Attending Interlochen Arts Camp was one of the most exciting and life-changing experiences I’ve had as a young musician. Spending two weeks immersed in music, surrounded by incredibly talented peers, and learning from world-class instructors was nothing short of inspiring. Here’s a look back at my time there and the unforgettable memories I made.

Arrival at Interlochen: A Dream Come True

From the moment I arrived at Interlochen, I knew I was in a special place. Nestled in the woods of Michigan, the camp’s atmosphere felt like a dream come true for any young artist. Everywhere I looked, creative people were practicing their crafts—musicians rehearsing their instruments, dancers perfecting their routines, and visual artists painting breathtaking scenes of nature. The energy and passion that filled the air were infectious, and I was eager to dive right in.

A Full Scholarship and a Full Heart

Being accepted to Interlochen on a full scholarship felt like an honor, and I was determined to make the most of every opportunity. The camp is known for being one of the most prestigious arts programs in the world, and it was incredible to be part of such a vibrant and supportive community. I had the chance to meet other musicians who shared my passion for creating and performing, and we quickly bonded over our love of music.

A Musical Adventure

My days were filled with masterclasses, ensemble rehearsals, and one-on-one lessons. It was intense but exhilarating! We worked on honing our technical skills, exploring new styles of music, and pushing the boundaries of what we could achieve as young artists. One of the highlights was participating in orchestra rehearsals, where we had to bring our A-game and play with focus and precision.

Outside of structured rehearsals, I loved the freedom to experiment and jam with other campers. Music was everywhere—around the campfire, at impromptu gatherings in the practice rooms, or simply while walking through the woods. Being surrounded by people with the same dedication to their art was inspiring.

Finding Inspiration in Nature

One of Interlochen’s unique aspects is its stunning natural surroundings. Practicing music in the middle of a serene forest, with birds singing and the wind rustling through the trees, felt magical. It was easy to be inspired and to feel a deep connection to the music I was playing. We even had opportunities to perform outdoors, which added an extra layer of beauty to our performances.

Friendships That Will Last a Lifetime

Aside from the incredible musical training, some of the best moments were the friendships I made. We came from all over the world, but our shared passion for the arts created an unbreakable bond. Late-night talks, silly jokes, and cheering each other on during performances made my time at Interlochen unforgettable. We supported each other, learned from one another, and created memories I will always cherish.

A Place to Grow and Dream Big

Interlochen isn’t just about developing technical skills; it’s about growing as a person and an artist. The experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me to believe in myself and my abilities. I left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of the power of music to bring people together.

What’s Next?

My time at Interlochen has only fueled my passion for music. With dreams of becoming a prolific and professional musician, I’m more determined than ever to continue my journey, write new songs, and inspire others with my music. The lessons and memories I brought home from Interlochen will carry with me forever, and I can’t wait to see where they take me next.

Attending Interlochen Arts Camp was an experience like no other, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be part of something so extraordinary. If you ever immerse yourself in your passion like I did, I promise you it’s worth every moment.