music.NEXT is a summer seminar designed to support emerging classical trumpet players as they prepare for the next stage of their musical journey.
Focused on mentorship, performance, and community, the program provides a space for serious young musicians to refine their craft, connect with inspiring faculty, and explore their artistic identity in a collaborative, human-centered environment.
Are you serious about your craft and ready to explore what comes next? Music.NEXT is designed for advanced high school-aged students looking to go into music education or performance and want to connect with top teachers and programs, goal-oriented undergraduate students who wish to participate in festivals, auditions, and competitions, and for graduate musicians who seek employment at colleges and orchestras or who wish to forge their own path, the program offers an immersive mix of high-level instruction, artistic collaboration, and personal connection.
Program Structure
music. NEXT is thoughtfully designed to take place over two phases: a light virtual phase (music.prep), and an in-person seminar (music.exe).
music.prep
Before arriving in person, participants engage in brief virtual sessions to connect with faculty, refine goals, and plan their experience. This phase includes one-on-one coaching, a group meeting, and check-ins with the program director — all designed to help students arrive confident, organized, and ready to work.
music.exe
Our journey continues with the group meeting in the heart of one of the most vibrant musical cities in the world: Boston, Massachusetts. Then, as we move North to the scenic campus of the University of Maine in Orono, this 4-day seminar features daily coachings, masterclasses, rehearsals, and performance showcases. The schedule balances intensive musical work with time for social connection, reflection, and local excursions. Students live in campus housing, rehearse with professional collaborators, and participate in an intimate, focused musical community.
Activities
- One-on-one coachings with dynamic faculty
- Masterclasses and open forum performances
- Rehearsals with a professional pianist or collaborator
- Group discussions on musical identity, career paths, and graduate study
- Q&A sessions with faculty and guest artists
- Participant showcase performances
- Faculty concert featuring a guest ensemble
- Social activities: evening hangs, campfires, and shared meals
- Excursions such as: exploring Boston’s Freedom Trail or local restaurants, visiting Acadia National Park or nearby beaches, Pat’s Pizza in downtown Orono or Old Town
Location
Boston
A vibrant, historic city with a deep musical culture, Boston is where music.NEXT begins. Participants will meet for a shared meal and opening session, with time to explore landmarks like the Freedom Trail or enjoy a stop at a favorite music shop. It’s the perfect launch point — energetic, artistic, and full of character.
Orono/Waterville
Nestled in the woods of central Maine, Orono/Waterville offers a peaceful, scenic setting ideal for focused musical work and community connection. Home to the University of Maine/Colby College, it combines access to excellent facilities with the charm of the outdoors — including nearby trails, rivers, and even Acadia National Park just a drive away.
