Monday–Friday, 6:00–9:00 PM
Lilly Hall at Butler University
Tuition: $200
Registration deadline: July 1
Please email BCAS@butler.edu to register.
We are pleased to welcome any adult string musician (violin, viola, cello, bass) with at least one year’s experience on their instrument. We’ll explore the joys of chamber music, large ensemble playing as well as learn new practice techniques that we can apply to all of our music. This is the perfect way to end your summer!
Meet the Artistic Directors!
Shannon M. Crow is a graduate of Butler University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. Ms. Crow has been teaching private violin and viola lessons for over 20 years, and has extensive experience teaching students from 4 years to 80 years of age. Currently she conducts Orchestra B and the Parent Orchestra of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, as well as teaches private lessons. At the Butler Community Arts School, Shannon founded and directs the Adult Strings Ensembles, the Butler Children’s Orchestra, Butler Youth Orchestra and Butler Strings Camp, as well as teaches private violin and viola lessons. When not teaching private lessons, Ms. Crow has partnered with the VA in research and in supporting our veterans through music; and is an avid performer in local orchestras and for private events.
Abby Witt currently serves as the Business Operations Manager and a Teaching Fellow for the Butler Community Arts School (BCAS) in Indianapolis, Indiana. Prior to her work at Butler, she was a member of the Lexington Chamber Orchestra in Lexington, Kentucky and a strings teacher in the Friends in Music program of the Central Kentucky Youth Orchestra. As a cellist, she attended the Brevard Summer Music Festival in Brevard, North Carolina in the summers of 2016 and 2017, and attended the Vienna Summer Music Festival in Vienna, Austria in the summer of 2018. She was selected to perform in the collegiate cello master class at the 2016 American String Teachers Association (ASTA) Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and has won several competitions in Kentucky, including the Eastern Kentucky University Symphony’s concerto competition. Abby obtained her Bachelors degree in Cello Performance from Eastern Kentucky University, a Masters degree in Cello Performance from Butler University, and an Associates degree in Business Management from Eastern Gateway Community College. In addition to her managerial duties at BCAS, she maintains a private cello studio and assists with the BCAS Adult Strings Ensembles.
*Please note that the second week of Arts Camp, July 24-28, is at capacity. To be added to the waitlist, please email BCAS@butler.edu
Monday–Friday, 1:30–5:00 PM
Lilly Hall at Butler University
Tuition: $235
Registration deadline: May 31
Due to popular demand, we are offering TWO iterations of Arts Camp this summer. Both camps will be identical, so sign your student up for the week that best fits your schedule.
Butler Arts Camp is designed for students who wish to explore ALL of the arts—music, visual art, theatre, and dance—in fun, hands-on activities with Butler students. NO previous experience necessary. Our intent is to stimulate imagination and provide attainable challenges while exploring new art forms. Tuition includes T-shirt and all materials.
Meet the Artistic Director!
Abi Smith is an active music teacher in Bloomington, Indiana. While studying piano at Butler (16′), she taught at several summer camps such as Piano Scholars, Piano Camp, and Arts Camp. She has taught private lessons at BCAS since 2013 and has directed the Arts Camp program for three years. She is passionate about inspiring beginner students to understand their own world through all of the arts.
Morning Options
Arts Camp takes place in the afternoon. Morning options are available during both weeks. Morning camps begin at 9am and end at 12:30pm. Supervision and lunch provided between camps.
Arts Camp week of July 17th
- Strings Camp – ages 7-12 – one year of prior study required
- Piano Camp – 7-12 – one year of prior study required
Arts Camp week of July 24th
- Dance Camp – ages 7-12 – no experience required
- Theatre Camp – ages 7-12 – no experience required
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Tuition: $400 commuter (includes lunch daily); $750 residential (includes dorm stay and 3 meals per day)
Registration deadline: May 31
This camp is designed to support amplifying student voices through the arts utilizing 21st century skills with a culturally responsive lens. Students will rotate through a series of sessions anchored in culturally relevant arts disciplines. 2022 sessions included content creation, music production & sound design, photography by the Butler Department of Art, theatre by the Indianapolis Shakespeare Company, and Ganggang Culture. 2023 offerings will be announced soon! No prior experience is necessary; all levels are welcome. Students will be placed in artist collaborative groups with peers and an artist mentor. They will work together to design and create the final presentation on the last day of camp.
Housing is provided in Butler University’s Irvington House, which is air-conditioned. Dorm check-in is Sunday evening; check-out is after the performance on Friday. Commuter campers check into camp on Monday and attend camp from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM each day. Camper information packets containing additional scheduling information, what to bring, and where to report will be emailed to all participants approximately one to two weeks prior to camp.
Meet the Artistic Director!
Manòn Voice is a native of Indianapolis, Indiana, and is a multi-hyphenate–poet and writer, spoken word artist and filmmaker, actor, hip-hop emcee, educator, and community builder, and currently serves as a Hip-Hop Music Instructor at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana. The spirit of her work finds its niche at the intersection of arts and activism. She has performed on diverse stages across the country in the power of the word and has taught and facilitated writing and poetry workshops widely. Her poetry has appeared in The Flying Island, The Indianapolis Review, The House Life Project: People + Property Series, Sidepiece Magazine, The World We Live(d) In Anthology, The Indianapolis Anthology, Questions for a Resilient Future, and Kinship: A World of Relations. She has been featured in publications such as Indy NUVO, The Indianapolis Recorder, Indianapolis Monthly, The Indianapolis Business Journal, The Indianapolis Star, FAFCollective, Pattern Magazine, Sidepiece Magazine, and more. She has received numerous awards for her 2021 Directorial Debut Film, Where They Drag The Boats.
In 2020, Manòn Voice was a featured Art and Soul artist with the Arts Council of Indianapolis; a recipient of the 2020 Robert D. Beckmann Jr. Emerging Artist Fellowship from the Arts Council of Indianapolis; the 2020 Activist in Residence for the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library Banned Books Week; and 2020 featured poet and speaker for Spirit and Place Festival Public Conversation. Manòn was a selected artist for the 2021 On-Ramp cohort with the Indiana Arts Commission, a 2021 Artist Building Community Fellow with Arts For Learning Indiana, and the 2022 Artistic Curator for WE CANN C.H.A.T. Black Table Talk. She is a 2023 Creative Renewal Fellow with the Arts Council of Indianapolis.
Application Deadline | March 1, 2023**
*2023 Intensive Information Subject to Change
**Registration is now closed, please email BCAS@butler.edu to be added to the waitlist
- Late applications accepted if available space; please inquire
- Pre-professional level only
- Space is limited; we encourage you to apply early
Tuition
- Residential tuition: $4,600
- Commuter tuition: $3,600
Join Butler dance faculty, under the artistic direction of Marek Cholewa, for our pre-professional dance Intensive on the beautiful campus of Butler University. The 4-week Intensive will have a classical ballet focus with additional classes in character, modern, jazz, pas de deux, pilates (NEW!), and repertoire. Please note: students must turn age 13 by the first day of the Intensive in order to be eligible to participate.
Students are encouraged to apply early as space is limited. A photo of the student en pointe in first arabesque (female identifying students) or in first arabesque (male identifying students) is required with the application. A headshot is also required. Video auditions may be requested in addition to a completed application form. Applicants may receive this request via email after submitting the application form. Video auditions should consist of one classical variation (female identifying students en pointe).
Class Information
- Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Pas de Deux, Character
Ballet technique, Pointe, Variations, Pas de Deux and Character will follow the Russian Ballet Academy system (Vaganova system) and students will be learning classical repertoire based on the Mariinsky Theatre tradition. - Modern
Class will incorporate many foundations of modern dance technique from Graham, Horton, Cunningham and Limon. The class will include suspension and release, fall and recovery, and connecting breath with movement. Dancers will explore new ways of moving in combinations, floor work, partnering and various methods of improvisation. - Jazz
Class will explore a wide range of styles and presentation. Dancers will learn to emphasize musicality, body alignment, conditioning, rhythm, as well as innovative choreography. - Pilates
The Pilates Method emphasizes the development of flexibility and core strength through mat and equipment workouts. The core – sometimes called the “power-house” – refers to the muscles surrounding the trunk. Joseph Pilates believed that strengthening these muscles improves posture, prevents injury, and promotes effortless movement. Dancers have gravitated toward Pilates over the last century as its principles and results are harmonious with the dance aesthetic. There are more than 500 exercises in the Pilates Method. Some are known as Fundamentals because they are the basics that must be learned first. All the exercises have names, standards for correct performance, and a given number of repetitions. Perfection of form is emphasized rather than heavy resistance or high repetitions. The goal is to work better, not harder. A class usually includes several standard exercises; others are introduced for variety or to work on a certain fitness goal.
If you have any further questions regarding the Intensive curriculum, please contact artistic director, Marek Cholewa at mcholewa@butler.edu.
More detailed scheduling information, what to bring, and where to report, etc. will be included with the Intensive information packet provided to all participants in early summer. Please review our FAQ page for general details.
Meet the Artistic Director!
Marek Cholewa came from the National Ballet of Panama where he was Assistant Artistic Director/Master Teacher/Répétiteur/ Choreographer. He obtained his master’s degree from The Rimsky-Korsakov Music State Conservatory in St. Petersburg (Russia), as Répétiteur/Choreographer in 1982. Prior to this Mr. Cholewa studied at the National School of Ballet in Poznan, Poland. From 1976-1978, he was a Soloist with the National Ballet of Poland where he performed principal roles from XIX and XX century classical ballet repertory…Read full bio here
Application deadline and accompanying $50 application fee is due March 1.
Late applications accepted if available space; please inquire. A $500 non-refundable deposit is due by March 15th – this will hold your student’s spot in the Intensive. The remaining tuition is due by June 1st. Payments can be made online by selecting “Make a Payment” on the BCAS homepage.
REFUND/WITHDRAWAL POLICY
In the event that a student accepted into the Intensive is no longer able to attend the Intensive, notification of withdrawal from the program should be submitted in writing to BCAS@butler.edu. For students withdrawing prior to June 1, all tuition fees will be refunded (excluding the $50 non-refundable application fee and $500 non-refundable deposit). There will be no refunds issued after June 1. Injury Policy: In the case of injury that prevents the student from beginning participation in the Intensive, a full-tuition credit will be provided for participation in the Intensive the following year (full-tuition as residential or commuter is determined based on which option was selected with the application). Documentation from a physician is required. All credit requests must be submitted via email to BCAS@butler.edu. No refunds or credits will be given after the start of the Intensive.
Frequently Asked Questions (class size, dorm supervision, etc.)
Contact BCAS@butler.edu or 317-940-5500 with any questions regarding registration, housing, etc. For questions regarding Intensive curriculum, please contact artistic director, Marek Cholewa, at mcholewa@butler.edu OR 317-940-9664.
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Tuition: $400 commuter (includes lunch daily); $750 residential (includes dorm stay and 3 meals per day)
Registration deadline: May 31
No audition is required; all levels are welcome, although it is required that participants have at least one year of prior study on upright bass. A short placement audition may be held on the first day of camp. Please be ready to play a one-to-three minute solo or etude. Campers should bring their own instrument for the entire camp. Camp will include: daily stretching and movement; classes on bass technique; master classes; bass chamber ensembles; and private lesson(s) with camp faculty. Final concert will feature all campers.
Featured Faculty
Butler Bass Camp will feature David Murray, professor of bass at Butler University, and the Bad Boyz of Double Bass Quartet—David Murray, Anthony Stoops, Volkan Orhon, and Paul Sharpe; with Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra associate principal bass Robert Goodlett.
Meet the Artistic Director!
David Murray has an international reputation as a solo bassist and teacher. He is currently Professor of Bass and Director of the School of Music at Butler University in Indianapolis and Principal Bassist of the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. He also plays as Principal Bassist with Sinfonia da Camera in Urbana, Illinois, and at the Bear Valley Music Festival in northern California. Before coming to Indianapolis, David was Instructor of Bass at West Texas A&M University and principal with the Amarillo Symphony. He has been a member of the Dallas Chamber Orchestra and also toured twice with the Irish Chamber Orchestra.
Housing is provided in Butler University’s Irvington House, which is air-conditioned. Dorm check-in is Sunday evening; check-out is after the performance on Friday. Commuter campers check into camp on Monday and attend camp from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM each day. Camper information packets containing additional scheduling information, what to bring, and where to report will be emailed to all participants approximately one to two weeks prior to camp.
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Lilly Hall at Butler University
Tuition: $400 commuter (includes lunch daily); $750 residential (includes dorm stay and 3 meals per day)
Registration deadline: May 31
This camp is open to students ages 12–18 (campers who are 18 and have not yet matriculated at a college are eligible to attend camp). No audition is required for admittance, but a placement audition will be required of all participants (details TBA). All levels are welcome, although it is required that participants have at least three years of prior study on their instrument (violin, viola, cello, upright bass, and piano). Campers must provide their own instrument (strings only).
The Chamber Camp features: daily chamber rehearsals, sectionals, and technique class with Butler faculty and music majors, daily masterclasses and coaching sessions, other typical college music classes such as music theory and electives, and a finale performance.
Camper information packets containing additional scheduling information, what to bring, and where to report will be emailed to all participants approximately one week prior to camp.
Meet the Artistic Directors!
DJ Smith has served on the piano faculty of Butler University since 2008. DJ maintains his own private studio of students of all ages and performance levels through the Butler Community Arts School. DJ is also the Artistic Director of the BCAS Piano Camps. He holds a bachelor’s degree in piano performance from Indiana Wesleyan University and a master’s in piano pedagogy from Butler University. He is a nationally certified teacher in music (NCTM). DJ Smith is currently president of the Indiana Music Teachers Association. DJ performs regularly as soloist, collaborates with fellow artists, and frequently lectures at conferences and festivals throughout the region. Recent projects have included a performance of Carnival of the Animals in collaboration with fellow faculty artists, featured as part of the Butler ArtsFest. He has also recently presented a lecture recital on the shorter piano works of Alexander Scriabin for both the IMTA Conference and the Butler University Faculty Artist Series. DJ is the director of music at Irvington United Methodist Church where he plays piano, organ and directs the choir.
Abby Witt currently serves as the Business Operations Manager and a Teaching Fellow for the Butler Community Arts School (BCAS) in Indianapolis, Indiana. Prior to her work at Butler, she was a member of the Lexington Chamber Orchestra in Lexington, Kentucky and a strings teacher in the Friends in Music program of the Central Kentucky Youth Orchestra. As a cellist, she attended the Brevard Summer Music Festival in Brevard, North Carolina in the summers of 2016 and 2017, and attended the Vienna Summer Music Festival in Vienna, Austria in the summer of 2018. She was selected to perform in the collegiate cello master class at the 2016 American String Teachers Association (ASTA) Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and has won several competitions in Kentucky, including the Eastern Kentucky University Symphony’s concerto competition. Abby obtained her Bachelors degree in Cello Performance from Eastern Kentucky University, a Masters degree in Cello Performance from Butler University, and an Associates degree in Business Management from Eastern Gateway Community College. In addition to her managerial duties at BCAS, she maintains a private cello studio and assists with the BCAS Adult Strings Ensembles.
Housing is provided in Butler University’s Irvington House, which is air-conditioned. Dorm check-in is Sunday evening; check-out is after the performance on Friday. Commuter campers check into camp on Monday and attend camp from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM each day. Camper information packets containing additional scheduling information, what to bring, and where to report will be emailed to all participants approximately one to two weeks prior to camp.
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM -12:30 PM
Lilly Hall at Butler University
Tuition: $235
Registration deadline: May 31
The NEW Dance Camp will introduce and develop exploration of different classical dance styles. Students will learn techniques from Ballet, Jazz, Modern, and a Stretch and Strengthen class to enhance proper placement for the techniques offered. No previous experience necessary.
Attire: Athletic wear (comfortable to move in), ballet, and jazz shoes recommended. No street shoes allowed. Hair needs to be secured so it is not distracting to the dancer.
Ballet: The focus will be barre work – center work incorporating the Ballet Terminology.
Jazz: Introducing isolations of the body, enjoy moving to a certain beat and coordination skills across the floor with a fun combination.
Modern: Learning how to move through space from low level to high level with some fun improvisation and working with rhythm.
Stretch and Strengthen: Integrating Yoga and breath work to align and establish placement and knowledge of the body.
Meet the Artistic Director!
Jaclyn Virgin Oomkes is an Indianapolis native. She received her BFA from Butler University in Dance Performance. Immediately following, she became a member of Dance Kaleidoscope – Professional Modern Dance Company in Indianapolis, IN. In 2006 she began to blossom in her teaching/choreography career. She has been teaching classical modern, ballet, and jazz for over 20 years. She has been a guest teacher/ choreographer for various companies such as Dance Kaleidoscope, Motus Dance Theatre, Libada Dance Company and Kenyetta Dance Company. She was on faculty at Jordan Academy of Dance where she taught ballet, modern, and jazz and was Associate Director to the Jordan Dance Ensemble. She has been on faculty for the Butler Ballet Summer Intensive since 2016. Currently, Jaclyn serves as Adjunct Dance Faculty at Butler University and is a certified Yoga/ Pilates instructor for various studios and clubs around Indianapolis. Jaclyn is excited to share her passion and joy of dance to all ages of life.
Afternoon option: Arts Camp
Arts Camp will be offered from 1:30–5:00 PM during the week of Dance Camp. Students can take an adventure through all of the arts, including visual art, dance, music, and theatre. No prior experience is necessary. Please see Arts Camp description for tuition. Students will be supervised by designated camp staff from 12:30–1:30 PM until the start of Arts Camp. Lunch provided.
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Lilly Hall at Butler University
Tuition: $400 commuter (includes lunch daily); $750 residential (includes dorm stay and 3 meals per day)
Registration deadline: May 31
Please join us for Butler University’s Double Reed Camp 2023! Double the reed, double the fun – and that goes doubly for both oboe and bassoon! Led by camp co-directors, Professors Doug Spaniol (bassoon) and Pam Ajango (oboe) and other teaching artists, Double Reed Camp promises to be full of great music, instruction, reeds (double!), and some surprises along the way. Don’t miss this opportunity – we can’t wait to welcome you! At least one year of prior experience on your instrument required.
PLACEMENT AUDITION | Due by June 1st
- 1-2 minutes including your favorite piece and one scale of your choice
- Email placement audition to BCAS@butler.edu
- Video, audio file, or link to YouTube, Google Drive or another sharing platform are all acceptable methods. (Using your phone is just fine!)
Meet the Artistic Directors!
Hailed as a ‘master pedagogue and researcher’ (The Double Reed), Doug Spaniol (he/him), is Professor of Music at Butler University where he teaches bassoon and related classes. At Butler, he has held a variety of other positions including Interim Associate Dean of the Jordan College of Fine Arts, Interim Chair of the School of Music, Assistant Chair of the School of Music, and Vice-Chair of the Faculty Senate. He also serves as Instructor of Bassoon at Interlochen Arts Camp each summer. He has twice been a visiting professor at The Ohio State University and previously served on the faculty at Valdosta State University.
Professor Pamela Ajango is the Instructor of Oboe at Butler University, joining the faculty in 2013. She teaches oboe, chamber music, and instrumental techniques, and has served as interim area coordinator for Woodwinds. Professor Ajango has been a full-time freelance oboist for over 20 years. She is a member of the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra (2nd oboe/English horn), winning her tenured position in 2007. She also frequently serves as acting principal oboe of the ICO, and can be heard in that role on the ICO’s first recording release, Momentum 21. Professor Ajango is a studio musician, recording for music publishers Alfred, FJH, Hal Leonard, and many others. She can often be heard in the pit orchestras of visiting Broadway musicals, in solo and chamber music series, and with professional orchestras in and around Indiana.
Housing is provided in Butler University’s Irvington House, which is air-conditioned. Dorm check-in is Sunday evening; check-out is after the performance on Friday. Commuter campers check into camp on Monday and attend camp from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM each day. Camper information packets containing additional scheduling information, what to bring, and where to report will be emailed to all participants approximately one to two weeks prior to camp.
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–Noon
Lilly Hall at Butler University
Tuition: $235
Registration deadline: May 31
The Butler Community Arts School is excited to offer a camp designed for students ages 7–12 interested in guitar! Butler guitar camp is designed to expose students with little or no prior study to the guitar and its music. Instruction will focus on basic technique with concentration on a short melody or tune daily. Students will be introduced to a variety of guitar styles including blues, folk, rock, classical, and flamenco music. Activities will include group ensemble, games, and more! The week will conclude with a short group performance. Tuition includes a T-shirt and all materials. Students must supply their own instrument. Acoustic guitars are preferred, but electric guitars are welcome (student must provide own amp).
Meet the Artistic Director!
Austin Sandoval has been playing guitar for 11 years, and teaching for 7 years. He graduated from Butler University in 2019 with a BA in Guitar. During his undergraduate studies, Austin helped to found the Butler Guitar Camp and started teaching the Guitar for Young Bulldogs class. In 2021, he became the artistic director of guitar camp, and also started building a guitar program downtown at Christel House Academy. With years of experience and a wide variety of teaching environments, Austin loves showing new students how fun the guitar can be.
*Provisions for after-camp care are not available; all campers should be picked up at noon daily.
Ages 12–18 | Vocal Jazz track for ages 14–18 or rising grades 9-12
*Piano and alto saxophone spots are now being waitlisted. Please email BCAS@butler.edu to be added to the waitlist.
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Tuition: $425 commuter (includes lunch daily); $775 residential (includes dorm stay and 3 meals per day)
Registration deadline: May 31
This weeklong jazz camp provides the opportunity for youth to participate in a fun and intense jazz-learning experience under the direction of professional staff led by Matt Pivec, director of jazz studies at Butler University. The faculty will include local jazz professionals.
Jazz camp is open to students ages 12–18 (campers who are 18 and have not yet matriculated at a college are eligible to attend camp). No audition is required for admission to camp; all levels are welcome. A placement audition and at least one year of prior study on your instrument is required. We welcome all traditional Jazz instruments such as saxophone, trumpet, trombone, upright bass, guitar, piano, percussion, and voice (ages 15–18 or rising grades 9-12 only) as well as more non-traditional instruments such as flute, clarinet, oboe, or violin. If questions, please inquire at BCAS@butler.edu.
Campers should provide their own instrument. Guitarists should provide their own amp. **There are separate requirements specific to the Vocal Jazz Track (ages 15–18), please see details below.
Meet the Artistic Director!
As a performer of jazz and popular music, Matt Pivec has worked with Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, The Temptations, Dave Rivello, Bob Brookmeyer, Peter Erskine, Maria Schneider,Julia Dollison, Melvin Rhyne, the Buselli-Wallarab Jazz Orchestra, The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, the Rochester Philharmonic Pops Orchestra, and the national touring companies of Hairspray, 42nd Street, and The Producers. As a band leader and soloist, Matt has performed at jazz festivals and venues throughout the United States. He has three albums to his credit, Live at Snider Hall, Psalm Songs and the recently released Time and Direction.
Placement Audition | Sunday, July 9th TIME TBD
Students will arrive on Sunday, July 9th to complete a placement audition. Residential students will also check into the dorm. Exact schedule and music TBD.
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Vocal Jazz Track:
The Vocal Jazz Track is open to ages 14–18 or rising grades 9-12 only. All levels are welcome, but we strongly recommend at least one year of prior choral experience and/or vocal lessons. No prior jazz experience required. In order to participate, registrants must provide a letter of recommendation from his/her current private vocal teacher or choral director. Enrollment is limited, please register early.
Vocal jazz, or jazz singing, is an instrumental approach to the voice, where the singer can match the instruments in their stylistic approach to the lyrices, improvised or otherwise. Students will be able to build their skills by singing in a jazz vocal ensemble, performing for each other in masterclasses, and participating in jazz theory, improvisation, and jazz history classes.
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Housing is provided in Butler University’s Irvington House, which is air-conditioned. Dorm check-in is Sunday evening; check-out is after the performance on Friday. Commuter campers check into camp on Monday and attend camp from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM each day. Camper information packets containing additional scheduling information, what to bring, and where to report will be emailed to all participants approximately one to two weeks prior to camp.
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Tuition: $400 commuter (includes lunch daily); $750 residential (includes dorm stay and 3 meals per day)
Registration deadline: May 31
Join us for a week immersed in percussion! No audition is required; all levels are welcome. Students receive instruction on snare, drum set, timpani, mallets, world percussion, steel drums, and concert percussion. A short placement audition may be held on the first day of camp. Whether your student is a total beginner or advanced, we’ve got a spot for them at Percussion Camp.
Meet the Artistic Director!
Jon Crabiel is Percussion Artist-in-Residence at Butler University Jordan College of the Arts in Indianapolis, IN. At Butler University, Jon serves as coordinator of percussion studies, conducts the percussion ensembles and teaches courses in percussion literature, pedagogy and world drumming.In 2017, Jon took a one-year leave of absence from Butler to perform and serve as Acting Assistant Principal Timpani and Percussion with the National Symphony Orchestra for the 2017-18 season in Washington, D.C. Jon is first-call extra percussion with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and has performed with the National Symphony Orchestra, Naples Philharmonic Orchestra, Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, Ft. Wayne Philharmonic, Empire Brass, Ronen Chamber Ensemble, Dance Kaleidoscope and national Broadway tour companies.
Housing is provided in Butler University’s Irvington House, which is air-conditioned. Dorm check-in is Sunday evening; check-out is after the performance on Friday. Commuter campers check into camp on Monday and attend camp from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM each day. Camper information packets containing additional scheduling information, what to bring, and where to report will be emailed to all participants approximately one to two weeks prior to camp.
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Tuition: $400 commuter (includes lunch daily); $750 residential (includes dorm stay and 3 meals per day)
Registration deadline: May 31
Special guest artist: TBA!
No audition is required; all levels are welcome. Students should have at least one year of prior piano study. All students receive daily private lessons and master classes. Other sessions include theory, ensemble, music history, sight playing, and guest speakers and performers. Optional classes may include dance, improvisation, composition, and steel drum ensemble.
Meet the Artistic Director!
DJ Smith has served on the piano faculty of Butler University since 2008. DJ maintains his own private studio of students of all ages and performance levels through the Butler Community Arts School. DJ is also the Artistic Director of the BCAS Piano Camps. He holds a bachelor’s degree in piano performance from Indiana Wesleyan University and a master’s in piano pedagogy from Butler University. He is a nationally certified teacher in music (NCTM). DJ Smith is currently president of the Indiana Music Teachers Association. DJ performs regularly as soloist, collaborates with fellow artists, and frequently lectures at conferences and festivals throughout the region. Recent projects have included a performance of Carnival of the Animals in collaboration with fellow faculty artists, featured as part of the Butler ArtsFest. He has also recently presented a lecture recital on the shorter piano works of Alexander Scriabin for both the IMTA Conference and the Butler University Faculty Artist Series. DJ is the director of music at Irvington United Methodist Church where he plays piano, organ and directs the choir.
Housing is provided in Butler University’s Irvington House, which is air-conditioned. Dorm check-in is Sunday evening; check-out is after the performance on Friday. Commuter campers check into camp on Monday and attend camp from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM each day. Camper information packets containing additional scheduling information, what to bring, and where to report will be emailed to all participants approximately one to two weeks prior to camp.
Monday–Friday, 9:00–12:30 PM
Lilly Hall at Butler University
Tuition: $235
Registration deadline: May 31
Butler piano camp is designed for students with at least one year prior piano study. Students will be divided into smaller groups based on age and repertoire level. Activities will focus on music skills that are appropriate for students in each respective group. Our intent is to maintain interest, stimulate imagination, and provide attainable challenges. Classes may include repertoire, ensemble, music theory, and games.
Students should bring a favorite solo piece to share (memory optional). Ensemble pieces will be provided the first day of camp. Tuition includes a T-shirt and all materials.
Tentative Schedule
- Monday, 8:30 AM: Camp check-in
- Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–12:30 PM: Campers follow daily camp schedule*
- Friday, noon: Informal camper concert at Lilly Hall
*Provisions for after-camp care are not available; all campers should be picked up at 12:30 PM daily (unless camper is enrolled in afternoon Arts Camp).
Meet the Artistic Director!
DJ Smith has served on the piano faculty of Butler University since 2008. DJ maintains his own private studio of students of all ages and performance levels through the Butler Community Arts School. DJ is also the Artistic Director of the BCAS Piano Camps. He holds a bachelor’s degree in piano performance from Indiana Wesleyan University and a master’s in piano pedagogy from Butler University. He is a nationally certified teacher in music (NCTM). DJ Smith is currently president of the Indiana Music Teachers Association. DJ performs regularly as soloist, collaborates with fellow artists, and frequently lectures at conferences and festivals throughout the region. Recent projects have included a performance of Carnival of the Animals in collaboration with fellow faculty artists, featured as part of the Butler ArtsFest. He has also recently presented a lecture recital on the shorter piano works of Alexander Scriabin for both the IMTA Conference and the Butler University Faculty Artist Series. DJ is the director of music at Irvington United Methodist Church where he plays piano, organ and directs the choir.
Afternoon option: Arts Camp
Arts Camp will be offered from 1:30–5:00 PM during the week of Piano Camp. Students can take an adventure through all of the arts, including visual art, dance, music, and theatre. No prior experience is necessary. Please see Arts Camp description for tuition. Students will be supervised by designated camp staff from 12:30–1:30 PM until the start of Arts Camp. Lunch provided.
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Registration deadline: May 31
The best way to start your Summer! Join us for a week of music making and exploration. This camp is geared towards strings students (violin, viola, cello, bass) who are not yet proficient in note reading in the first position, but have had an introduction, and who are still learning basic rhythms/counting. Strings Bootcamp will ensure that your child has the skills to participate at the level of the Butler Strings Camp, while exploring all new music opportunities!
Meet the Artistic Director!
Shannon M. Crow is a graduate of Butler University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. Ms. Crow has been teaching private violin and viola lessons for over 20 years, and has extensive experience teaching students from 4 years to 80 years of age. Currently she conducts Orchestra B and the Parent Orchestra of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, as well as teaches private lessons. At the Butler Community Arts School, Shannon founded and directs the Adult Strings Ensembles, the Butler Children’s Orchestra, Butler Youth Orchestra and Butler Strings Camp, as well as teaches private violin and viola lessons. When not teaching private lessons, Ms. Crow has partnered with the VA in research and in supporting our veterans through music; and is an avid performer in local orchestras and for private events.
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–12:30 PM
Lilly Hall at Butler University
Registration deadline: May 31
Butler Strings Camp is designed for students with at least one year of prior strings study (violin, viola, cello, upright bass). Students must be able to proficiently read notes on all four strings in the first position. Our intent is to maintain interest, stimulate imagination, and provide attainable challenges. Classes include orchestra and sectionals, along with music theory and games.
If your student is not yet proficient in note reading in the first position, but has had an introduction, and is still learning basic rhythms/counting, we recommend Strings Bootcamp! Join us for Strings Bootcamp in June (see section above) and then join us for Strings Camp in July.
Students should bring a favorite solo piece to share (memory optional). Ensemble pieces will be provided the first day of camp. Tuition includes a T-shirt and all materials. Campers should provide their own instrument.
*Provisions for after-camp care are not available; all campers should be picked up at 12:30 PM daily (unless camper is enrolled in afternoon Arts Camp)
Meet the Artistic Director!
Shannon M. Crow is a graduate of Butler University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. Ms. Crow has been teaching private violin and viola lessons for over 20 years, and has extensive experience teaching students from 4 years to 80 years of age. Currently she conducts Orchestra B and the Parent Orchestra of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, as well as teaches private lessons. At the Butler Community Arts School, Shannon founded and directs the Adult Strings Ensembles, the Butler Children’s Orchestra, Butler Youth Orchestra and Butler Strings Camp, as well as teaches private violin and viola lessons. When not teaching private lessons, Ms. Crow has partnered with the VA in research and in supporting our veterans through music; and is an avid performer in local orchestras and for private events.
Afternoon option: Arts Camp
Arts Camp from 1:30–5:00 PM during the week of Strings Camp. Students can take an adventure through all of the arts, including visual art, dance, music, and theatre. No prior experience within these art forms is necessary. Please see Arts Camp description for tuition. Students will be supervised by designated camp staff from 12:30–1:30 PM. Lunch provided.
Monday–Friday, 9:00-5:00
Lilly Hall at Butler University
Tuition: $400 commuter (includes lunch daily); $750 residential (includes dorm stay and 3 meals per day)
Registration deadline: May 31
Meet the Artistic Director!
Liber Cuervos is a highly regarded music educator, conductor, and violinist deeply committed to use orchestral music as a powerful tool for promoting diversity, equity, excellence, and social transformation, especially among underserved communities. He has a distinguished career as a former member of the Venezuela Symphony Orchestra, having toured extensively across Mexico, Argentina, Cuba, France, Russia, Greece, and Italy. Moreover, he has been honored to serve as the conductor of Venezuela’s Emil Friedman Youth Orchestra, in addition to frequently leading youth and professional orchestras such as the Carabobo Symphonic Orchestra, Venezuela Symphony Orchestra, and Bolivar Youth Symphony. Beyond his exceptional musical accomplishments, Liber Cuervos has been a skilled Art Administrator for the past decade, working with various nonprofit organizations dedicated to social transformation through music in Caracas, Venezuela, and later in Miami, Florida. His extensive experience in this regard has included collaborating with music nonprofits such as Homestead Music Project, American Children’s Orchestras for Peace, and Miami Music Project, where he serves as Program Director of the project and Conductor of the Sinfonia Orchestra. Since 2019, he has been a valued faculty member of the esteemed Interlochen Arts Camp, where he conducts the Intermediate Concert Orchestra.
No audition is required for admittance; all levels are welcome, although it is required that participants have at least one year of prior study on their instrument (violin, viola, cello, upright bass). Campers must provide their own instrument. 12 and 13 year old students should consider if they are ready for an immersive camp experience.
The String Scholars camp features: daily orchestra rehearsals, finale concert, daily sectionals and technique class with Butler faculty and music majors; other typical college music classes such as music theory and electives. Additional classes may include drumming, dance, keyboard, etc.
Placement Audition | Due by June 1
Students must submit a 1-2 minute video or audio recording of themselves playing a favorite song and/or scales. Send to BCAS@butler.edu.
Housing is provided in Butler University’s Irvington House, which is air-conditioned. Dorm check-in is Sunday evening; check-out is after the performance on Friday. Commuter campers check into camp on Monday and attend camp from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM each day. Camper information packets containing additional scheduling information, what to bring, and where to report will be emailed to all participants approximately one to two weeks prior to camp.
