Young Musicians & Artists: A Summer Camp for Creativity and Excellence

Looking for a summer experience that blends high-quality arts training with all the magic of a traditional summer camp? Look no further than Young Musicians & Artists (YMA)! For over 60 years, YMA has inspired generations of young creatives to develop their craft, connect with peers, and grow as both artists and individuals. Whether your child is a performer, writer, visual artist, or behind-the-scenes stage-tech whiz, YMA offers a vibrant, enriching community where they can thrive. Programs are designed for campers who have completed the fourth grade up through the summer following high school graduation.

Founded with a mission to nurture artistic expression in a supportive and immersive environment, YMA has grown into a premier residential summer program that fosters confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of the arts. Our alumni have gone on to perform on prestigious stages, teach the next generation of artists, and carry their artistic passion into all facets of life.

“This experience has transformed his, and by extension our whole family’s, relationship with music in many remarkable ways. As a parent, seeing his confidence grow while enjoying making music is also a gift unto itself.” –YMA Parent

But YMA is more than just an arts camp; it’s a vibrant community where young artists forge lasting friendships and develop skills that extend beyond the arts. As one student shared, “YMA is a place where I can be myself and express my creativity without judgment. The supportive community has helped me grow not just as an artist, but as a person.”

In just two weeks at YMA, students experience extraordinary artistic growth while forming lasting friendships in a fun, traditional camp environment. Whether rehearsing with an ensemble, crafting a new piece of art, or collaborating on stage, each day is filled with meaningful learning and joyful connection. Surrounded by passionate peers and dedicated mentors, campers enhance their creative skills and build confidence—all while making unforgettable summer memories.

Our programs are held on the picturesque campus of Willamette University in Salem, Oregon, providing an inspiring setting for creativity and growth. Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to register soon to secure your spot in these transformative programs. For more information and to register, please visit our website: ymaarts.org

Session 1: June 22 – July 4, 2025

Orchestra

Our Orchestra program unites young string, woodwind, brass, and percussion musicians in a full symphonic experience. Under the baton of experienced conductor Raúl Gómez-Rojas, students rehearse daily, explore orchestral literature, and build ensemble skills. The program culminates in a powerful final concert.

Band & Jazz

The Band program provides students with the opportunity to strengthen their technique, tone, and ensemble playing in a supportive and inspiring environment. In addition to concert band rehearsals, students may also have the opportunity to explore jazz band settings, diving into improvisation, swing rhythms, and ensemble performance. Under the guidance of expert faculty, including Thomas Barber of Pink Martini leading the Jazz program, students rehearse daily and explore diverse and exciting repertoire. This immersive musical experience builds confidence, collaboration, and musicianship—culminating in a thrilling final concert performance.

Choir

Led by esteemed faculty members Anna Song and Blake Applegate, the Choir program offers a dynamic blend of concert choir and voice classes. Students explore vocal genres from classical and folk to jazz and contemporary. The curriculum emphasizes healthy vocal techniques, musicianship, and ensemble skills. Rehearsals incorporate vocal warm-ups, rhythmic exercises, sight-reading, and movement, culminating in the Final Performance on the last day of camp.

Piano

Tailored for students who have completed at least the 6th grade, the Piano program offers individualized instruction focusing on technique, interpretation, and performance skills. Participants build musical expression and confidence through solo and collaborative opportunities.

Guitar

Designed for aspiring guitarists, this program provides comprehensive instruction in various styles and techniques. Students develop skills through individual and group lessons, focusing on repertoire, improvisation, and ensemble playing. One student reflected, “Before attending YMA, I was shy about performing. Now, I feel confident sharing my music with others, and I’ve made lifelong friends who share my passion.”

Session 2: July 6 – July 18, 2025

Dance

Welcoming students with at least one year of dance experience, the Dance program includes daily classes in technique, choreography, and performance. Dancers train in both contemporary and African dance and showcase their development in a final performance.

Theatre

Theatre program blends discipline with creative expression. Students participate in vocal and physical training, character development, improvisation, and ensemble work. Their efforts culminate in a performance for family and friends at the end of the camp session.

Visual Arts

In the Visual Arts program, young artists explore drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media. They build portfolios and technical skills while expressing their personal vision. The session concludes with a gallery-style exhibition.

Musical Theatre (waitpool only)

This program integrates singing, acting, and movement. Participants rehearse and perform scenes from popular and classic musicals, building solo and ensemble confidence. The final high-energy performance celebrates the magic of musical theatre.

Tech Theatre (waitpool only)

Perfect for behind-the-scenes enthusiasts, the Tech Theatre program provides hands-on training in stagecraft, lighting, sound, costuming, and set construction. Students work alongside the Theatre and Musical Theatre programs to bring productions to life.

Songwriting (waitpool only)

Empowering young musicians to create original songs, the Songwriting program explores melody, harmony, and lyric writing. Students collaborate with peers, workshop material with instructors, and study song structure and storytelling. The session ends with a showcase of student-composed works.

Creative Writing (waitpool only)

This program offers workshops in poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and dramatic writing. Students share their work in a supportive community and develop their voice through prompts, readings, and editorial feedback.

Photography (waitpool only)

Students master digital camera techniques while developing a personal artistic vision. Instruction in composition, lighting, and editing helps students create portfolios for a final exhibition.

“The instructors at YMA truly care about each student’s growth. Their guidance has been invaluable in developing my skills and confidence.”

We look forward to welcoming your young artists to YMA this summer and witnessing the incredible artistry they’ll bring to our community!

*All photos: David Kinder, Kinderpics