Olivet Nazarene University’s School of Music invites young musicians ages 5-18 to experience the joy of music-making at its annual Summer Music Camp, July 13-18, 2025. The week-long program offers students an immersive musical experience on ONU’s beautiful campus, combining expert instruction with fun activities and performance opportunities.
Three Camp Options Tailored to Every Age and Skill Level
The School of Music has designed three distinct camp experiences to meet the needs of young musicians at every stage of their journey:
Elementary Music Half-Day Camp (Ages 5-9): Perfect for beginners not currently taking private lessons, this introductory program runs from 8:30 a.m. to noon daily. Young musicians will explore different facets of music through engaging, age-appropriate classes. Early bird registration is $200 through June 2.
Elementary Music Full-Day Camp (Ages 7-9): Designed for young students already taking private instrumental or voice lessons, this comprehensive program runs from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Campers enjoy private lessons, guided practice time, ensemble experiences, and music theory games. Early bird registration is $300 through June 2.
Middle & Secondary Full-Day Camp (Ages 10-18): This immersive experience runs from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, offering advanced students comprehensive instruction on their primary instrument along with specialized track options. Early bird registration is $400 through June 2.
Comprehensive Musical Training
All full-day campers receive core curriculum instruction including:
- Private or semi-private lessons on their primary instrument
- Music theory and aural skills training
- Music history relevant to their interests
- Ensemble participation
Instruments offered include piano, organ, voice, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, violin, viola, cello, string bass, guitar, electric bass, and percussion.
Students ages 10-18 can also choose from specialized tracks including musical theatre, music in worship, jazz and popular music, chamber music, percussion ensemble, composition, recording arts, marching band, and choral music.
Camp Check-In and Daily Schedule
For Ages 10-18: Registration begins Sunday, July 13 at 7 p.m. at the Larsen Fine Arts Center. Families should plan to eat dinner before arriving on campus. The evening includes opening ceremonies, orientation, ice breaker games, and snacks. Parents are welcome but not required to stay. Commuters should arrange pickup at 9 p.m., while resident campers will settle into their apartments.
For Elementary Campers (Ages 5-9): Registration begins Monday, July 14 at 7:45 a.m. Parents are invited to attend a brief orientation at 8 a.m. before classes begin at 8:30 a.m.
Daily activities begin at 8:30 a.m. in Kresge Auditorium. Commuters should arrive between 8:00 and 8:20 a.m. each day. Half-day campers (ages 5-9) are dismissed at noon, while full-day elementary campers (ages 7-9) conclude at 5 p.m.
Beyond the Music: Recreation and Team Building
Camp isn’t all about practice and performance. Students of all ages are grouped into teams competing for the coveted OLLIE award through participation in both academic activities and recreational group activities. These team-building experiences help campers forge lasting friendships with peers who share their passion for music.
Housing and Meal Options
Resident campers ages 10-18 can add room and board for $275, which includes three meals daily Monday through Friday and apartment housing Sunday through Thursday. Commuter students attending the full-day camp can purchase a meal package for $150, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner Monday through Friday.
Registration Information
Registration rates increase after June 2:
- June 2-15: $225 (half-day), $325 (elementary full-day), $425 (secondary full-day)
- After June 15: $250, $350, $450 (if spaces remain available)
Registration closes June 29, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.
Students registering for camps with private lessons should bring their own instruments (except pianists). Commuter pianists will need access to a piano or keyboard at home for practice.
Grand Finale Performances
The camp concludes Friday evening, July 18, with a variety of performances showcasing the week’s accomplishments. These concerts provide campers the opportunity to share their musical growth with family and friends.
“Our Summer Music Camp offers young musicians the chance to grow not just as performers, but as people,” says Dr. Neal Woodruff, Associate Dean of the ONU School of Music. “Through expert instruction, collaborative music-making, and faith-based exploration, campers discover how music can enrich every aspect of their lives.”
Ready to register? Visit olivet.edu/events/som-camp/ for complete information and to secure your spot at this transformative musical experience.
About Olivet Nazarene University’s School of Music: The School of Music at Olivet Nazarene University provides comprehensive music education grounded in the liberal arts tradition and Christian faith. Faculty members are dedicated to nurturing both artistic excellence and personal growth in every student.
