Ithaca College

WATCH ► THE OFFICIAL SMA MUSIC VIDEO!

This month, Ithaca College Summer Music Academy (SMA) celebrated the conclusion of its third successful year. Having enrolled 381 participants—an increase of 19% from 2012—SMA students hailed from 18 states and six foreign countries, including Argentina, Canada, China, Japan, Morocco, and Taiwan. The SMA expanded to offer new programs this year, including an International Division, Performance Track, and Jazz Institute, which each added to the success and prominence of the Academy.

SMA employed over 100 counselors, faculty, and staff, including 32 current IC faculty members, 34 School of Music alumni, and 30 current IC students. The SMA also employed seven incoming freshmen—who were SMA alumni—in the roles of Counselors In Training. A total of 20 SMA alumni will be enrolling this fall as School of Music freshmen.

Thomas Kline, out-going director of music admission and preparatory programs for the School of Music, commented on the focus of the program.

"Our goal for the Summer Music Academy is to provide a preeminent summer music experience that fosters musical and personal growth at the highest level,” Kline said. “For the High School Division specifically, young adults have the opportunity to experience what life is like as an Ithaca College School of Music student."

Kline attributed the continued growth and success of the program to multiple factors, including the ability to attract and hire world-class faculty, who are not only exceptional performers, but also dedicated educators.

"Additionally,” Kline added, “our counselors and staff are instrumental in fostering a professional and supportive environment that is conducive to personal growth."

SMA participants enjoyed numerous musical and non-musical opportunities, including large and small ensemble rehearsals, music theory classes, over 20 elective topics, master classes, and numerous events and concerts. On a closing survey, 100 % of participants indicated that they would recommend the program to their friends.

“We are constantly looking for new ways to create an unforgettable experience for participants,” Kline said in closing. “And this year, High School Division participants had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in the making of a music video."

The final version of the music video, which was produced across three days of filming within the Whalen Center for Music, outdoor spaces on campus, and at Robert H. Treman State Park, can now be viewed from the SMA website.

More information about the Summer Music Academy can be found at ithaca.edu/sma.