10 Music Business Summer Programs for High School Students
If you're a high school student passionate about music and eager to engage with the industry, then this guide is your go-to resource! We've curated a list of some of the best summer music business summer programs available for high school students across the country.
These programs cover a wide range of industry aspects, including music production, business management, performance, technology, production, and more.
You'll have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals and experienced instructors, gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment, and collaborate with peers who share your passion for music.
Whether you're looking to explore the creative side of music production or delve into the business and entrepreneurial aspects of the industry, these programs can serve as solid foundations.
With that, here are 10 music business summer programs for high school students.
The Music Business Summer Program at Berklee is an intensive, 5-day immersive experience catered to high school students passionate about music and curious about the business aspects that drive the industry. The program blends academic learning with hands-on activities, giving students a taste of what it's like to work in the music business.
In this program, you will apply your newly acquired knowledge and skills by collaborating with emerging artists. You'll help them develop their brand and image, create a social media content strategy, and plan the rollout for their upcoming release. In the program's final project, students present their ideas directly to the artists and a panel of music industry executives, receiving valuable feedback.
The curriculum is meticulously crafted to cover a broad spectrum of topics within the music business realm. Students will engage in courses and workshops that explore:
Music Marketing and Promotion: Understanding how to market and promote music in a digital age, including social media strategies, branding, and audience engagement.
Music Publishing: Learning about the intricacies of music publishing, including rights management, royalties, and the role of publishing companies.
Artist Management: Gaining insights into the responsibilities of an artist manager, from career development to tour planning and contract negotiation.
Record Label Operations: Exploring the functions of a record label including production, distribution, and financial management.
Music Entrepreneurship: Encouraging students to develop their entrepreneurial skills by creating business plans, pitching ideas, and understanding the startup ecosystem within the music industry.
Location: Boston, MA
Cost: $9,630, including housing; $50 registration fee.
Program dates: July 5 - August 9, 2024
Application deadline: Closed for 2024. Applications typically close in June.
Eligibility: Ages 15 and above.
The NYU Tisch School of the Arts offers an exceptional summer program for high school students through the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music. This prestigious program is designed for young individuals passionate about music and eager to explore music production, business, and performance.
In this 4-week program, students will delve into the intricacies of how music is recorded, produced, and distributed. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including artist management, marketing, touring, and the development and growth of music companies. Additionally, the program explores how emerging technologies are continuously transforming the music industry, shaping how music is consumed and marketed.
With an acceptance rate of just 10-20%, this competitive program is a gateway for young, talented individuals to gain a deeper understanding of the music industry and to build a solid foundation for their future careers.
Location: New York University, NY
Cost: $13,920
Program dates: July 7 - August 3, 2024
Application deadline: Closed for 2024; Applications typically close in January.
Eligibility: Applicants must be current high school juniors or sophomores with a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 unweighted scale and good academic standing.
The Aspire: Five-Week Music Performance Intensive at Berklee College of Music in Boston is a rigorous and prestigous program designed for young musicians aiming to elevate their performance skills and gain a comprehensive understanding of music performance and the business of music. This rigorous five-week program attracts students from over 70 countries and offers a unique blend of intensive coursework, hands-on projects, and numerous performance opportunities, all under the guidance of Berklee's esteemed faculty and guest artists.
As a student in this program, you will receive specialized instruction in your chosen instrument or vocal performance. This includes technique enhancement, stylistic interpretation, and performance practices across various genres. Through elective courses, you will also explore various exciting topics such as the art of songwriting and composition, conceptualization and development of music companies and record labels, music therapy, and much more.
Location: Berklee College of Music, Boston, MA
Cost:
Tuition: $5,430
Housing: $4,200
Application fee: $50
Full and partial merit-based scholarships are available.
Program dates: July 5 - August 9, 2024
Application deadline: Closed for 2024; Applications typically close in June.
Eligibility: High school students aged 15 and older with six months of singing or playing experience. International students require an F-1 student visa and must be proficient in English.
4. GRAMMY Camp
Conducted by the GRAMMY Museum, GRAMMY Camp is a 7-day non-residential program held annually in Los Angeles. This program is designed for high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in the music industry, offering a comprehensive curriculum that spans multiple facets of music and its business. From vocal and instrument performance to songwriting, music journalism and audio engineering, GRAMMY Camp provides a well-rounded education in the world of music..
Each day at GRAMMY Camp starts with technical and theoretical instruction in one of the seven available career tracks. Afternoons are dedicated to continued instruction and collaborative projects with fellow Campers, allowing students to explore topics both within and beyond their chosen track. The Music Business track, in particular, is a blend of the Marketing Management and Concert Production tracks, designed especially for students interested in the non-performance aspects of the music industry. This track covers essential topics such as touring, entertainment law, marketing, and entrepreneurship, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the business side of music.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: $1,800; $25 registration fee. Need-based financial aid is available.
Program dates: July 14 - July 20, 2024
Application deadline: Closed for 2024; Applications typically close in March.
Eligibility: Applicants must be U.S. residents currently enrolled in grades 9–12.
The University of Colorado’s LYNX National Arts & Media Camp offers an exceptional summer experience for high school students passionate about working in the music industry. Launched in 2014, the Music Industry Program has quickly become one of the premier contemporary music camps in the U.S. The program provides an in-depth look into various facets of the modern music industry, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to advance their music careers. The program also serves as an introduction to CU Denver’s Music & Entertainment Industry Studies (MEIS) Department’s college programs.
This program is designed to immerse students in modern music, offering a diverse curriculum that covers multiple aspects of the music industry, including production, contemporary performance, songwriting, recording arts, and more. As a participant, you will:
Engage in Music Production: Apply their skills in recording and production by working on individual and group projects. They create and produce their own music, gaining practical experience in a professional studio setting.
Participate in Ensemble Work: Collaborate with peers in ensemble groups, performing and rehearsing together. This fosters teamwork and provides real-world performance experience.
Work on Songwriting Projects: Develop and present original songs, receiving feedback from instructors and peers to refine their craft.
Students can choose their electives from a wide range of options such as beginner/advanced instrument training, voice performance, and music business as well as ensembles such as hip-hop, Latin jazz, and more. For more information on the available options, click here.
Location: Denver, CO.
Cost:
Commuter: $1,200 (includes weekday camp programming from 9:00-4:30 and lunch)
Commuter Plus: $1,800 (includes weekday camp programming from 9:00-8:00 and includes lunch and dinner. Also includes optional weekend programming and field trips.)
Residential: $2,500 (includes all camp programming, housing in our residence halls, and all meals at the camp. Weekend and evening programming is included)
Need-based scholarships are available.
Program dates: June 16 - 28, 2024
Application deadline: Closed for 2024; Applications typically open in November and close in May.
Eligibility: High school students between the ages of 14 to 18 with a strong affinity towards music.
The Technology and Applied Composition Immersive program by the San Francisco Conservatory of Music (SCFM) offers high school students a unique opportunity to explore the world of music technology, media composition, and production. This week-long residential program immerses participants in the latest practices and tools in music technology under the guidance of world-class faculty and industry professionals.
The curriculum is carefully structured to ensure that students not only learn the technical skills necessary for music production but also gain practical experience in creating scores for various media, such as film, television, and video games. By the end of the program, participants will have produced a hybrid score during a culminating recording session, which they can add to their portfolio. Key topics covered include:
Music Technology: Students explore the latest software tools and technologies used in music production and composition. This includes learning how to navigate digital audio workstations (DAWs) and utilizing virtual instruments and plugins.
Media Composition: The program delves into the art of scoring for different media, such as film, television, and video games. Students learn about the creative and technical aspects of composing music that enhance visual storytelling.
Production Techniques: Participants receive instruction in state-of-the-art production techniques, including mixing, mastering, and sound design. This helps students understand how to produce professional-quality music
Studio Recording and Sound Design: Students gain hands-on experience with studio recording techniques and sound design, learning how to create and manipulate sounds for various applications.
Location: San Francisco Conservatory of Music, San Francisco, CA
Cost: $795 program fee, housing is not included. A $50 registration fee is applicable.
Program dates: June 17 - June 21, 2024
Application deadline: Closed for 2024; Applications typically open in September and close in November, followed by auditions.
Eligibility: High school students between the ages of 15 to 18 with prior experience in sound design or music composition and electronic media.
The Instrumental Artist’s Intensive program at Idyllwild Arts Academy provides an immersive two-week summer camp experience designed for young musicians eager to refine their skills and deepen their understanding of ensemble performance. Led by Idyllwild Arts Academy instructors and professional chamber and orchestral musicians from around the world, the program offers two specialized tracks: the IA Summer Winds and the IA Summer Strings. Both tracks feature weekly performances, allowing students to showcase their progress and talents in a supportive, creative environment. Placement in the program is determined by auditions and the specific instrumental needs of the ensembles, ensuring each student is positioned for optimal growth and contribution.
In the first week, students will engage in daily rehearsals with the Chamber Winds/Symphonic Band or String Chamber Orchestra, honing their collaborative skills in smaller chamber groups while receiving private instruction to enhance their solo performance abilities. The second week shifts to full Symphony Orchestra rehearsals, where you will learn to blend your sound in a larger ensemble and grasp symphonic performance dynamics. Over two weeks, students attend masterclasses by program coaches and guest chamber groups, gaining insights into advanced techniques used by professional musicians.
Location: Idyllwild Arts Academy, CA.
Cost:
Tuition, room, and board: $3,730
Day Student Tuition: $2,180
Lab fee: $75
Health and Safety fee: $200
Program dates: July 14 - July 27, 2024
Application deadline: Closed for 2024; Applications typically close in February.
Eligibility: Musically inclined students between the ages of 13 and 18.
The Core Music Summer Camp by the School of Creative and Performing Arts (SOCAPA) offers a comprehensive introduction to the world of songwriting and music production. It is designed to guide students through the entire songwriting process. As a participant in this program, you will learn to write, arrange, and perform your own original songs. The camp also provides you with the opportunity to record at least one of these songs in a professional studio, providing a tangible product of your efforts.
Half of each day is dedicated to understanding the foundational elements of music, where you will study music history and theory, deconstruct famous songs to learn about their composition, and explore the business aspects of the music industry. The other half focuses on the creative process, wherein students write and rehearse their original songs, receiving individualized guidance and feedback from experienced instructors. This personalized instruction helps students refine their compositions and improve their performance skills. As a practical bonus, students are also taken on field trips to experience local music industry landmarks and the local live music scene.
In the three-week program, students get deeper opportunities such as an additional recording session, collaborative projects with other programs such as Filmmaking, and more.
Location: New York City, California, and Vermont.
Cost:
New York: $2,395
California: $2,195
Vermont: $2,295
Program dates: Varies depending on the chosen location.
Application deadline: Rolling deadlines. Early applications are recommended.
Eligibility: Applicants must be U.S. residents currently enrolled in grades 9–12.
The Pre-College Music & Sound Design for Games program at DigiPen is an immersive 4-week course designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the skills and knowledge required to become an audio professional in the gaming industry. This program mirrors the experience of DigiPen’s Bachelor of Music and Sound Design degree, offering a deep dive into the essential components that create an immersive audio experience in video games.
Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the critical components that make up a game's audio landscape. From composing evocative musical scores to creating sound effects that enhance gameplay, participants learn to blend musical artistry with technical proficiency. The curriculum covers music theory, historical contexts, and sound design techniques, providing a solid foundation for crafting immersive audio experiences.
Students in this program take three core academic classes and participate in a collaborative game project lab - Music History and Literature (MHL), Fundamentals of Music and Sound Design (FMSD), and Game Project Lab (GAM). In this collaborative lab, students from various Pre-College tracks collaborate to develop a finished game. This hands-on experience allows music and sound design students to apply their skills in a real-world context, creating audio assets that enhance the overall gaming experience.
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,995
Program dates: July 8 - August 2, 2024
Application deadline: Rolling deadlines.
Eligibility: Students who are at least 16 years of age, entering their junior or senior year of high school, or have graduated high school within the last 18 months.
NYU Steinhardt offers a comprehensive 6-week Pre-College Program in Music Technology designed specifically for high school students. It provides an immersive experience in music production, recording engineering, and electronic music. For students wishing to get a head start in understanding the critical role that technology plays in the music industry, this program was designed to give you that boost.
The program covers three primary areas:
Music Production: Students learn the art and science of music production, exploring the techniques used to create and shape sound recordings. This includes understanding the workflow of a music producer, from conceptualizing a song to its final mix.
Recording Engineering: This segment focuses on the technical aspects of recording music. Students gain hands-on experience with recording equipment, learn about microphone placement, sound capturing, and the principles of acoustics.
Electronic Music: Participants dive into the world of electronic music, learning about synthesis, sampling, and the use of digital audio workstations (DAWs). This course covers both the creative and technical aspects of electronic music production.
One of the key benefits of the program is the opportunity to learn from industry leaders and working professionals, which will further help students understand current trends and technologies. Moreover, the projects completed during the program provide students with a portfolio of work that can be used for college applications or job opportunities in the music industry.
Location: New York City, NY.
Cost: $2,550; registration fee of $50 and an enrollment deposit of $150.
Program dates: July 3 - August 15, 2024
Application deadline: Closed for 2024; Applications typically close in March.
Eligibility: Applicants must be U.S. residents currently enrolled in grades 9–12.
One other option - Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research in STEM or other fields, you could also consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
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