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Program Descriptions
New Horizons Summer Strings Retreat

New Horizons Summer Strings Retreat

August 22 - 24, 2025

Join us for a fun and rewarding weekend at the New Horizons Summer String Retreat, specially designed for adult learners of violin, viola, cello, and upright bass! Participate in string orchestra, chamber music, and masterclasses, and take part in workshops that help you grow as a musician. In addition to music, enjoy activities like hiking and relaxing evenings around the bonfire. Connect with fellow musicians, share stories, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Waycross Conference Center and Camp. Whether you're learning new skills or just enjoying some time in nature, this retreat offers a great mix of music, relaxation, and community. We hope to see you this summer!

Academy faculty

Summer 2025 faculty coming soon.

Sample Schedule

3:30 - 5:00 PM - Check-in

5:00 - 6:30 PM - Welcome rehearsal

6:30 PM - Dinner

Sunset - Bonfire

8 AM - Breakfast

8:45 - 10:15 AM - Full orchestra rehearsal

10:20 - 11:05 AM - Basics of Conducting with Audrey Williams

12 PM - Lunch

1 - 1:45 PM - Shared rhythm experience with Julian Douglas*

2:00 PM - 2:45 PM - Sectionals

3:00 - 4:00 PM - Yoga of the Voice with Stephanie Heidemann*
(bring yoga mat, blanket)

4:00pm - Break! Pool is open!

6:00PM - Dinner

Sunset - Bonfire

8AM - Breakfast

9:30 - 11 AM - Chamber Rehearsals

11 AM - Chamber Masterclass

12PM - Lunch

1 - 1:50 PM - Music Theory with Sarah Strickland*

2 - 3PM - Full Orchestra Rehearsal

3:15 PM - Final Performance (Recorded)

Classes marked * are optional, but attendance is encouraged!

Proficiency level

Interested applicants should have the following instrument proficiency:

Violin - G Major scale (2-octaves; starting from open G string)
Viola - C Major scale (2 octaves; starting from open C string)
Cello - C Major scale (2 octave; starting from open C string)
Bass - G Major scale (2 octaves; starting from open E string, finger 2)

Fees and deadlines

2025 Fees

Early bird tuition (Must register before July 11): $180
Standard tuition: $200
- $100 non-refundable enrollment deposit due at registration (credited towards tuition)

Optional: Housing and Meals

Single room (includes 3 meals/day): $350
Shared room (includes 3 meals/day): $280
Commuter meal plan (1 meal/day): $60

Deadlines

Registration: August 1
Payment: August 14

How to apply

Eligibility: An immersive strings experience for intermediate to advanced adult students; must meet the criteria outlined in Proficiency level.
Application process: To apply, please complete the online registration form. Late applications accepted pending available space.
Payment: Accepting payment via credit card or check. Questions regarding payment should go to IU Conferences at iuconfs@iu.edu.
Cancellation Policy: Click here for our most up to date cancellation policy.

Registration for Summer 2025 coming soon

Once you have completed the previous steps, please submit the Participant Agreement Form

New Horizons Summer Strings Retreat