EASTERN U.S. MUSIC CAMP 2027
Colgate University · Hamilton, New York

Give Your Young Musician a Summer Filled With Music, Growth & Connection

A 2- or 3-week summer music experience for students ages 11–18, combining intensive musical opportunities, performances, recreation and life on the beautiful Colgate University campus.

June 27 – July 18, 2027 2- or 3-Week Sessions
Ages 11–18 · No Audition Required to Enroll · Overnight & Day Student Options

Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum enrollment of 150 students per session.

50th Season Colgate University
EUSMC students performing together in orchestra and chamber ensembles
Real EUSMC Experience

Ensemble rehearsals, masterclasses, and vibrant musical collaboration

Max 150 Campers Personalized Faculty Attention
A Summer Music Tradition Since 1976

Built on Decades of Musical Growth, Inspiration & Care

50+ Years of EUSMC

Founded in 1976 and dedicated to inspiring creativity, confidence and character through excellence in music.

Colgate University Campus

Students study, perform, live and enjoy recreational activities on the Colgate University campus in Hamilton, New York.

Ages 11–18

A summer experience created specifically for young musicians.

No Audition Required to Enroll

Students do not need an admission audition to attend EUSMC.

24/7 Student Supervision

Students are supervised around the clock by experienced music faculty and qualified counselors.

The EUSMC Experience

More Than a Music Camp

At Eastern U.S. Music Camp, students have the opportunity to grow as musicians while becoming part of a supportive community of young people who share their passion for music.

The EUSMC experience combines musical study, rehearsals, performances, individual coaching and recreational and social activities in a friendly, non-competitive environment.

EUSMC students enjoying social time and walking together on Colgate University campus
Colgate Campus Life

Lifelong Friendships Beyond the Classroom

From dining hall conversations to campus recreation and scenic walks, campers bond in an inspiring, welcoming summer environment.

Grow as a Musician

Students learn through daily classes and rehearsals, individual coaching, ensembles, workshops, masterclasses, concerts and recitals.

Perform With Other Young Musicians

Weekly concerts and recitals give students frequent opportunities to rehearse and perform new music.

Make Music Their Own Way

Students can design their own daily schedule and participate in multiple performing groups, ensembles and musical areas.

Build Friendships & Confidence

The EUSMC experience combines music with recreation and social activities, creating opportunities for students to connect, develop confidence and enjoy camp life together.

Experience EUSMC

See What a Summer at EUSMC Feels Like

From rehearsals and performances to friendships and campus life, EUSMC gives young musicians the opportunity to spend their summer immersed in music.

60–90s Camp Experience Reel Watch Now
Watch Camp Life & Performances

Eastern U.S. Music Camp at Colgate University

Rehearsals · Masterclasses · Performances · Campus Life

Sound On
Orchestra & Jazz Band, choir, rock & ensembles
Faculty Coaching Piano, strings, brass & woodwinds
Colgate Campus Life Dormitories, dining & recreation
Concerts & Applause Weekly recitals & celebrations
2027 Music Program

Build a Summer Around the Music They Love

Every EUSMC student has the opportunity to design a daily schedule around their musical interests. Students may participate in several performing groups and ensembles and may study more than one instrument and/or voice.

Included in Camp Tuition: Participation on more than one instrument and/or voice is included with no extra fees.
Symphony Orchestra and strings rehearsal at EUSMC
Orchestra & Strings
Wind ensemble and band performance at Colgate University
Band & Winds
Jazz ensemble and daily music classes
Jazz Ensembles
Piano, vocal and masterclasses coaching
Masterclasses & Piano

Orchestra & Strings

Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra and string ensembles.

Band & Winds

Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, wind chamber groups and instrumental ensembles.

Jazz

Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combos and improvisation opportunities.

Guitar & Rock

Guitar ensembles, guitar workshop and contemporary rock ensembles.

Voice & Choir

Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, vocal workshops and vocal ensembles.

Piano

Piano workshop, piano ensembles and chamber music opportunities.

Additional Musical Study

Students can also explore areas including:

Music Theory Harmony & Composition Conducting Improvisation Guided Practice Masterclasses Workshops
Stage & Recital Experience

Learn. Rehearse. Perform.

Performance is an important part of the EUSMC experience.

EUSMC students performing in Brehmer Theater concert with full orchestra and audience
Brehmer Theater · Colgate University

Live Stage Experience & Vibrant Audiences

From solo recitals to grand orchestral finales, students experience the thrill of performing in professional collegiate acoustic halls.

Frequent Weekly Performance Opportunities

Performing groups rehearse Monday through Saturday and students have frequent opportunities to perform through weekly concerts and recitals.

Welcoming Parents, Friends & Community

Camp recitals feature music across a variety of styles, genres and levels of complexity, and parents and friends are welcome to attend EUSMC concerts, recitals and guest performances.

Guest Artists & Masterclasses

Professional artists also participate in concerts, workshops, masterclasses and recitals throughout the summer.

Fit & Eligibility

Is EUSMC Right for My Child?

EUSMC welcomes young musicians ages 11–18 who want to spend part of their summer learning, performing and connecting with other students who enjoy music.

Ages 11–18
No audition required to enroll
Instrumental and vocal opportunities
Multiple ensembles and performing groups
Students may participate on more than one instrument and/or voice
Students can customize their daily schedule
Faculty assistance is available to help students select and adjust their schedules
Musical and recreational activities are part of the camp experience

Important Clarification

Some performing groups may use auditions for seating or placement so students can participate at an appropriate level. An audition is not required for admission to EUSMC.

Young musicians of different ages smiling and playing together at EUSMC
Supportive & Non-Competitive

A Supportive Community for Every Young Musician

Whether preparing for advanced collegiate conservatory study or building lifelong artistic passion, every camper finds their rhythm at EUSMC.

Camp Life & Friendships

Music Is Only Part of the Experience

Summer at EUSMC also includes supervised recreational, sports and social activities.

During their free time, campers can enjoy the Colgate University campus, outdoor games and organized activities while building friendships with other young musicians.

Evening & Recreational Activities May Include:

Volleyball Tournaments
Camper & Staff Recitals
Talent Shows
Dance Parties
Movie Nights
Outdoor Games
Supervised Visits to Hamilton

At EUSMC, students spend their summer surrounded by other young people who share a genuine interest in music — both in rehearsals and outside the music room.

Health, Safety & Supervision

Your Child's Health & Safety Are a Top Priority

For parents, sending a child away to camp comes with important questions about supervision, health and safety.

EUSMC has established procedures and supervision designed specifically for its student population.

24/7 Supervision

Students are supervised 24 hours a day, seven days a week by experienced music faculty and carefully selected, qualified counselors.

Counselors in the Residence Halls

Counselors reside on the same dormitory floors as students and are available for assistance and support.

Colgate University Campus Safety

Colgate University Campus Safety officers are on duty 24/7.

On-Campus Health Support

A Campus Nurse or Emergency Medical Technician resides on campus and is available when needed.

Hospital Nearby

If an illness or injury requires additional medical assistance, students can be taken to Community Memorial Hospital, located adjacent to the campus.

Parent Notification

Parents are immediately notified in the event of an emergency.

New York State Oversight

The EUSMC program is inspected and certified annually by the New York State Department of Health.

Colgate University campus residence halls and safe grounds
Secure Colgate Campus Environment
Faculty and counselors mentoring young musicians at EUSMC
Dedicated 24/7 Counselors & Faculty

Certified by New York State

Inspected and certified annually by the NYS Department of Health.

Colgate University · Hamilton, NY

Spend the Summer on the Colgate University Campus

Eastern U.S. Music Camp is conducted on the Colgate University campus in Hamilton, New York.

Campers have access to university facilities used for music, housing, dining and recreation throughout their EUSMC experience.

Panoramic scenic view of Colgate University campus in Hamilton, New York
Historic Colgate University · Established 1819

World-Class Collegiate Setting & Scenic Grounds

Nestled in the picturesque Chenango Valley of Central New York, providing an inspiring and safe summer home for young musicians.

Campus Facilities Used by EUSMC Include

Dana Arts Center Brehmer Theater concert performance
Music & Performance Hub

Dana Arts Center

Home to concerts, recitals, rehearsals, clinics, classes, workshops, private lessons and practice rooms.

Classrooms and rehearsal studios in Little Hall and Ryan Studio
Academic & Rehearsal Spaces

Ryan Studio & Little Hall

Used for daily rehearsals, sectional coaching, masterclasses, theory courses and workshops.

Students outside Colgate University residence halls
Student Housing

Residence Halls

Overnight students live in university residence halls. In recent years, rooms have generally accommodated two students with counselor supervision on every floor.

Campers enjoying meals and socializing on Colgate campus
Dining & Nutrition

Frank Dining Hall

Campers eat in a university dining facility located a short walk from the residence halls, offering balanced meal options and accommodating dietary needs.

Colgate University campus grounds and recreational amenities
Campus Amenities & Recreation

Recreational Facilities & Campus Grounds

Students also have opportunities to enjoy the university campus and recreational amenities during camp, including athletic fields, walking trails, and open green spaces.

Housing & Dining

Comfortable Campus Living

A welcoming collegiate environment where students feel at home, well-nourished and supported 24/7.

Colgate University residence halls where EUSMC overnight students live
Colgate Residence Halls
Overnight Student Housing

Residence Hall Living

Overnight campers live in Colgate University residence halls, with counselors living on the same floors as students.

Counselors reside on the same dormitory floors as students.
Room assignments made by gender and age, with students grouped by age on residence hall floors when possible.
Comfortable rooms accommodating two students in a secure collegiate dormitory setting.
EUSMC campers enjoying nutritious meals and dining together
Frank Dining Hall
Nutrition & Meal Plans

Dining & Nutritious Meals

Camp tuition for overnight students includes all daily meals in the university dining facility, just a short walk from dorms.

All daily meals included in tuition for overnight students.
Vegetarian and vegan choices offered at every meal in addition to regular menus.
Meals for special diets available upon request at no additional cost.
Day students receive lunch Monday through Saturday as part of their program.
Mentorship & Excellence

Learn From Experienced Music Educators & Performing Artists

EUSMC faculty and staff include professional educators, solo artists, composers and conductors.

Faculty members provide musical instruction, ensemble direction, individual coaching, workshops and masterclasses throughout the summer.

Kyle English, Camp Director at EUSMC

Kyle English

Camp Director

Director of Choral Programs — Weeks 1–2

Karen de Almeida, Co-Camp Director at EUSMC

Karen de Almeida

Co-Camp Director

Administration & Student Care

Kenneth Jernigan, Director of Orchestral & String Programs at EUSMC

Kenneth Jernigan

Director of Orchestral & String Programs

Weeks 1–2

Leonardo Passarelli, Head of Piano Department at EUSMC

Leonardo Passarelli

Head of Piano Department

Weeks 1–3

Chris Nappi, Director of Percussion Programs at EUSMC

Chris Nappi

Director of Percussion Programs

Weeks 1–3

Scott Byers, Director of Band & Wind Programs at EUSMC

Scott Byers

Director of Band & Wind Programs

Week 3

Faculty is subject to change. Additional faculty may be announced.

Family & Alumni Experiences

What Families & Musicians Say About EUSMC

Read how a summer at Eastern U.S. Music Camp inspires confidence, builds lifelong friendships, and accelerates musical growth.

Parent of Camper

Short Hills, New Jersey

“EUSMC exposed our son to other young musicians who genuinely love music, helping motivate and inspire him beyond our expectations. Being surrounded by such talented, supportive peers transformed his passion for playing.”

Parent of 15-Year-Old Oboist

Beijing, China (International)

“Our 15-year-old daughter traveled to EUSMC while our family remained overseas. She was absolutely thrilled with the experience, felt her oboe playing improved significantly, and immediately asked to return next summer!”

Returning Camper

Boston, Massachusetts

“I truly enjoyed the people, conductors, faculty and positive atmosphere of the camp, as well as the challenge and fun of collaborating with new musicians. It is the highlight of my summer every year.”

A Glimpse Back at Summer 2026

Some summers stay with us forever.

This summer was especially meaningful as we celebrated 50 incredible years of friendship, music-making, laughter, traditions, and unforgettable memories. Half a century of children arriving as strangers and leaving with friendships that last a lifetime.

Looking back, it’s not just the big moments we remember — it’s the laughter around the dining table, the songs we sang together in choir, the beautiful music we made in orchestra, band, and jazz ensembles, the fun and games, the little traditions, the friendships, and all those moments that somehow become memories we carry with us forever.

50 years behind us, and a whole new generation of memories ahead.

As we look toward Summer 2027, we can’t wait to open our doors again, make new friendships, sing new songs, and create the kind of summer your child will look back on years from now and say:

“Those were the best summers of my life.”
2027 Season · Summer Dates & Rates

Choose Your 2027 Session

Transparent, single-fee tuition with no hidden audition or multiple-instrument fees.

2-Week Session

Option 1: June 27 – July 11, 2027
Option 2: July 4 – July 18, 2027
Overnight Student Includes room, all meals & classes
$3,750
Day Student Includes classes & Mon–Sat lunch
$1,450
ENROLL FOR 2 WEEKS

What Tuition Includes

EUSMC operates on a not-for-profit, single-fee basis. For overnight campers, tuition includes:

Lodging
Meals
Music Instruction
Campus Health Services
In-Camp Activities
Multi-Instrument / Voice
Multi-Discipline Inclusion: Participation on more than one instrument and/or voice is included at no additional tuition cost. For day students, tuition includes the complete program plus lunch Monday through Saturday.

Optional Add-Ons & Extras

Optional private lessons, class workbook and laundry are not included in standard tuition.

Optional 1-on-1 Private Lessons:
Half-Hour Lesson: $45 / 30 min
Full Hour Lesson: $90 / 60 min

$50 Registration Fee

A $50 non-refundable registration fee must accompany each application.

Due June 1, 2027

All balance payments are due in full by June 1, 2027.

First-Come, First-Served

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until capacity is reached.

150 Students Max

Maximum enrollment is 150 students per session to ensure close mentoring.

Financial Support & Merit Awards

Scholarship Opportunities Are Available

For the 2027 program, EUSMC currently offers merit-based scholarship awards:

100% Tuition Covered

Full Scholarships

Full tuition scholarships are available for qualified students studying:

Violin Clarinet Tuba
Partial Merit Grant

$2,000 Scholarships

Scholarships of $2,000 are also being offered for other instruments, reducing the published cost of the 3-week camp program from $5,625 to $3,625 for eligible recipients.

Reduces 3-Week Tuition from $5,625 to $3,625
For scholarship information or to apply, contact:

Scholarship availability and eligibility are subject to the current EUSMC program and should be confirmed with the camp.

EUSMC students performing in ensemble rehearsal
Merit Support · 2027 Program

Investing in Young Artistic Talent

EUSMC is dedicated to making intensive collegiate musical training accessible to gifted and motivated young musicians.

Clear Answers for Families

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about auditions, daily schedules, campus life, supervision, dining, and travel to Colgate University.

No. An audition is not required to enroll in Eastern U.S. Music Camp.

Some performing groups may hold auditions for seating or placement to accommodate different ability levels after students are part of the program.

Eastern U.S. Music Camp is designed specifically for young musicians ages 11–18.

Yes. Students are able to design their own schedule and participate in several groups and on more than one instrument and/or voice.

Faculty can also assist students with their schedule during registration.

Students live in residence halls on the Colgate University campus. In recent years, dorm rooms have generally accommodated two students per room.

Roommates are assigned by gender and age, and students are grouped by age on residence hall floors when possible.

Yes. Students are supervised 24/7 by experienced music faculty and qualified counselors.

Counselors reside on the same residence hall floors as campers and are available for assistance and support.

Vegetarian and vegan options are offered at every meal, and meals for special diets are available upon request at no additional cost.

Yes. Optional private lessons are offered weekly with professional faculty.

  • $45 — 30 minutes
  • $90 — 60 minutes

Students may schedule lessons on more than one instrument or voice if desired.

The EUSMC website currently lists several travel options:

  • For air travel, Syracuse Hancock International Airport is the referenced airport, with Colgate-on-Demand shuttle service available for transportation to campus.
  • Bus service from New York City is also referenced, with drop-off at Colgate University.
  • Families driving to campus receive additional travel information after registration.

There is no fixed enrollment deadline listed, but applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Enrollment is limited to 150 students per session.

Still have questions about the 2027 season?

Our administrative office is here to help guide you through every step.

CONTACT US DIRECTLY
EUSMC students performing in Brehmer Theater concert
Summer 2027 Enrollment Open

Give Them a Summer Filled With Music

At Eastern U.S. Music Camp, young musicians can spend 2 or 3 weeks learning, rehearsing, performing and connecting with other students who share their passion for music — all on the Colgate University campus.

June 27 – July 18, 2027
Ages 11–18
No Audition Required to Enroll
Overnight & Day Programs

Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Enrollment is limited to 150 students per session.

Direct Admissions & Office Support

Have Questions? Contact Us

Our administrative office and directors are here to help guide you through the registration process and answer any questions.

Call Our Office

Speak directly with our camp leadership and administrative team.

Email Inquiries

Send us your questions regarding sessions, scholarships or enrollment.

Camp Location

Eastern U.S. Music Camp is proudly conducted on the historic university grounds: