Young Scholars Piano Academy Interlochen, Michigan

Following an inspiring week in Cleveland, the Young Scholars traveled to their final stop of the summer: the renowned Interlochen Center for the Arts in northern Michigan, where they took part in a one-of-a-kind piano academy from June 14–20.

Set on a beautiful lakeside campus surrounded by woods, Interlochen offered Scholars a true summer camp experience. Each musician practiced in their own cabin nestled among the trees, while the sound of music filled the air from every corner of the vibrant arts community.

A highlight of the week was the opportunity to record solo pieces at IPR (Interlochen Public Radio). Scholars stepped into a professional studio, gaining hands-on experience with audio production and participating in individual interviews with IPR’s talk host to share their musical journeys.

The week also featured two community concerts in nearby towns, bringing the Scholars’ talents to local audiences. Capping off the experience was the high-energy Block Party Concert in downtown Traverse City—an unforgettable night of street performances that invited the public to join in the celebration of music.

Beyond the piano bench, camp life brought classic summer joy: s’mores by the fire, tie-dye t-shirts (a cherished Interlochen tradition), and time outdoors in one of Michigan’s most beautiful settings.