Summer is often a great time to try to relax, refocus, and do the things we love to do. For nearly 100 years young people from around the world have been doing just that at Interlochen Arts Camp.
Founded in 1928 by Dr. Joseph Maddy, this artists' haven nestled between the piney shores of Duck Lake and Green Lake provides thousands of young people with a home where they can grow closer together as artists and individuals each summer. From 2013 to 2020, I got to be part of the magic, experiencing the transformative power of this place as a camp staff member.
This coming Sunday, August 4th, Interlochen Arts Camp (IAC) celebrates the end of its 97th camp season with its annual performance of Franz Liszt’s Les Preludes. Not only does this performance showcase the talented musicians who attend IAC, featuring all three high school ensembles, but it also highlights collaboration across the arts with choreographed dancing throughout the outdoor venue known affectionately as “The Bowl.”
Joann Falletta, the Music Director of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, is making history this year as the first woman to conduct this annual event. In addition to playing Liszt’s Les Preludes, campers will also perform Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio Espagnol and Carlos Simon’s Tales: A Folklore Symphony.
Experience the magic of Interlochen from afar in two ways this coming weekend. First, you can listen to a live broadcast of the performance on Interlochen Public Radio through their streaming service. IPR’s host Nancy Deneen gives context to the music as you listen and enjoy the program. For a more immersive experience, you can also watch a live video stream of the performance.
I know I’ll be watching, and I hope you’ll join me to enjoy this special event.
