Lawrence Summer Music Institute 2026 logo
Designed for advanced high school classical singers who want to take their skills to the next level, the Lawrence Summer Music Institute: Classical Voice welcomes young musicians from around the country for a week of musical study and adventure. Join us for our public performances at the Lawrence Summer Music Institute.

Save the date for the 2027 Lawrence Summer Music Institute: July 11-18, 2027.

2026 Institute Public Concert Schedule

All listed events are free and open to the public.

Wednesday, July 8, 2026 — LSMI Faculty Concert – Harper Hall, Lawrence University, 7 p.m.

Saturday, July 11, 2026 — LSMI: Classical Voice Student Concert – Harper Hall, Lawrence University, 4 p.m.

Saturday, July 11, 2026 — LSMI: Piano & Strings Student Concert – Harper Hall, Lawrence University, 7 p.m.

Sunday, July 12, 2026 — LSMI: Piano & Strings Student Concert – Copper Rock Coffee - downtown Appleton, 10 a.m.

Click here for live stream information.

About the Lawrence Summer Music Institute

Led by world-class instructors and musicians, the Lawrence Summer Music Institute offers an immersive environment that provides the support and inspiration needed for young musicians to develop their craft. From practicing and refining technical skills to exploring musical expression and interpretation, you will experience a comprehensive approach to music-making.

High-school-aged instrumentalists and singers participate in an exciting week-long workshop focusing on building classical and contemporary performance music skills. The Summer Music Institute will feature private lessons, group coaching, performance opportunities, and workshops in a collaborative environment with Lawrence Conservatory faculty and guest artists.

In Summer 2026, we are offering three programs which run concurrently, July 5-12, 2026. The Percussion and Piano & Strings programs are linked below and the Classical Voice program details follow. 

Highlights of the Program

  • Dates: Sunday, July 5 – Sunday, July 12, 2026
  • Age: Open to students currently in 8th through 12th grades, including those graduating high school in 2026.
  • Faculty: See below for our Summer 2026 faculty.
  • Enrollment Cap: 15
  • Audition required: See registration form for details.
  • Student Cost
    $950 Tuition
    $355 Lodging
    $300 Meals
    (Options are available for commuters. The purchasing of lodging and meals are not required for participation.)
  • Application cut-off date: 6/1/2026

Applications for the 2026 LSMI have closed. If you have interest in attending the 2027 Institute, please follow the link above to submit an interest inquiry form, or check back here when live application forms are posted soon. For questions about applications, fellowships, scholarships, or for any other information please email summermusicinstitute@lawrence.edu.

Applications accepted until June 1, a recorded audition is required, and space is limited. For questions about applications, or for any other information, please email summermusicinstitute@lawrence.edu.

Your generous donation is tax-deductible and helps sustain the Lawrence Summer Music Institute's unique programming. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please email summermusicinstitute@lawrence.edu.

The Encore Scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional promise as musicians and community members through participation in a Lawrence-affiliated event, such as the Lawrence Summer Music Institute. Valued at up to $2,000 per year, the award celebrates your engagement with the Conservatory and invites you to continue your musical journey with us.

All LSMI attendees who are rising seniors and younger will be nominated for this scholarship. To receive the award, you must be admitted to and enroll in the Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Musical Arts, or Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Music dual-degree program at Lawrence University.

Summer 2026 Faculty

Curriculum for Student Singer Participants

  • A short chamber music repertoire assignment, coached by members of our faculty, and culminating in a performance
  • Private Lessons focusing on technique and coachings on solo repertoire chosen
  • Symposia – topical discussions that will help you grow your musicianship
  • Performance Skills Development Workshops (diction, dramatic interpretation, familiarity with basic voice anatomy and physiology, etc.)

Sample Schedule

7:45 – 8:45 a.m. – Breakfast
9 – 10 a.m. –  Performance Skills for Singers class
10 – 11 a.m. – Individual or ensemble coaching
11 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Symposium
12 – 1 p.m. – Lunch
1 – 2 p.m. – Free time
2 – 3 p.m. – Private lesson
3 – 4 p.m. – Ensemble rehearsal
4 – 5 p.m. – Sound walk or outdoor games
5:30 – 6:30 p.m. – Dinner
7 – 9:30 p.m. – Attend a concert / fun curated activity / group music making (improv, songwriting, large ensemble playing)

Applications for the 2026 LSMI have closed. If you have interest in attending the 2027 Institute, please follow the link above to submit an interest inquiry form, or check back here when live application forms are posted soon. For questions about applications, fellowships, scholarships, or for any other information please email summermusicinstitute@lawrence.edu.

Your generous donation is tax-deductible and helps sustain the Lawrence Summer Music Institute's unique programming. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please email summermusicinstitute@lawrence.edu.

Kate Stevenson recording vocals at SOL Studios

About the Lawrence Conservatory of Music

The Lawrence Conservatory of Music prepares musicians to create a more thoughtful, meaningful, and beautiful world within:

  • a motivated community that cultivates artistry and excellence through rigorous training,
  • a diverse community that fosters intellectual growth through critical inquiry and scholarship
  • a creative community that connects passion for music to social engagement and innovative thinking