, PA. Learn more

Eastern Music Festival (EMF) — In this rigorous, experiential learning program, musicians ages 14-23 have the opportunity to learn and perform as well as to converse with faculty about the professional careers of musicians. EMF offers programs in several areas including Orchestra, Piano, Guitar, Conducting, and Euphonium Tuba as well as fellowships in strings, piano, and trombone for young professional musicians. Summer 2023 in Greensboro, NC. Learn more

Eastman School of Music, Eastman Experience: Summer Classical Studies — This 3-week residential program at the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music is open to inquisitive performers, conductors, and composers currently in grades 9 to 12 who are seriously considering a career in music. The program emphasizes solo performance (strings, winds, brass, piano, voice, classical guitar, harp, conducting, and composition) and chamber music. In addition to lessons and performance and master class opportunities, students delve into music academics with courses in music theory, history, aural skills, and even career seminars. Summer 2023 in Rochester, NY. Learn more

French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts — French Woods is an individual choice performing arts summer camp serving ages 7 to 17. They offer programs in theater, dance, music, circus, magic, rock and roll, visual arts, film and video, sports, tennis, fitness, water sports, skate board, horseback riding, and more. Younger campers have more guidance and supervision, while older campers are able to take on some responsibility and have a chance to work in the areas of their interest. Students are given instruction on all levels and perform in ensembles based on their age/ability and schedule. Both group and individual private lessons are available from the staff for all orchestral instruments. Summer 2023 in Hancock, NY. Learn more

Greenwood Music Camp, Senior Camp — This five-week chamber music program has been enriching the lives of young people and encouraging them to realize their potential as musical, intellectual and social beings since 1933. The Senior Camp is open to students ages 13 to 18 with prior chamber music and orchestral experience. Summer 2023 in Cummington, MA. Learn more

Idyllwild Arts Teens & Kids Summer Program — Idyllwild Arts Academy hosts fantastic 2-week summer arts camp experiences for ages 5 to 18, with a diverse range of music programs to choose from. High school-aged music programs include piano performance, chamber music, jazz, and songwriting. Summer 2023 in Idyllwild, CA. Learn more

Interlochen Arts Camp — Live, learn and perform with young musicians from all over the world, in this program led by a distinguished faculty and renowned conductors. Interlochen offers music programs for grades three through 12. High school students can attend a variety of one to six-week programs in most orchestral instruments as well as programs for voice, jazz piano, jazz performance and improvisation, music composition, music production and engineering, popular music performance, singer-songwriting, and voice and opera. Summer 2023 in Interlochen, MI. Learn more

Kinhaven Music School, Senior Session — At Kinhaven’s Senior Session, ninety high-school-aged musicians are challenged by a variety of repertoire as they gather for six weeks to play chamber music, chamber orchestra, symphony orchestra, and large ensembles. The program also includes private music lessons, large and small chorales, and other recreational activities. Students  experience community, shared learning, and mutual support in an encouraging environment. Kinhaven also offers programs for middle school students and adults. Summer 2023 in Weston, VT. Learn more

Meadowmount School of Music — This seven-week program for exceptional violin, viola, and cello players balances intense practice and physical recreation to ensure that students remain focused and productive. An emphasis on chamber music provides social interaction and personal development in an artistic context. The curriculum includes private lessons and practice time, concerts, chamber music coaching, chamber music rehearsals, studio classes, rehearsals with accompanists, master classes, and off-campus recreational activities. Summer 2023 in Westport, NY. Learn more

MPulse Summer Performing Arts Institutes (University of Michigan) — MPulse provides residential summer programs for over 200 young artists who intend to pursue music performance, theatre, music technology, dance, and musical theatre at the college level. This year the vocal and instrumental institutes offered include Center Stage Strings, Clarinet, Flute, Harp, Jazz, Percussion, Saxophone, and Vocal Arts. Summer 2023 in Ann Arbor, MI. Learn more

NYU Steinhardt, Classical Vocal Intensive — This two-week program employs both group and individual instruction, allowing students to explore the techniques of classical vocal performance from multiple perspectives. The curriculum includes private lessons, classes in vocal technique, lyric diction, repertoire, and interpretation, and master classes in additional areas. Students who successfully complete the summer workshop and apply for 2022 Fall admission are advanced to a live audition and not required to submit a pre-screen audition. This applies to transfer students, undergraduate regular, and early decision applicants. Summer 2023 in New York, NY. Learn more

Jazz/Contemporary Music:

Berklee College of Music, Aspire: Five-Week Music Performance Intensive — Berklee’s Five Week is the largest, most comprehensive summer music program available with diversity of study options, world-class faculty, visiting artists, and state-of-the-art facilities. Students play in ensembles, develop improvisational and reading skills, and improve their technique in weekly private lessons. The program culminates with a final week of concerts where students perform for faculty, fellow students, family, and friends. Students can earn three college credits. Summer 2023 in Boston, MA. Learn more

Skidmore Jazz Institute — The institute provides a new generation of musicians the opportunity to mingle with and learn from gifted educators and world-class performers in an intimate and supportive environment. Students work closely with faculty in daily combo rehearsals, private lessons, and improvisational and special classes on Skidmore’s campus. Summer 2023 in Saratoga Springs, NY. Learn more

Stanford Jazz Workshop, Jazz Camp — One-and two-week programs on Stanford’s beautiful campus offer instrumentalists and vocalists an opportunity to study and play with motivated peers and a prestigious faculty of professional musicians and educators. Ages of participants are mixed with the idea that young players can learn directly from living legends, touring artists, and recording pros. Students ages 12 to 17 are eligible for the Jazz Camp. With a focus on improving improvisation skills, the Jazz Camp includes jazz theory and musicianship classes and instrument specific and vocal master classes. Summer 2023 both online and in-person in Stanford, CA. Learn more

Litchfield Jazz Camp — Founded in 1997, Litchfield Jazz Camp gives about 300 residential and day students the opportunity to work with a faculty of amazing and inspiring jazz musicians who represent the best jazz players and educators on the scene today. Litchfield is a non-competitive, all-inclusive program. No audition is required – just a desire to attend and make music. Students can attend one to four-week sessions. Summer 2023 in Washington, CT. Learn more

Dance Summer Programs

Alonzo King Lines Ballet Summer Programs — Young dancers are guided through a collaborative journey of artistic risk-taking and independent thinking to explore, solve problems, and realize their full potential. Designed for aspiring artists ages 11 to 25, these intensive programs support the growth of the contemporary ballet dancer with training that is rooted in the philosophy and guidance of master choreographer Alonzo King. The Junior Program is for ages 11-14, the Advanced Program is for ages 14-17, and the Pre-Professional Program is for ages 18-25. Summer 2023 in San Francisco, CA. Learn more

Boston Conservatory at Berklee Summer Dance Intensive (SDI) — This three-week intensive offers talented young dancers the opportunity to deepen their skills and challenge their abilities as they work with esteemed professionals and acclaimed faculty in contemporary ballet, modern dance, and improvisation. Students and professionals between the ages of 15 to 22 who possess a strong technical background in ballet are encouraged to apply. Summer 2023 in Boston, MA. Learn more

Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, Summer Ballet Intensive Program — This 5-week summer program provides excellent technical training for dancers with previous experience ages 7-18. The program focuses on advancing strength and technique and building confidence through a curriculum that merges technique and artistry. Supplemental classes have included character, pointe, variations, modern, partnering, jazz, and hip-hop.​ Summer 2023 in Carlisle, PA. Learn more

Idyllwild Arts Teens & Kids Summer Program, Ballet & Dance Intensives — Idyllwild Arts Academy hosts fantastic summer arts camp experiences for ages 5 to 18. The two-week dance intensive for ages 14-18 includes daily classes in ballet, pointe, jazz, modern, tap, musical theater dance, and choreography taught by industry professionals. The one-week ballet intensive includes technique class, pointe class, classical variations, personal coaching, dance conditioning, and rehearsals. Both of these rigorous programs culminate in final performances. Summer 2023 in Idyllwild, CA. Learn more

Kaatsbaan Ballet Intensive — In 2 or 3-week sessions, young dancers ages 13-18 train with accomplished New York dance artists in group ballet classes. To prepare for a career in the arts, dancers develop exceptional technical skills, artistic refinement and a sophisticated approach to repertoire. Training includes daily ballet technique and specialty classes and opportunities to fine tune classical solos and corps de ballet repertoire. Summer 2023 in Tivoli, NY. Learn more

Oklahoma City University, Dance Advantage Summer Dance Intensive — Hosted by the Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment at Oklahoma City University, Dance Advantage dance camps are for dancers who dream of working on Broadway or in the entertainment industry. Areas covered include Musical Theater Dance, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Rhythm Tap, Ballet, Triple Threat Classes, Acting, and Singing. Classes are taught by Oklahoma City University’s nationally recognized faculty and encourage technical growth and personal development. The workshop will culminate with a showcase performance on the final day of each session. Summer 2023 in Oklahoma City, OK. Learn more

Perry-Mansfield Intensives — Perry-Mansfield offers two summer dance intensives for high school aged artists: a four-week Young Artist Intensive for students ages 12 to 15 and a six-week Pre-Professional Intensive for students ages 15 to 18. Both intensives includes core classes in ballet, modern, and jazz dance and electives in theatre, visual art, equestrian, and creative writing. Evening rehearsals and performances prepare dancers for the rigor and artistic range required in today’s demanding professional world. Summer 2023 in Steamboat Springs, CO. Learn more

Point Park University, International Summer Dance —  International Summer Dance is a 2, 3, or 6-week program that specializes in three styles: ballet, jazz and modern. The curriculum includes daily technique classes in ballet, jazz and modern, supplemented by Pointe and variations, male technique, pas de deux, tap, music for dancers, Pilates, and yoga. Summer 2023 in Pittsburgh, PA. Learn More

San Francisco Ballet Summer Session — San Francisco Ballet’s summer session programs provide a deep dive into ballet technique for students as they prepare for careers as professional ballet dancers. The programs, taught by San Francisco Ballet School faculty and special guests, have a core curriculum that includes technique, pointe for girls, and batterie for boys. Additional classes may include repertoire, pas de deux, character dance, pantomime, and conditioning class. Program 1 is for intermediate students ages 12 to 16 and Program 2 is for advanced and pre-professional students ages 15 to 18. Summer 2023 in San Francisco, CA. Learn more

The Washington School of Ballet, Pre-Professional Summer Intensive — This intensive audition-based program offers comprehensive training in both classical ballet and contemporary dance for serious students ages 12 and older seeking a rigorous curriculum. Classes include classical ballet technique, pointe work, variations, men’s technique, flamenco, jazz, contemporary, Pilates, and student choreography. The Washington School of Ballet provides a safe, nurturing environment enabling each student to explore their technical and artistic capabilities. Summer 2023 in Washington, DC. Learn more


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