FSU music camps provide harmonious experience for K-12 students

FSU College of Music students captivate the elementary campers as they demonstrate how their instruments work, and answer questions about being a musician. (Photo by Kerry Smith)
FSU College of Music students captivate the elementary campers as they demonstrate how their instruments work, and answer questions about being a musician. (Photo by Kerry Smith)

At Florida State University, one of the nation’s oldest and largest summer music programs welcomed its largest group of campers this year, with more than 1,550 in attendance.

The FSU College of Music’s Summer Music Camps are week-long camps for elementary, middle and high school students offered over four weeks throughout the summer.

“This summer’s record-breaking enrollment is a testament to the continued dedication and exceptional instruction by the faculty and staff at the College of Music,” said Greg Jones, associate dean of the college. “Though the camps themselves have experienced many changes over the years, a commitment to excellence in music education remains at the core.”

Nicole Van Esselstyn performs a solo during the Choral Ensemble Camp Final Performance. (Photo by Audra Weathers)
Nicole Van Esselstyn performs a solo during the Choral Ensemble Camp Final Performance. (Photo by Audra Weathers)

Through July 8, rotating groups of students will work with FSU faculty, guest artists and alumni to present a final performance in Ruby Diamond Concert Hall. This year, students are visiting from 18 states across the U.S. and Cartagena, Colombia, in partnership with the Fundacíon Tocando Puertas.

Ella Scoble Opperman originally founded the camps in the Florida State College for Women Band School. Since its inception in 1942, the camps have provided music instruction to tens of thousands of young musicians.

“The trajectory for the camp remains true to its original mission of creating a positive musical foundation for students of all ability levels to build upon as they continue to grow and develop as musicians,” Jones said. “It provides an essential bridge in music education during the summer months.”

For more information about the FSU Summer Music Camps, visit music.fsu.edu/events.