Summer Orchestra Institute
NEC’s Summer Orchestra Institute is a four-week full symphony orchestra program open to intermediate- to advanced-level strings, brass, winds, and percussion students ages 13-18.
Students have the option to attend one session for two weeks or the full program for four weeks.
Session 1: July 6-19, 2025
Session 2: July 20-August 2, 2025
Summer Orchestra Institute Experience
The Summer Orchestra Institute (SOI) experience emphasizes intensive musical preparation, placing special focus on concentration, practice and performance techniques, interpretation, phrasing, and general musicianship. Students will develop communication and leadership skills through their musical collaborations, learning the joy of music-making while developing lasting friendships. Social activities are scheduled throughout the four-week session.
Program activities include full orchestral rehearsals, private lessons, sectional rehearsals, masterclasses, health and wellness seminars, professional development classes, individual practice time, and performance opportunities in NEC’s historic Jordan Hall.
Please note: Students must be 13 years old on July 1, 2025 to participate in the program as an on-campus boarding student.
SOI 2024 Repertoire Highlights
- Holst: The Planets
- Sibelius: Finlandia, op.26
- Kaija Saariaho: Asteroid 4179: Toutatis
- Rimsky-Korsakov: Capriccio espagnol
- Lili Boulanger: D’un matin de printemps
SOI 2025 Repertoire Highlights Coming Soon!
How to Apply
Submit one solo piece of your choice and two contrasting standard orchestral excerpts.
2025 Tuition and Fees Coming Soon!
Students have the option of choosing to be a day student or boarding student in our state-of-the-art NEC dormitory, the Student Life and Performance Center, located in the heart of Boston. Additional evening activities are planned for boarding students.
Financial aid opportunities are available for accepted students. More information is available during registration.