Summer Music Institute Provides Chance for Young Musicians to Thrive
Buffalo State University will offer local middle and high school students the opportunity to immerse themselves in one week of instrumental music, vocal instruction, or musical theater during the 11th annual Summer Music Institute held on campus.
During the one-week camps that begin Monday, July 24, young musicians and thespians will study with Buffalo State faculty members and local performing artists. All camps take place from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday in Rockwell Hall.
The institute provides a rich source of instruction for students entering seventh through 12th grades who want to hone their artistic talents over the summer, according to Rick Fleming, professor of music, who founded and directs the institute.
“It’s an excellent way for young musicians to stay fresh over the summer and prepare to perform with an orchestra, band, or chorus when school begins again,” Fleming added.
For the second year, Buffalo State is offering a vocal camp, which joins the longtime classical and jazz instrumental camps.
The Summer Vocal Camp takes place July 24–28, allowing students to participate in traditional choral music ensembles and other vocal and foundational music experiences. In addition, students will study musical literacy and sight reading, and participate in movement courses including yoga and Dalcroze eurhythmics. All ability levels and voice types are welcome.
“The vocal camp was a resounding success last summer, thanks to Dr. Vicky Furby [associate professor of music who directs the choral groups], who got the vocal camp off the ground,” Fleming said. “We hope to welcome more vocal participants this summer.”
The Summer Classical Camp, which also runs July 24–28, is open to students from public and private schools who are proficient on instruments including the flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, percussion, violin, viola, cello, piano, and bass.
The Summer Jazz Camp will run July 31–August 4. Intended for students who are proficient on their instruments, the jazz camp will provide the opportunity to explore songwriting, piano, jazz improvisation, jazz theory, and a jazz-rock combo experience. All courses are taught by internationally recognized Buffalo State music faculty members and highly skilled professionals from Western New York. At this time, the jazz camp is open to instrumental students only.
The Summer Musical Theater Camp, which also runs July 31–August 4, will immerse students in all aspects of theater production. Students will participate in voice, dance, and acting lessons.
“Musical theater camp is a fun, exciting, and supportive environment for students with a focus on developing their love and passion for theater,” Fleming said. “They should end up stronger thespians by the time the week is over.”
All four camps culminate with a public performance on the Friday evening at the end of each week in Ciminelli Recital Hall in Rockwell Hall.
Each camp costs $205, including a processing fee. Scholarships are available based on financial need.
For more information, contact Fleming at (716) 878-6504 or fleminrl@buffalostate.edu.
To register, please visit the Summer Music Institute website.
