The magical worlds of music theater and opera combine music, theater, dance, poetry, and visual spectacle. Join us as we train young musicians to captivate the sensibilities of the audience as they learn to create beautiful music!
Participants in the PIMF Music Theatre & Opera Program will perform a variety of selections from beloved vocal masterpieces (see below), which include music appropriate for every age and skill level. Students in this program receive hands-on training to discover the many levels of preparation and production required to create compelling music and opera theatre performances.
Daily instruction will focus on the essentials of vocal health and technique, how to present a character and convey emotions through stagecraft and acting skills, the importance of music theory and how it affects the dramatic impact of the performance, set construction, costumes and makeup, and much more. Group instruction (as well as optional private voice lessons) will encourage the singer to love the performance experience by finding his or her true voice. A variety of repertoire will be selected to match the abilities of young singers. All campers will participate in either group or solo performances in the Grand Finale Showcase.
This Program Includes:
Advanced singers may be awarded opportunities to perform in student recitals. The festival concludes with a Grand Finale concert, allowing all campers to showcase their prepared scenes.
Two-Week Program: June 20 – July 2, 2020
All participants will meet each day on the Main Stage for group rehearsals. Small group sessions will break-off during this time to allow campers to receive more personalized guidance. These sessions will focus on vocal health and singing approaches, music theory and aural development, acting and movement methods for the stage, costuming and make-up techniques, as well as set design and creation.
Students in all PIMF summer music programs have three attendance options:
Please note that the Extended Day Camp fee includes both lunch and dinner. The Day Camp fee includes lunch only.
Are you interested in a major role? If so, upload your 3-5 minute audition video here. Audition uploads must include five to ten minutes of solo repertoire. Vocalists should perform their most current, well-prepared pieces. We recommend (but do not require) that uploads include two contrasting pieces. Recordings may be accompanied or unaccompanied.*
As of April 23rd, there are still major role openings for all voices!
*Please note that if you are not interested in a major role, simply register online today. Onsite auditions will take place for students interested in minor roles.
Two-Week Resident Fee: $3050
Two-Week Commuter Fee (8:45 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.): $2400
Two-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.
Are all PIMF summer programs held in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania?
Although some of our year-round programming is facilitated on other sites, ALL orchestra camp programs are held on the estate-like grounds of Bryn Mawr College, (named by Travel and Leisure Magazine as one of the 30 most beautiful college campuses in the U.S.).
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.
Is it necessary to submit audition materials for Music Theatre & Opera Camp prior to registering?
No. Although many of our summer music camp programs are by-audition-only, the PIMF Music Theatre & Opera Camp Program includes up to five orchestra levels. Consequently, it is possible to accept students of varying ages and skill levels. Auditions for Music Theatre & Opera Camp are for placement purposes only.
When is the audition deadline?
Audition materials are due on or before April 30. This applies to all PIMF summer music camp participants.
Is there any required audition repertoire for the Music Theatre & Opera Camp?
Visit our auditions page for more info.
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 Auditions Director at ben.patterson@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. Once the program is filled to capacity, students are placed on a waiting list.
Are there any final concerts that friends and family can attend?
The Grand Finale recital for the Music Theatre & Opera Program is held on the last day of the 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