Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp is a nonprofit residential summer arts program founded in 1966, set on a 1,600-acre campus in Michigan's Manistee National Forest in Twin Lake, MI. Students in grades 5–12 choose a primary arts discipline and spend 12 days in intensive instruction, ensemble work, and performance.
Disciplines:
- Instrumental: Band, Orchestra, Jazz Band, Piano, Harp
- Vocal: Choir
- Performing arts: Theater, Dance
- Visual: Visual Art
- Literary: Creative Writing
Students enroll in one primary discipline and may add an optional minor for an additional fee.
Camp structure:
| Program | Grades | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Camp Bernstein | 5–8 | Junior program limited to Band and Orchestra; exact range varies by session |
| Central Camp | 7–12 | All disciplines; exact range varies by session; 4 sessions per summer |
There are four 12-day sessions each summer, running late June through mid-August. Each session ends with a public performance.
International Exchange Program:
Since 1970, Blue Lake's International Exchange Program has hosted visiting European ensembles and sent student ambassadors on cultural exchange tours across Europe.
Financial assistance:
Blue Lake offers several forms of tuition assistance. Available awards include:
- Fritz Stansell Scholarship: Full tuition (excluding $295 deposit) for students in any discipline; deadline March 28
- Advanced Program Scholarships: For grades 9–12; video audition preferred deadline February 28 (second round March 28)
- Honors Scholarships: For All-State ensemble members
- Merit and need-based aid: Rolling review
Contact scholarships@bluelake.org to apply.