Learn more about these summer programs and get updates in the ongoing Summer Harp Camp Directory.
Download this issue for a comparison chart of all the programs listed here.
American Harp Academy
Winston Salem, N.C.; June 25–July 1
Instructors: Jacquelyn Bartlett and others
Description: The American Harp Academy is for harpists who want to be immersed in their music and surrounded by a community of artists that nurture creativity and artistic excellence. Harpists participate in intensive study with dedicated performers and teachers, in this one-week program designed to prepare harpists for competitions, auditions, recitals, and other artistic ambitions.
uncsa.edu/summer/music-summer-intensives/harp
American Youth Harp Ensemble Summer Harp Institutes
Richmond, Va.; Virtual—July 5–7, Frederick, Md.—July 10–14, Richmond, Va.— July 17–21, European Tour Dates—TBA
Instructors: Lynnelle Ediger, Trey Nunnally, Claire Jones, Chris Marshall, Alison Read, Gloria Galante, Alexander Kordzaia
Description: In its 27-year history, the AYHE Summer Harp Institute has served over 1,000 young musicians from across the United States and around the globe. The program has multiple weeks and locations available. Many harpists attend multiple weeks. Each day includes ensemble rehearsals, musicianship classes, practice, workshops, and individual attention from faculty and fun extracurricular activities.
Berklee College of Music Summer Programs
Boston, Mass.; Global String Program—June 20–24, Aspire Program—July 8–Aug. 11, Summer Semester—May 22–Aug. 14.
Instructor: Felice Pomeranz
Description: Explore the possibilities of your instrument and learn new styles this summer in one of three great programs of different lengths. Improvisation, technique, styles, grooves, and composition all offered. Scholarships available. Exciting performance opportunities and recording space. Summer in the city—Boston. Online course opportunities are also available.
Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp
Twin Lake, Mich.; two-week sessions in June–Aug.
Instructors: Hui-wen “Heaven” Fan, Molly O’Roark, and Kathryn Sloat
Description: Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp offers harpists of all levels the opportunity for intensive summer study in a traditional camp environment. Daily classes include private lessons, ensemble skills, theory, history, and practice time. The session concludes with a performance for friends and family. Enrollment is limited, and pedal harps are provided. Blue Lake is committed to COVID-careful planning in preparation for the summer season.
Bob Jones University Harp Camp
Greenville, S.C.; Junior High Camp—July 10–14, Senior High Camp—July 16-21
Instructor: Emily Waggoner
Description: Harp camp at Bob Jones University isn’t your typical cabin-insect-lake experience. BJU camps are designed around campers’ particular interests. The mission of BJU summer camps is to help you grow Christlike character as you learn about a specific field. In addition to the daily ensemble rehearsals, solo masterclasses, private lessons, and performances, all camps include chapel, personal Bible study, nightly group devotions in the residence halls, and recreation.
bju.edu/events/youth/summer-camps/
Boston University Tanglewood Institute Young Artists Harp Program
Lenox, Mass.; July 2–Aug. 12
Instructor: Franziska Huhn
Description: Boston University Tanglewood Institute is the only program of its kind associated with one of the world’s great symphony orchestras. Under the guidance of professionals, and in the presence of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, students are immersed in an atmosphere of music-making fueled by high artistic standards, rigorous programming, and a legacy of learning and performance.
Bowdoin International Music Festival
Brunswick, Maine; June 24–July 15 (Session 1); July 15–Aug. 5 (Session 2).
Instructor: Dr. June Han
Description: The Bowdoin International Music Festival provides an intensive and in-depth exploration of chamber and solo music. Students are defined by their dedication, creativity, curiosity, and passion for excellence in music. Harpists study with Dr. June Han, who has been described as “mesmerizing” by The New York Times and “devoted, passionate, and inspirational” by her festival students. Participants may apply to attend the program for three or six weeks.
bowdoinfestival.org/institute/
CAMMAC Music Centre
Harrington, Que. (Canada); July 16–23.
Instructor: Sharlene Wallace
Description: CELTIC HARP INTENSIVE: Explore repertoire for Celtic harp during this intensive week-long program. Develop your technique, interpretation, and performance skills under the guidance of internationally renowned Canadian harpist and composer Sharlene Wallace. Class sizes are limited to small groups, for all levels of harpists.
Cap Ferret Music Festival
France; July 8–15
Instructor: Lisa Tannebaum
Description: A week of daily private lessons, masterclasses, and seminars with harpist Lisa Tannebaum. Students will have access to nightly concerts by the ocean. Musicians from all over the world join this camp.
Colorado Harp Colony
Breckenridge, Colo.; June 5–11
Instructor: Elizabeth Hainen
Description: A handful of advanced harpists are invited to study in the beautiful Victorian mountain town of Breckenridge. We will prepare repertoire for upcoming competitions and orchestra auditions through masterclasses and private lessons. Invitations will be limited to six harpists.
elizabethhainen.com/home/colorado-harp-colony-application
Crane Youth Music
Potsdam, N.Y.; June 25–July 1
Instructor: Jessica Suchy-Pilalis
Description: Crane Youth Music is a one-week solo/ensemble program for all instruments. Each harpist performs in both orchestra and wind ensemble concerts as part of a harp section, gaining experience and confidence for orchestral playing. Harpists have daily masterclasses (covering practicing strategies, mental preparation, physical relaxation…), orchestra sectionals and rehearsals, and harp ensemble. Other performance opportunities include chamber music, honors concert, and solo recital.
potsdam.edu/academics/crane-school-music/camps-community-programs/crane-youth-music
Dorian Summer Music Camp
Decorah, Iowa; June 18–24
Instructor: Amy Nam
Description: Each year, roughly 750 student musicians attend Luther College’’s week-long Dorian Summer Music Camps. Students study with Luther professors, perform in large ensembles, participate in workshops and classes, and live and learn together on campus. Band, orchestra, choir, piano, and harp options are available. Students are able to take art, dance, and theatre classes in addition to their music classes and ensembles. Evenings include fun social activities, outings, recitals, and more.
luther.edu/music/dorian/summer-camps/
Eastern Music Festival
Greensboro, N.C.; June 24–July 29
Instructor: Anna Kate Mackle
Description: Eastern Music Festival is an educational experience for talented, dedicated young artists ages 14–23. Experience Eastern Music Festival this summer and study in our orchestral studies program.
Elyrica Summer Harp Program
Ridgefield, Conn.; July 31–Aug. 4 (tentative)
Instructors: Wendy Kerner, Carrianne Dillon, Alexandra Kovatch, and others
Description: Elyrica is a fun, intensive, non-competitive experience for harpists age 8 through adult, with all levels, and all harp types. Elyrica is focused on ensembles for kids and adults, with music chosen for each participant and sent out ahead. In its 25th year, students can look forward to playing in coached sessions and in a final concert, enjoying interactive workshops, guest performers, fun events, and time for visiting and making friends.
Harp in the Mountains Summer Festival
Madisonburg, Penn.; July 9–15
Instructors: Anne Sullivan and Candace Lark Masucci
Description: A recreational camp atmosphere and intense harp study combine in this summer harp experience. With a focus on learning together, campers practice and perform, study technique and musicianship, and enjoy making new harp friends.
Harp Journeys
Online; Dates TBA
Instructors: Kimberly Snaufer DeRosa and others
Description: Students can sign up for one, two, or three half days (9:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m. CST) of workshops and lessons.
HarpMasters Academy
Switzerland; July 10–20
Instructors: Milda Agazarian, Irina Zingg, Mara Galassi, Luisa Prandina, and Anneleen Lenaerts
Description: Since its establishment in 2006, International Summer Harp Academy “HarpMasters,” has brought together harp celebrities, teachers, and students from all over the world to join a unique group of dedicated professionals to learn, inspire, and establish friendships. Year after year we build a community of exchange between teachers and young artists from all over the world all in a supportive and friendly atmosphere.
Houston Summer Harp Festival
Houston, Texas; July 10–15
Instructors: Kimberly Snaufer DeRosa, Therese Honey, Susanna Wang, and Hope Cowan
Description: Our theme for 2023 is “Passport to France: Discovering France’s Influence on the Harp.” Open to students ages 11–19 for a non-competitive week of comprehensive studies on the many aspects of the harp and its music, history, and ensemble playing. Ensemble rehearsals culminate in a recital at the end of the week. Other exciting classes include Famous Harpists, Wedding Workshop, masterclasses, and private lessons with our faculty.
Interlochen Arts Camp—High School
Interlochen, Mich.; June 24 – Aug. 6.
Instructors: Joan Raeburn Holland and Sylvia Norris
Description: Students’ days will consist of solo, small group, and large ensemble rehearsals. In each, students learn advanced techniques, discuss practice methods, and tackle advanced, exciting repertoire. In addition to receiving individual attention from instructors, students have the chance to practice with others and sharpen their performance skills.
interlochen.org/music/camp-programs/high-school/harp
Interlochen Arts Camp—Intermediate
Interlochen, Mich.; Session 1: June 24–July 15, Session 2: July 16–Aug. 6
Instructors: Joan Raeburn Holland and Sylvia Norris.
Description: During this program, students will develop their skills alongside other young musicians. Our harp students spend their days in a collaborative, focused, and inspiring setting. Students have a variety of opportunities to practice, collaborate, and perform. Our curriculum includes harp ensemble and chamber music classes, studio and masterclasses, private lessons, and more. Students are welcome to attend both summer sessions.
interlochen.org/music/camp-programs/grades-6-9/harp
International Harp Academy Argentina
Argentina; May 17–20
Instructors: Marcela Mendez, Ramiro Enriquez, and Marcella Carboni.
Description: The International Harp Academy of Argentina offers a customized, in-person harp program. In 2023 we will also have a focus on improvisation and harp jazz with special guest Marcella Carboni (Italy). Focus on your goals in a supportive environment and to meet and hear harpists from around the world. All skill levels are welcome.
Island Mountain Arts International Harp & Cello School
Wells, B.C. (Canada); Aug. 14–18
Instructors: Sharlene Wallace and others
Description: Established in 1986, our school attracts students from all over the world. Our instructors teach beginner, intermediate, and advanced level courses. In the mornings, delve into your level specific session, and in the afternoons, choose from musical topics including ensemble.
Lizotte Academia
Laurel, Que. (Canada); Flexible dates July 23–30
Instructor: Caroline Lizotte
Description: Lizotte Academia is a specialized academy on Caroline Lizotte’s works. Come stay a few days in the composer’s village and discover the heart of each piece you will work with her, the techniques, the use of the accessories inherent in her works. Learn from her approach and philosophy and her technical and creative expertise, while enjoying activities in the beauty of nature.
MasterWorks Festival
Campbellsville, Ky.; June 18–July 16
Instructor: Heaven Fan
Description: MasterWorks Festival is an intensive, four-week festival for advanced and passionate students of the classical performing arts. Together with harp faculty Dr. Heaven Fan (University of Notre Dame faculty) students study and perform in a supportive, Christian environment. Performance opportunities include a concerto competition, honors recitals, chamber music, run-out concerts, Sunday worship, etc.
Midwest Harp Festival
Wheaton, Ill.; Dates TBA
Instructors: Janelle Lake, Charles W. Lynch III, Elizabeth Richter, Faye Seeman, and Joanne King
Description: Meet the Harp is open to 5–10-year-olds with no prior harp experience. Morning Only is open to pedal/lever harpists ages 8 and older. There are rehearsals every morning and a final concert on Saturday. Full-Time is open to pedal/lever harpists ages 8 and older. It includes morning rehearsals, afternoon workshops, evening concerts, and a final concert on Saturday. Independent Study is open to self-motivated harpists who receive five lessons with Elizabeth Richter. The Solo Competition is open all ages welcome.
Mostly Modern Festival
Saratoga Springs, N.Y.; June 4–24
Instructor: Joseph Rebman
Description: The Mostly Modern Festival is a three-week orchestral and chamber music festival focused on music of the 20th and 21st centuries..Housed at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, New York, students perform in orchestra, chamber, opera, and composition readings. Students receive three private lessons with harp faculty Joseph Rebman. The festival also features a concerto competition, professional development lectures, and masterclasses with guest artists.
MPulse Harp Institute
Ann Arbor, Mich.; July 23-29
Instructor: Joan Raeburn Holland
Description: The MPulse Harp Institute is a one-week program focusing on individual and group instruction for high school harpists. Specific topics of focus will include solo repertoire, standard harp cadenzas, performance concentration and confidence, use of the inner ear and imagination for musical delivery, playing with relaxed, organized technique and peer-to-peer observation. The week finishes with a recital of harp solos and ensemble.
smtd.umich.edu/programs-degrees/youth-adult-programs/youth-programs/mpulse/harp-institute/
Nebraska Harp Workshop
Brownsville, Neb.; June 18–25
Instructor: Julie Smith Phillips
Description: The Nebraska Harp Workshop, led by Julie Smith Phillips, Principal Harpist of the San Diego Symphony, is a one-week intensive including individual harp lessons, classes, and performing and recital opportunities. All activities take place in the historic village of Brownville, Nebraska, where participants will experience artist-led activities and the charm of this state-designated creative district. The workshop is geared for college-aged students, though others are encouraged to apply.
New Millennium International Chamber Music Festival and Academy
Budapest, Hungary; Aug. 31–Sept. 5
Instructor: Klára Bábel
Description: A scholarship fund has been established for harp students, where more generous scholarships are available.
Ohio Scottish Arts School
Berea, Ohio; June 24–30
Instructors: Corrina Hewat, Jen Narkevicius, and other
Description: OSAS is a week-long harp camp for ages 12 and older on the Baldwin-Wallace University campus. The purpose is to learn Scottish music on lever and wire harps, and to make new friends. Classes include morning and afternoon harp classes on four levels, music and culture lectures, mixed instrument classes, and nightly sessions for adults, with activities for the teens. The week begins Saturday after the (optional) SHSA sanctioned Ohio Scottish Games harp competition and runs through Friday noon.
Redwood Music Teen Camp
Aptos, Calif.; June 12 –17
Instructor: Shelley Phillips
Description: Learn and perform the folk music of Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, and more, all in the redwoods along the Monterey Bay. Students practice and perform in instrument-specific groups, in small bands, and with the entire ensemble. For players of fiddle, flute, pennywhistle, recorder, clarinets, lever harp, autoharp, guitar, mandolin, dulcimer, accordion, keyboards, percussion, Irish tenor banjo, and cello. Other activities include movies, crafts, a talent show, and lots of jamming.
communitymusicschool.org/redwood-music-teen-camp4
Rocky Mountain Springs Harp Program
Steamboat Springs, Colo.; June 18–July 15
Instructors: Rachel Browne and Kathryn Harms
Description: The Rocky Mountain Springs Harp Program strives to supplement the education of young harpists through intensive summer programs which treat each harpist as a whole person, with teachers who act as mentors and friends.Training in harp technique, musicianship, and performance is enhanced by program elements designed to improve mental attitudes and abilities, physical health, and conditioning, aesthetic appreciation, and connections between music and other disciplines.
Round Top Festival Institute
Round Top, Texas; June 4–July 16
Instructor: Paula Page
Description: The Round Top Festival Institute offers six weeks (no absence is permitted) of intensive training for young, talented musicians (born before December 31, 2004) seeking a transition from conservatories and universities to a future professional career. Symphony orchestra, chamber orchestra, chamber music, and solo repertoire are included in this concentrated six-week program.
festivalhill.org/summerinstitute
SFCM Harp Camp
San Francisco, Calif.; July 17–21
Instructor: Jennifer R. Ellis
Description: Enrich your harp learning over the summer with SFCM’s Harp Camp for students ages 12–19. During this five-day program, each harpist gets to perform solo, in a masterclass, and with the harp ensemble. Harpists receive daily instruction in topics including harp ensemble, eurhythmics, harp history, and special workshops like arranging your favorite harp piece, improvisation, managing performance nerves, and more.
sfcm.edu/summer-programs/harp-camp
Spanish Peaks Harp Retreat
Walsenburg, Colo.; Sept. 21–24
Instructors: TBA
Description: Includes ten hours of harp instruction for beginner, intermediate, and high intermediate-professional levels, as harp circle evening concerts.
SummerKeys
Lubec, Maine; Aug. 7–11 (week 1); Aug. 14–18 (week 2)
Instructors: Rachel Clemente and Haley Hewitt
Description: SummerKeys is an adult music camp located at the easternmost tip of Maine. People of all abilities, from complete beginner to advanced, are welcome. There are no auditions and no requirements. The program includes daily individual and group lessons, as well as ensemble work.
TCU Summer Harp Workshop
Fort Worth, Texas; July 6–8.
Instructor: Kela Walton
Description: The program includes three days of solo, masterclasses, and ensemble rehearsals as well as interactive and informative sessions about the harp. The Summer Harp Workshop final presentation is open to friends and family at the conclusion of the workshop. The workshop accepts young harpists entering 8th grade and above, intermediate to advanced level. Overnight accommodations and recreation activities available on TCU’s campus.
finearts.tcu.edu/music/events-and-programs/summer-camps/tcu-harp-workshop/
Texas Music Festival
Houston, Texas; June 6–24
Instructor: Paula Page
Description: Texas Music Festival is an intensive three-week summer orchestral program for college-age and young professional musicians as they prepare for careers in music. Private lessons, orchestra repertoire class, and three different orchestral programs prepared with world class conductors are offered.
Vienna Harp Days
Vienna, Austria; July 15–20.
Instructors: Nicoletta Sanzin and Elisabeth Plank
Description: Vienna Harp Days is a masterclass in the capital of music. The program offers daily individual lessons, as well as group sessions on specific subjects. Concerts and an on-site exhibition complete the experience. In 2023, Vienna Harp Days founder Elisabeth Plank will be joined by Nicoletta Sanzin, solo harpist of Slovenska Filharmonija, as well as a soloist and pedagogue (Conservatorio Trieste), as guest professor.
WVU Summer Harp Academy
Morgantown, W.V.; July 10–14.
Instructor: Christine Mazza
Description: The daily schedule begins with individual practice and lesson time, next is harp ensemble rehearsal and masterclass followed by brown bag lunch. The afternoon schedule is much the same, with addition of harp theory. A guest artist (TBA) will teach one afternoon. A Friday evening recital will be the final event.
Young Artist’s Harp Seminar
Chestertown, Md.; YAHS July 8–22, PREP July 9–16.
Instructors: Susan Bennett Brady, Kristi Shade, Kathryn Andrews, Angela Schwarzkopf, Emily Levin, and Katherine Siochi
Description: The YAHS program is for serious pedal harpists who want to improve performance skills and practice habits and intensify preparation for solo performances, orchestral auditions, and competitions. The YAHS Prep program is open to pedal or lever harpists who want similar training in a less intensive atmosphere.Now located at Washington College in Chestertown, Md.
