LSM 2024
Full Session: June 30-July 28 Half Session*: June 30-July 14
*Half Session waitlist only for 2024
Grades 8-12
Valparaiso University, IN
Lutheran Summer Music is a faith-based residential music academy for high schoolers (students who have completed grades 8-12). Students come together from all over the country to immerse themselves in joyful music-making and build a supportive and welcoming community, living together on a Lutheran college campus.
During the day, students receive advanced musical instruction through large ensembles, chamber music, private lessons with collegiate-level faculty, and elective classes. In the evenings, students attend recitals and Evening Prayer services based in Lutheran liturgy, and social events with friends.
Areas of Study
LSM Overview Video
What is the LSM experience? Hear from past faculty and students in the video below.
LSM Master Schedule
What is an LSM schedule like? See an example schedule from a past year below.
Music
Take two private lessons each week with a nationally renowned LSM Faculty Member on your instrument or voice.
Private Lessons
Rehearse each day with your peers in Orchestra, Band, or Choir and put on performances for family and friends at the end of LSM.
Large Ensembles
Chamber Music
Instrumental students play in small ensembles of two or more students to gain chamber music skills.
Students learn music theory, sightreading, history and performance practice to enhance their understanding of music.
Musicianship Classes
Students have many performance opportunities with their large ensemble, chamber ensemble, and studio recitals.
Concerts and Recitals
Customize the LSM experience through a variety of optional electives. Learn new musical skills and dive into your unique interests!
Electives
Community
LSM students build an intentional community where all feel supported, allowing a deeper level of musical and personal growth.
Students are engaged through many different social experiences:
Dorm Life: Students live with their peers in small groups led by a caring residence counselor.
Recreation Activities: A daily break from the rigorous musical schedule, including sports, crafts, board games, and more.
Social Events: All students come together weekly to enjoy events such as Movie Night, and our Talent Show and Dance.
Off-Campus Trip: Past destinations include national parks, beach days, mini-golf or amusement parks.
Leadership Opportunities: Join the Student Council to represent your peers and help choose and plan activities at LSM.
Faith
Worship is central to daily life at LSM. Our chaplain provides spiritual leadership and creates a supportive community where faith - regardless of religious background - can be explored and the Lutheran church's tradition of musical excellence is celebrated. The three primary worship events at LSM are:
Morning Prayer: The Morning Prayer service involves a hymn, a reading, a short devotion and singing Luther’s Morning Prayer as a community.
Evening Prayer: This half-hour service opens with a musical offering and involves a sung liturgy, a reading, and a musical offering, usually given by the Chapel Choir, the Handbell Choir, or other soloists or ensembles.
Sunday Eucharist: The service is filled with music and follows a traditional Lutheran liturgy. Each summer, a Bach Cantata is performed during Sunday worship by students and faculty.