SOUNDS Academy Summer Session Re-Cap

The SOUNDS Academy summer session is coming to a close! Over the past few months, SOUNDS Academy students were able to not only attend SOUNDS Academy’s Summer Camp but also other musical camps in the Phoenix valley and across the country.

The 2024 SOUNDS Academy summer camp was 6 days of fun with 19 SOUNDS Academy students hosted at the Yavapai College campus in Prescott. Students took music theory classes, worked in small ensembles, and engaged in Character Value activities each day, including a hike in Flagstaff for Perseverance.

Cello student Caleia said, “Going to the SOUNDS Academy summer camp is a truly beneficial experience I look forward to each year. When I go to camp, I’m able to build stronger relationships with the other students in SOUNDS Academy, and I’m given the space and time to fully focus on my musical development.”

Several of our students were also able to attend the Tetra Summer Chamber Institute, the Brevard Summer Music Festival, and the Youth Orchestra Los Angeles National Festival!

When asked about his experience at the Brevard Summer Music Festival, Leo said, “This summer, I am attending the Brevard Summer Music Festival as a student in the piano institute. I am studying in Dr. Jihye Chang’s studio, and while here, I get to have weekly studio and private lessons. Along with that, I’m able to perform in and watch biweekly masterclasses. Students at Brevard also have the pleasure of watching free concerts and recitals on the weekends, going hiking and exploring nature, and visiting the city of Brevard. I have had a wonderful time advancing my musical skills while also enjoying the new environment that’s similar to how my life will be in college.”

SOUNDS Academy hosts the only overnight music camp in Arizona. It takes place at Yavapai Community College in Prescott, AZ, where 30 SOUNDS Academy students participate in an intensive program to develop their musicality and character values. Each student receives high-quality music education and instruction in piano or string instruments. They participate in engaging activities and games that help develop their understanding of note reading, improvisation, practice techniques, ensemble performance, music theory, and composition. Over the past 2 years, SOUNDS Academy Alumni serve as teachers and counselors, helping them to further develop and advance their leadership skills by co-teaching classes and leading younger students in rehearsals and character development games and discussions. Although this camp is free to SOUNDS Academy students, there is a $2,000 cost to support each child in the camp. In the future we look to include guitar, woodwinds, and brass instruments as choices for students.