Interlochen College of Creative Arts will offer virtual programs this summer so adult artists of all skill levels can continue to take part in enriching arts workshops and professional development during this unprecedented era of social distancing.

“We are excited to offer artists inspiration and community during this difficult time,” says Gary Gatzke, Associate Director of Continuing and Community Education at Interlochen Center for the Arts. “In times of crisis, the arts offer us courage, hope and healing.”

For nearly 15 years, Interlochen College of Creative Arts has brought art enthusiasts from around the world to Northern Michigan to hone their skills and discover new passions. Lectures, workshops and seminars are offered year-round in music, visual art, fiber arts, creative writing, theatre, media and more. Accomplished professional artists lead intensive, hands-on courses, which range in length from an hour to a month. Many courses qualify for Michigan Continuing Education Clock Hours.

The following programs will take place virtually this summer:

Virtual Master Teacher Workshop for Flute and Flute Choir Camp // July 11–17
Celebrated flutists Jane Berkner, George Pope, Ali Ryerson and Linda White will lead players of all instruments in the flute family in this fun and interactive program featuring daily warm-up sessions; workshops on breathing, ear training, harmonic skills, rhythm, jazz playing and more; interviews with guest flutists and play-along sessions. The program will conclude with the premiere of a virtually prepared flute choir recording.

Vocal Pedagogy for the Choral Singer Online // July 20–21
Accomplished voice teacher and actor Lindsey Van de Kirk will lead an engaging workshop designed for the beginner or the solo singer looking to improve their vocal knowledge. Topics covered in this eight-hour program include breath management, managing the vocal registers and more.

Techniques in Fingerstyle Guitar Online // July 28
Celebrated guitarists Matthew Schroeder and Thomas Clippert will lead two 90-minute sessions as part of this interactive course perfect for those seeking to brush up their skills in fingerstyle technique or a refresher on technique in preparation for the four-day Fingerstyle Guitar Workshop.

Fingerstyle Guitar Technique Workshop Online // July 29–August 1
Guitarist and instructor Matthew Schroeder will lead this four-day program featuring accomplished guitarists Tom Clippert, Thom Bresh and Calum Graham. Workshops will focus on theory and technique, performance tips and more, as participants gain valuable feedback on their playing through supportive performances and coachings.

Adult Band Camp Online // August 11–14
Join more than 70 adults from around the world and enjoy the study and virtual performance of symphonic band repertoire in a challenging, supportive, fun and friendly environment. Distinguished faculty will teach master classes on instrumental technique, host lectures and prepare students for individual solo video recordings of Gustav Holst’s First Suite in E-flat for Military Band which will be transformed into a virtual performance.

Adult Chamber Music Camp Online // August 17–22
Distinguished string, piano and woodwind musicians will lead pedagogy workshops, masterclasses, presentations and more in this interactive and enriching program. A special virtual chamber music concert series will feature daily live performances by faculty and guest chamber music ensembles from locations across the country.

For additional details, including registration information, visit Interlochen’s website.

Photo(s) by Matt Carissimi