Side by Side: Summer Music Intensive (SS-SMI) 2026
ApplyTwo weeks. endless growth.
Your summer music adventure starts here.
Side by Side: Summer Music Intensive (SS-SMI) aims to bring music in an accessible light to students. With two free week-long sessions and many instruments offered, we aim to support students in grades 3 - 8. This program also serves as a music community long after the program ends, with experienced musicians available after the program for 1-1 mentoring with student growth. Students in grades 7 and 8 will receive priority consideration in Side by Side leadership roles and new opportunities in our organization.
Online Community
Discussions occur through Slack, which students use to communicate with each other outside of class.
Individual Instruction
1-1 communication channels with program directors for guidance occur everyday. Private lessons occur throughout the week.
Online Classes
There are up to 3 hours of instruction per day with additional private 1-1 lessons with program directors. Lessons will cover technique, music theory, group playing, and more!
Discover Opportunities
Resources and guidance on future opportunities such as audition guidance, music programs, youth orchestras, and more.
Support All Year
After the program ends, program directors will continue to assist you. Additionally, students may continue 1-1 instruction during the year with a program director for no charge.
Performance Opportunities
The program will culminate with a performance featuring solo selections from all students. In addition, students have the opportunity to perform in studio classes and masterclasses.
Logistics
Program Specifics
Overview
All instruction will be held via Google Meet, with online discussions occuring through Slack. We will actively ensure students are safe online.
Group lessons
Group lessons will include music theory lessons, general technique lessons, studio classes, and masterclasses.
Private lessons
Private lessons will also occur for more detailed, personalized instruction on solo works and techniques, which will be 30-45 minutes long with a program director.
Schedule
All classes and events will occur between 10 AM to 9 PM EDT. The specific schedule will be announced closer to the start date and may be scattered across the day.
Program Dates
June 7 - June 14
One week of daily group lessons (two 45-minute sessions/day) covering theory, technique, history, and more.
June 21 - June 28
Completely identical to Session 1, just at a different time to ensure smaller group sizes.
Contact Us
Have any questions, suggestions, or comments? Let us know!
