<p>I agree with glassharmonica on the big fish/small pond dilemma/problem.</p>
<p>I agree, too - that the musician’s peers will be equally as important to their development as their teachers.</p>
<p>DD always said that she wanted to be surrounded by the best talent, not just in her instrument, but in the orchestra as a whole, so while there may be some schools that had one great studio, the rest of the ensemble might not be up to that level. I would never have thought of that, so I am glad she did.</p>
<p>Congratulations on your son being accepted to Interlochen camp and receiving merit aid. While it is a disappointment to not receive the Emerson Scholarship, remember that the number of students receiving it is extremely limited. Receiving merit aid is certainly not the norm; most campers do not receive aid. </p>
<p>We are huge fans of Interlochen camp. My younger daughter attended twice; once as a full pay camper and then as an Emerson Scholar. My older daughter has worked at the camp for several years and the younger one returns this year as a teaching assistant. The level of teaching and musicianship at Interlochen is amazing. The camp fosters an environment that encourages growth as a musician and a person. Campers are exposed to top talented within their specialty, their field and the greater arts community. It was at Interlochen that my daughter really began to understand where she fit in as a musician and artist. There are certainly camps they may offer a higher level of musicianship or a more comfortable living arrangements or more affordability, but Interlochen offers the most fertile environment for growth as an artist. As I heard one parent say, “The stones sing at Interlochen”.</p>
<p>We were disappointed when my son was accepted to Interlochen and not given enough financial aid to attend. We have found other outstanding summer programs that are much more affordable.</p>
<p>MusicalMother, Sent you a private email with my own Interlochen question. Thanks. </p>
<p>I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about Interlochen camp, also. My son received a partial scholarship like your son. It was not enough to allow him to go so we waited a year and reapplied, and he won the Emerson the following year. His summer at Interlochen was magical. What made the biggest impression on him was the quality of the orchestra–and all the music-obsessed friends he met there. </p>