Acceptd's 2026 Summer Guide: Opportunities in the Arts

Published December 2nd, 2025

If you want to have an art-filled summer, look no further than Acceptd's Summer Guide! The 2026 Summer Guide features arts programs for ALL AGES and ALL DISCIPLINES! Keep reading to learn more about some of the many summer programs you can find through Acceptd!


Rocky Ridge Music

Rocky Ridge Music is a music education nonprofit that offers summer and year-round programming to musicians of all ages and levels. We exist to elevate the musician inside each of us to the highest level through a unique, holistic approach—meeting every student where they are, helping them to learn, create, enjoy, and support music—ultimately making all of us more fulfilled as humans.  
Come join us for a life-changing summer camp, held on our beautiful campus in the Rockies!  Our offerings are designed for musicians of all levels and in several exciting genres - Classical, Jazz, and Mariachi.  Apply by March 15th for priority decisions notification and access to potential scholarships.

  • Rocky Ridge Music

  • Program Location: Estes Park, Colorado

  • Program Dates: June - August, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: 

    • Youth Programs, 10-18 (varies by program)

    • College Intensive: 18-24

    • Adult Programs (18+)

  • Artistic Area: Music (Classical, Jazz, Mariachi)

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: October 15th, 2025

    • Deadline: March 15th, 2026


Black female actor in jacket and glasses looking up in to stage lightPerforming Arts Abroad

Train with West End actors, directors, and agents in a major London theatre! Workshop shows with current cast members, then see them on stage the same night. Choose to stay for a one, two, or three-week session. Workshops include acting, singing, dance, stage combat, audition techniques, puppetry, film acting, and more.


The Songbook Academy

The Songbook Academy® is a transformative summer program for 40 high school singers, focused on America’s musical heritage and artistic development. Participants receive personalized mentorship from industry professionals, perform in state-of-the-art concert venues, and build a strong foundation in American popular music. The program fosters confidence, musical growth, and storytelling skills in an inclusive, pre-professional environment. Through immersive experiences and lasting connections, students are empowered to hone their unique voice and pursue their musical passions.

  • The Songbook Academy

  • Program Location: Carmel, Indiana, USA

  • Program Dates: July 11 thru July 18, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: High School Students (USA Only)

  • Artistic Area: Music (Vocalists)

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications Now Open!

    • Deadline: March 22, 2026


Morningside Music Bridge

An international scholarship program for gifted artists 12 – 18 years of age, Morningside Music Bridge brings together the finest emerging artists to perform on an international stage and measure themselves against the very best young performers globally. Participants engage in a month of intensive training and performances. Resident Artist faculty are drawn from the world’s leading performing organizations and schools. Since our inception in 1997 more than 1,000 young artists have benefited from the barrier-free music making experience offered by Morningside Music Bridge. Students participate on a full scholarship basis with tuition, travel and room and board costs provided through the generosity of our sponsors. Our alumni have become today’s leading classical musicians, performing on stages around the world, holding key positions with the best orchestras, and teaching at the top music schools. 

  • Morningside Music Bridge

  • Program Location: Boston, MA, USA

  • Program Dates: July 12 thru August 7, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: 12 - 18

  • Artistic Area: Piano, Violin, Viola Cello and Creative Residency

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications now open!

    • Deadline: January 8th, 2026


FOOSA Festival: Fresno Summer Orchestra Academy

Welcome to the FOOSA International Music Festival! Our two-week summer intensive is for passionate musicians ready to commit to a rigorous daily schedule. Participants engage in orchestra rehearsals, master classes, and numerous performance opportunities. With three programs tailored to accommodate various skill levels, and a world-renowned faculty, FOOSA (Fresno Summer Orchestra Academy) offers something for everyone. Experience the magic of our immersive programs, all packed into two spectacular weeks of music, growth, and unforgettable memories!

  • FOOSA Festival: Fresno Summer Orchestra Academy

  • Program Location: Fresno, California, USA

  • Program Dates: June 13-29, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: High School, College, Pre-Professional

  • Artistic Area: Music (orchestral instrumentalists) 

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications now open! 

    • Deadline: March 18, 2026


BUTI

BUTI is a premier summer training program for talented young musicians ages 14 to 20. BUTI is located in the beautiful Berkshire mountains of Lenox, Massachusetts just down the road from the Tanglewood Music Center: the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO). Because of BUTI’s special relationship with the BSO, students have the opportunity to learn and grow through intensive programming in the presence of some of the world’s greatest music professionals and teachers.

  • Boston University Tanglewood Institute

  • Program Location: Lenox, Massachusetts

  • Program Dates: June 21st - August 15th, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: 14-20

  • Artistic Area: Music (Composition, Instrumental, Vocal)

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications now open!

    • Deadline: January 21st, 2026


Ascent Music Festival

The Ascent International Summer Festivals offer an inspiring experience for dedicated string players aged 13–30. Set on the idyllic campus of Western Reserve Academy in Hudson, OH, Ascent nurtures each musician’s artistic and personal growth through private lessons, studio classes, chamber coachings, orchestral training, and vibrant performance opportunities. Participants also explore enrichment seminars on audition preparation, career development, and musician wellness, alongside four hours of daily solo practice. World-class faculty hail from Juilliard, Peabody, CIM, CCM, and Eastman. The Galvin Cello Quartet is in residence for the Cello Festival, and the Grammy-winning Catalyst Quartet for the Chamber Music Festival.

  • Ascent International Music Festivals - Chamber, Cello & Viola

  • Program Location: Hudson, OH

  • Program Dates: 

    • Cello Festival: June 14th - 20th, 2026

    • Viola Festival: June 14th - 20th, 2026

    • Chamber Music Festival: June 21st - July 11th, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: 13 - 30 (contact to discuss exceptions)

  • Artistic Area: Violin, Viola, Cello

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications now open!

    • Deadline: February 1, 2026


ArtsBridge Summer

ArtsBridge Summer prepares performing artists for their college auditions with intensive training on a college campus. High school students who are seriously considering a major or minor in the arts will work with top college faculty from around the country. Students leave with the confidence and tools needed to succeed in the college audition & admissions process!

  • ArtsBridge Summer

  • Program Location: Baldwin Wallace University, OH

  • Program Dates: July 17th - 31st, 2026

    • Optional add-on week runs from July 12th - 17th

  • Eligible Ages: High School Students (minimum age 15)

  • Artistic Area: Musical Theatre, Acting, Contemporary Voice, Classical Voice, College Admissions

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications now open! 

    • Deadline: May 31, 2026


OCU Summer Programs

OCU Summer Programs offer students of all levels the opportunity to enhance their musical theater skills in a dynamic, immersive environment. Learn from faculty who trained Broadway stars like Kristin Chenoweth and Kelli O'Hara, and engage in rigorous classes, masterclasses, private lessons, and rehearsals. Programs range from short intensives for audition prep to extended experiences for full immersion. With opportunities for scholarships and a fully staged musical, OCU Summer Programs provide unparalleled training and performance opportunities. Apply by January 15th to receive 15% off tuition.

  • Oklahoma City University (OCU) Summer Programs

  • Program Location: Oklahoma City, OK, USA

  • Program Dates: See website for details

  • Eligible Ages: High School Students

  • Artistic Area: Theatre

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications now open! 

    • Deadline: May 31st, 2026


Fordham University Summer Theatre Programs

This summer, immerse yourself in the thing you love—musical theatre—in the city that defines it: New York.

Fordham University’s Summer Session, in collaboration with its exceptional Theatre faculty, offers multiple dynamic training opportunities for college and high school students. Whether you dream of Broadway, want to strengthen your acting foundation, or are just beginning to explore theatre, you’ll find a program designed to help you grow.

  • Fordham University Summer Theatre Programs

  • Program Location: New York, NY

  • Program Dates: See website for details

  • Eligible Ages: 15-22

  • Artistic Area: Theatre, Musical Theatre

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications now open for high school programs; college program applications open December 15

    • Deadline: May 1, 2026


Stella Adler Studio of Acting: Summer Intensives

Join the prestigious Stella Adler Studio of Acting Summer Intensives, where for over 75 years, world-renowned actors have honed their craft. Located in the cultural heart of NYC or LA, our programs offer diverse, top-tier training led by industry experts. Choose from our Summer Conservatory, Musical Theatre, Shakespeare, and Chekhov Intensives, or dive into innovative labs in Physical Theater and Self-Generated Theater. Elevate your skills in a vibrant, creative environment that pushes artistic boundaries. Make this summer unforgettable by training with the best!

  • Stella Adler Studio of Acting: Summer Intensives

  • Program Location: New York, New York

  • Program Dates: see website for details

  • Eligible Ages: 14-18 (Teen Programs), 18+ (Adult Programs)

  • Artistic Area: Theatre (Acting, Drama, Musical Theatre

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications now open!

    • Deadline: Early Bird: February 1, 2026 / Final: March 15, 2026


Borromeo Music Festival

The Borromeo Music Festival in Switzerland is a premier destination for 60 talented piano and string students from around the world. Immerse yourself in a transformative experience with like-minded peers, honing your skills as both a soloist and chamber musician. With the guidance of an internationally acclaimed faculty, you’ll be inspired to push your musical boundaries, all while sharing an unforgettable journey of music-making in the stunning Swiss Alps.

  • Borromeo Music Festival

  • Program Location: Altdorf, Switzerland (Swiss Alps)

  • Program Dates: July 13th - July 27th, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: 14+

  • Artistic Area: Piano and Strings, Chamber Music

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications now open!

    • Deadline:

      • Early Bird: December 15 (50% off application fee)

      • Priority: January 15

      • Final Call: March 15 (or until filled)


Point Park Summer Intensives

Experience world-class training at Point Park University’s nationally recognized summer arts programs. Designed for passionate high school artists, our Choreography Collective, International Summer Dance, and Summer Musical Theatre Intensive offer rigorous instruction led by university faculty and industry professionals. Students refine technique, explore creativity, and build lasting connections in a vibrant downtown Pittsburgh environment. Whether developing original choreography, expanding dance vocabulary, or honing triple-threat performance skills, participants gain invaluable pre-professional experience that prepares them for college and beyond.

  • Point Park Summer Intensives

  • Program Location: Point Park University, Pittsburgh, PA

  • Program Dates: 

    • Choreography Collective

      • 1-week: July 26 – August 1, 2026

    • International Summer Dance

      • 6-week: June 14 – July 25, 2026

      • 3-week: June 14 – July 3, 2026

      • 2-week: July 5 – July 17, 2026

    • Summer Musical Theatre Intensive

      • 2-week: July 5 – July 17, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: 

    • International Summer Dance: Ages 10 - 30

    • Choreography Collective: Ages 15 - 25

    • Summer Musical Theatre Intensive: Ages 15 - 19

    • Please see each program for additional eligibility information.

  • Artistic Area: Dance (Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Modern), Dance Choreography, Musical Theatre, Voice

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications now open! 

    • Deadline: May 25th, 2026


My College Audition (MCA)

MCA’s Summer MT Dance Intensive is the only program designed specifically for beginner and intermediate dancers pursuing Musical Theatre. In one inspiring week, you’ll strengthen your dance technique, grow your choreography pick-up skills, and gain the confidence you need for your college auditions — all in a supportive, challenging, and fun environment. Daily classes in Ballet, Jazz, and MT Dance are paired with conditioning, masterclasses, and mock auditions led by Broadway professionals and auditioning faculty from top college programs. Whether you’re preparing for college auditions next year or just looking to expand your dance skills, the Intensive will leave you stronger, more confident, and excited to step into your next dance audition.

  • My College Audition

  • Program Location: Boston, Massachusetts

  • Program Dates: August 3 - 8, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: 14-19

  • Artistic Area: Musical Theatre, Dance

  • Application Window:

    • Apps Open: Applications now open!

    • Deadline:

      • Early Bird Discount Deadline: December 31st

      • Final Deadline: April 1st


Palmetto International Piano Festival

Palmetto International Piano Festival is a tuition free* program of intensive piano study designed for middle and high school pianists. Set on the beautiful campus of Erskine College in Due West, South Carolina, PIPF offers a focused environment for concentrated study; a family-like atmosphere with a lot of individual attention; mentorship and lessons from the highest caliber faculty; master classes and recitals by world-renowned guest pianists; and several opportunities to perform.

  • Palmetto International Piano Festival

  • Program Location: Erskine College, South Carolina

  • Program Dates: July 5th - July 17th, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: 11 - 18 (exceptions can be made for talented 9 and 10 year olds)

  • Artistic Area: Piano

  • Application Window: 

    • Apps Open: Applications now open! 

    • Deadline: May 1st, 2026


Manchester Music Festival

The Manchester Music Festival’s Young Artists Program is a five-week, full-scholarship chamber music residency for outstanding string players and pianists ages 18–26. Designed as a bridge from conservatory to the concert stage, it offers an immersive summer of performance led by Artistic Director Philip Setzer, founder of the Emerson String Quartet.
Young Artists are at the heart of Festival life—rehearsing, performing, and connecting with world-class guest artists in concerts and community events.
This summer’s theme, Journey: America, celebrates the landscapes of Copland and Ives to the city beats of Gershwin and Bernstein, and Dvořák’s travels through the Midwest.

  • Manchester Music Festival Young Artists Program

  • Program Location: Manchester, located in Southern Vermont amidst the Green Mountains

  • Program Dates: July 5th - August 8th, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: 18 - 26

  • Artistic Area: For string players and pianists prepared to participate in advanced chamber music study within a professional performance environment.

  • Application Window: 

    • Apps Open: Applications now open! 

    • Deadline: January 15th, 2026


Summer University Theatre Experience (SUTE)

SUTE is the Nation's premier Pre-College Summer Theatre Program. Our two-week Audition-Based program is designed to give students the opportunity to work with the top Acting and Musical Theatre University Faculty selected from the most prestigious University Training programs. This Los Angeles based program is designed for students to hone their craft as they learn about the different styles of teaching and programs in preparation for their upcoming College Auditions. Students attend 3 different classes daily taught by 3 different Faculty. Faculty changes every 3 days. Students attend Faculty Info Panels, during which Faculty speak about their programs. There are also special Evening Guest Speakers.

  • Summer University Theatre Experience SUTE

  • Program Location: Los Angeles, California

  • Program Dates: June 13th - 26th, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: Rising Sophomores - Rising Juniors - Rising Seniors - Gap Year

  • Artistic Area: Theatre, Musical Theatre, Screen Acting

  • Application Window: 

    • Apps Open: Applications now open! 

    • Deadline: January 15th, 2026


Garth Newel Music Center

A full fellowship opportunity for passionate young musicians — the Garth Newel Emerging Artist Fellowship offers an inspiring, chamber music-focused summer of performance, mentorship, and artistic growth in the mountains of Virginia. Four weeks of chamber music performances, masterclasses, coachings, and career development; meals (cooked by our acclaimed resident chefs) & lodging provided for free. Collaborate with the Garth Newel Piano Quartet and guest artists Aisslin Noskey, Violaine Melancon, Dana Kelley, and the Pacifica Quartet.

  • Emerging Artist Fellowship Program at Garth Newel Music Center

  • Program Location: Hot Springs, Virginia

  • Program Dates: July 6th - August 3rd, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: 18 - 28

  • Artistic Area: Violin, Viola, Cello, Piano, Chamber Music

  • Application Window: 

    • Apps Open: Applications now open! 

    • Deadline: Early application deadline is February 10th for discounted application fee. Review process begins after February 10th.


Mostly Modern Festival

“Mostly Modern” is truly a result-oriented festival and an immersive experience: attendees perform side-by-side with world class faculty, both in the Mostly Modern Orchestra (MMO) and in chamber music. Mostly Modern is the best place to network with ‘real world’ pros - meet and collaborate with fellow attendees from all over the world to create new job opportunities. Mostly Modern finds pathways that fit your passion with fresh, fun and exciting new music-making.
Chamber music is a cornerstone of the Mostly Modern experience. During the three-week festival, we offer the opportunity to perform in three chamber concerts, plus pop-ups all over Saratoga Springs. Attendees are put in the driver's seat in a collaborative effort to program, rehearse, and perform 20th-century onward repertoire.
Attendees perform in masterclasses instructed by some of the nation's leaders in contemporary music. Participants enhance their skill set through entrepreneurial 'real-world' lectures from top talent Artist Faculty.
The institute accepts up to 120 attendees and has over 40 faculty members. Mostly Modern Festival features the Mostly Modern Orchestra, Mostly Modern Ensemble,  guest ensembles, guest speakers with daily seminars and lectures, and 10-15 concerts. Mostly Modern Festival takes place at Skidmore College at the Arthur Zankel Music Center. Skidmore College is ideally located in Saratoga Springs, New York, 3 hours by car from NYC, Boston, Philadelphia, and Montreal. All public performances take place at the stunning Helen Filene Ladd Concert Hall, a 600-seat acoustically tuned space.

  • Mostly Modern Festival

  • Program Location: Saratoga Springs, New York

  • Program Dates: July 6th - August 3rd, 2026

  • Eligible Ages: 18+, all stages of career

  • Artistic Area: Music composers, conductors, and instrumentalists

  • Application Window: 

    • Apps Open: Applications now open! 

    • Deadline: 

      • Composer Deadline: Early deadline is December 15th, Regular deadline is January 15th, Late deadline is February 1st

      • Conductor & Instrumental Deadline: Early deadline is February 15th, Regular deadline is March 15th, Late deadline is April 15th


Interlochen Arts Camp

Interlochen Arts Camp is a world-renowned summer arts program where young artists hone their talents, grow as individuals, and flourish creatively. From across the nation and around the world, artistic students ages 8-18 convene at Interlochen to expand their skills in the arts. Students learn from renowned arts educators, many who teach at Interlochen Arts Academy, the #1 BestHigh School for the Arts in America. Ready to attend a summer camp like no other? Applications are now open–apply by Jan. 15 for your best chance at your program of choice.

  • Interlochen Arts Camp

  • Program Location: Interlochen, Michigan

  • Program Dates: June 20th - August 9th; Lengths vary per session

  • Eligible Ages: Grades 3 - 12

  • Artistic Area: Creative Writing, Dance, Film & Animation, Theatre, Music (Classical & Contemporary), Visual Arts, and Interdisciplinary Arts

  • Application Window: 

    • Apps Open: Applications now open! 

    • Deadline: January 15th, with rolling admissions afterwards

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