<p>My kid and I recently reviewed these two summer music programs and I'd like to hear from you re your experiences (good or bad) in one or both from application to acceptance or decline, and why?</p>
<p>I am happy to answer specific questions about Interlochen. Yours, however, is so broad that I am not sure how to respond. My son will be attending Interlochen for the fourth time this summer. Obviously, we are very happy with the program.</p>
<p>My son attended EMF for two summers and studied with one of the applied faculty members from there in grad school for two years (while getting his masters). We (and he) thought the program was outstanding.</p>
<p>My son went to Interlochen when he was junior high age and EMS in high school. Enjoyed both very much. After two summers he had had enough of the factory aspects of Interlochen - the tremendous size, uniforms, zillions of rules - and was ready for a smaller, more intimate program with more independence and practice time. Obviously the high school students at Interlochen may be treated much the same way the kids are at EMS, but he was ready for a change. </p>
<p>There’s definitely much more to do in the evenings at Interlochen, from student concerts to professional ones, plays, musicals, etc. But he really liked being on a college campus for EMS, much preferred their dorms and cafeteria and the interaction with college students. Had great teachers and made good friends at both. Now that he’s in college he runs into kids he knew from both places quite a bit. Small world.</p>
<p>So yes - apples and oranges.</p>
<p>That person with the unique perspective on both programs. Thanks, my kid has only experience with dorm-type programs so next year we’ll keep this difference in mind. Just curiious: Your S a music major?</p>
<p>See my most recent post.</p>
<p>Stepup, my son is doing a double major in philosophy and music. </p>
<p>He’s a pianist. If your kid has any interest in playing in an orchestra, Interlochen will be a much better place. Lots of strong players (therefore somewhat competitive atmosphere), great guest conductors, etc. EMS doesn’t come close to providing that kind of orchestral experience. Not an issue for my son.</p>
<p>Interlochen also does well by singers, with good solo instruction and plenty of choral, opera and musical theatre opportunities. EMS has no vocal program.</p>
<p>Both places are visitor-friendly. Interlochen especially is a great vacation destination should you want to pop in and check it out some time this summer. And if you’re in NC to see EMS, you might want to look at Brevard as well.</p>