Insights on Tanglewood Music Camp

I'm passionate about music and considering applying to Tanglewood Music Camp for this summer. Has anyone attended or know someone who has? What was your/their experience like, and what should I expect?

Tanglewood Music Camp, officially known as the Boston University Tanglewood Institute (BUTI), is a highly renowned program for young musicians. Many attendees often praise the program's intensive focus on music and the opportunity to work closely with accomplished musicians and teachers from all around the world. In terms of the program structure, most of your time at BUTI will be spent in rehearsals and master classes. Expect to spend many hours each day focused on music, whether that's in the form of individual practice, ensemble rehearsals, or attending concerts. The program's aim is to substantially improve your musicianship in a short span of time, so the days can be quite long and intense. As for the experience, it’s generally considered inspiring and transformative. You'll find yourself among like-minded peers who share your passion for music. Whether it's through bonding in ensemble rehearsals or simply discussing music during downtime, the sense of community is said to be strong.

However, be prepared for a competitive atmosphere, as you could be sharing spaces with some of the best young musicians in the country. This can be a great opportunity to learn and grow, though it can also be a bit intimidating initially. The highlight for many are the opportunities to watch performances at the Tanglewood Music Center, which hosts some of the world's best musicians over the summer. These experiences can provide you with a real-life view of the professional world of music, which can be a tremendous learning experience. To make the most of the program, I'd encourage open mindedness, a willingness to take on challenges, and a strong work ethic. Ultimately, attending Tanglewood is not just about improving your musical skills, but also about embracing the discipline necessary to make music at a high level.