The Solo Performance Preparation Program (SPPP) is designed for advanced student musicians 13-19 years of age preparing for upcoming solo performances and competitions. The SPP Program includes: three private lessons weekly (see full faculty listing here), daily 30-minute workout sessions with assigned faculty accompanist, daily hour-long solo performance classes, daily chamber music rehearsals, and four hours of required daily private practice. Combined with PIMF’s numerous other program offerings (including master classes, solo performances, and competitions), the SPP Program schedule is the most intense of all our summer music program schedules.
Note: Alumni may bypass the audition process if attending the same program (i.e. if a student attended the Solo Performance program in 2024, they may register without auditioning for the 2025 Solo Performance program).
Solo Performance Hours, Daily Solo Performance Class, and a Concerto Competition
Students in the Solo Performance Preparation Program may attend as either: Resident Campers (Residing on campus throughout the duration of the festival), Extended Day Campers (8:45 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.), or Day Campers (8:45 a.m. – 5:15 p.m.). Please note that the PIMF “Extended Day Camp” fee (see registration form) includes both lunch and dinner. The PIMF “Day Camp” fee includes lunch only.
8:45 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.: | Full Festival Meeting |
9:45 a.m. -12:00 p.m.: | Private Practice, Private Lessons, Accompanist Workouts |
12:00 p.m.: | Lunch |
12:50 – 1:50 p.m.: | Solo Performance Preparation Program Class |
2:00 p.m.- 3:00 p.m.: | Private Practice |
3:15 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.: | Chamber Music Program |
5:30 p.m.: | Dinner (Day Campers Dismissed) |
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.: | Evening Student Concerts and Faculty Recitals featuring members of The Philadelphia Orchestra, Master Classes, Competitions, Off-Campus trips to Philadelphia Orchestra concert(s) and Movie Night, and more! |
Entrance into the Solo Performance Preparation Program is by audition only. It is our most competitive program, and fills to capacity each session. We strongly encourage you to audition early!
Audition Requirements:
(Please note that students may choose to prepare other scales, as these templates are created to simply show a suggested format.)
Flute | Oboe | Clarinet | Bassoon | Horn | Trumpet | Trombone | Tuba | Violin | Viola | Cello | Double Bass
Auditions will determine:
Two-Week Resident Fee: $4950
One-Week Resident Fee: $2850
Two-Week Commuter Fee (8:45 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.): $4300
One-Week Commuter Fee (8:45 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.): $2500
Two-Week Extended-Day Commuter Fee (8:45 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.): $4550
One-Week Extended-Day Commuter Fee (8:45 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.): $2650
Please note that the Extended-Day commuter fee includes both lunch and dinner. The “8:45 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.” commuter fee includes lunch only.
Do you provide transportation options to/from the PIMF summer programs?
Yes, we do! Please phone our office for more details or to schedule a pickup.
When is the audition deadline?
Acceptance is on a rolling basis and spaces are limited. Early registration is highly recommended, as we are filled to capacity, certain instruments will no longer be accepted and applicants will be put on a waiting list.
How will I know if the Solo Performance Program is full?
Once the SPPP program is filled to capacity, a note will be added to the SPPP program page on our website. If you do not see “Filled to Capacity” at the top of the program page, we are still accepting auditions.
Is there any required audition repertoire for the Solo Camp?
There is no specific required audition repertoire. Please go to the “Audition Information” tab for additional information.
How do I submit my audition materials?
PIMF uses the online portal Acceptd for all auditions. For detailed, easy-to-follow instructions, click here and choose “How to Upload Your Audition File” at the bottom of the page.
What if I need technical help with submitting my online audition materials?
Please feel free to contact our Operations Director at jacob.heil@pimf.org, or contact Acceptd support directly.
What is the last date I can register for the PIMF summer music programs?
Early registration is highly recommended as enrollment is limited to 22 students. Once the program is filled to capacity, students are placed on a waiting list.
Do you provide rentals if my airline cannot accommodate my instrument?
Yes. Many musicians (international students in particular) request information regarding cello and bass rentals. Please phone our Administrative Offices at: 856-875-6816 and we would be happy to assist you in securing a rental instrument.
Are there any final concerts that friends and family can attend?
The Grand Finale concert for the Solo Performance Preparation Program is held on the last day of each session.
"I have been to PIMF for two years now and it’s an incredible place to be. I’m always so inspired even months after I’ve attended and I continue to enjoy uncovering the new things that I can learn there. Can’t wait for next year!”
- Megan F., 2018
"Awesome - my daughter’s playing improved with the high level of music instruction. She also met quite a few kid musicians from all over the world that she’s been keeping contact with. I really loved the focus on practicing. She will be returning next year!”
- James M., 2018
"Our son loves PIMF and improves his level of play and repertoire for percussion. He loves the experience and time with friends in the dorms. He is going into his fourth summer in 2019. Thank you PIMF!”
- Jeff D., 2018
"The 2019 PIMF season will be my 3rd year at this camp and I absolutely love it!! Working with the members of the Philadelphia Orchestra has made me learn and grow so much and being able to work with other musicians my age is so much fun! I am so excited for this upcoming year and many years of PIMF!!!!”
- Kate F., 2018
“Our children love this camp so much. This is their fourth season, and I'm sure we will be back next year. What they learned this year was just amazing. The atmosphere is not only professional, it's fun! They come home inspired by all they see and set new goals for their playing. The staff are always so courteous and helpful. The Philadelphia Orchestra teachers are always the best. Thank you for all your hard work.”
- Jean F., 2019