Applications Open for New England Conservatory’s 2025 Summer Programs

Applications to the conservatory's orchestra institute and jazz programs have now been extended

Boston’s New England Conservatory (NEC) is inviting musicians of all ages to join its summer programs to connect with fellow artists and learn from acclaimed faculty members. 

Applications have now been extended for NEC’s Summer Orchestra Institute (SOI), which is a four-week full symphony orchestra program open to intermediate- to advanced-level string, brass, wind, and percussion students aged 13 to 18.

SOI students have the option to attend one session for two weeks or the full four weeks. The first session is from July 6–19, and the second will take place from July 20 to August 2, 2025. 

Offering intensive musical preparation, with focus on practice and performance techniques, interpretation, phrasing, and musicianship, the 2025 SOI will be conducted by Alyssa Wang. Also a violinist and composer, Wang is a recipient of the New Music USA Creator Fund, the Solti Foundation Career Assistance Award, and the St. Botolph Emerging Artist Award. 

This year’s SOI repertoire will include Elgar’s Variations of an Original Theme “Enigma,” Op.36; Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5; Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition; and Mahler’s Symphony No. 1. 

The application deadline is January 31, 2025. To apply, click here. 

More programs open include the NEC Jazz Lab for participants aged 13 to 18, who will have the opportunity to learn from world-class faculty and guest artists in small ensembles, instrumental workshops, masterclasses, and performances.

The Jazz Lab will run from June 29 to July 5, 2025. The deadline for applications is also January 31, 2025. To apply, click here. 

Additionally, NEC will be hosting its Jazz Lab: Players and Educators Workshop from June 22 to 28, 2025. 

Participants will learn from NEC faculty and guest artists while refining skills, exploring pedagogy, and engaging with industry-specific topics. Applications to this program will close on February 14, 2025. To apply, click here. 

“NEC summer programs are designed to spark transformative growth for musicians of all levels,” said Dr. Christopher Bush, NEC’s Director of Adult Education and Summer Programs. “Whether you’re exploring orchestral performance, diving into the vibrant world of jazz, or refining your teaching skills, our programs offer unparalleled opportunities to connect with exceptional faculty and peers. These experiences not only build technical skills but also foster creativity, collaboration, and a lifelong love for music.”

More information is accessible here.