Happenings

Film & New Media students attend SXSW Film & TV Festival for world premiere of ‘Jedo’s Dead’ (Stories 626042)

melissa.birdsey — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 16:19:22 +0000

Film & New Media students attend SXSW Film & TV Festival for world premiere of ‘Jedo’s Dead’ (Stories 626042) melissa.birdsey Mon, 04/29/2024 - 12:19 Film & New Media students attend SXSW Film & TV Festival for world premiere of ‘Jedo’s Dead’Eight young filmmakers visited the prestigious festival to see new films, mingle with industry professionals, and celebrate the success of the Interlochen Cinema Collective’s inaugural project.

Film & New Media students Sarah Wang (left), Ellen Denzin (center) and Meredith Farnsley (right) at SXSW.

April 29, 2024

In March, eight Interlochen Arts Academy Film & New Media students traveled to Austin, Texas for the 2024 SXSW Film & TV Festival.

The trip was catalyzed by the success of the Interlochen Cinema Collective’s inaugural film, “Jedo’s Dead,” which made its world premiere as part of the festival’s Texas Shorts program. All eight students who attended SXSW served as production assistants for the film.

“When we started the Cinema Collective meetings, the ‘win’ was just that faculty and alumni could workshop screenplays and pitch new story ideas with one another,” said Interlochen Center for the Arts Director of Film & New Media Michael Mittelstaedt. “More amazing was being able to develop production—let alone that the film we produced was accepted to SXSW.”

Celebrating “Jedo’s Dead”

Attendees gather outside the Rollins Studio Theatre at the Long Center before the Texas Shorts Program on Friday, March 8.

The Interlochen cohort kicked off their SXSW experience by attending the world premiere of “Jedo’s Dead” at the Rollins Studio Theatre at the Long Center on Friday, March 8.

“It was a full house—sold out,” Mittelstaedt said. “We were one of the very few narrative projects in our category, so it was really cool to see our work in the midst of a number of documentaries, experimental shorts, and a few other narratives.”

For Mittelstaedt and the young filmmakers, the screening was an opportunity to see “Jedo’s Dead” through fresh eyes.

“We had a live audience of people who have no connection to Interlochen, so they were giving us authentic responses to the dramatic moments,” Mittelstaedt said. “There were also some unexpected responses. There were times when there were some laughs, which I think is because the themes inside of that film are so heavy that in the moments that were lighter, there was some relief.”

Following the premiere, the students had the chance to stand and be acknowledged for their contributions to the film.

“Our students were an unusual demographic at the festival, because there were really no other films in which high school students participated as crew members,” Mittelstaedt said. “They got to be recognized for that, which was a beautiful thing.”

A ‘candy store’ for filmmakers

Beyond the premiere, the Academy students were able to explore a wide selection of the festival’s programming.

“It was like a candy store,” Mittelstaedt said. “Because of the passes our students had, they could go to panels and see premieres, and they really did it up well. A good portion of them were seeing two world premieres each night. They also had the chance to sit in the old Paramount Theatre—which seats like 1,200 people—and to have that feeling of community that we don’t have as often anymore when we go to the movies.”

In addition to seeing new films, students were also able to gain perspectives from working television and film professionals.

“We went to a couple of panels together, including one with some of the showrunners for Reservation Dogs and a really interesting conversation with NBC Universal’s comedy vice presidents,” Mittelstaedt said. “Our students got to ask questions of people they admire. It was just phenomenal.”

Some students, such as senior Lindsey Levine, were even able to meet one-on-one with industry leaders.

“Lindsey ended up getting into a mentor session as a standby, and had—and I don’t think this is an exaggeration—a good 15 to 20 minutes with one of the vice presidents of Universal Comedy,” Mittelstaedt said. “Whether or not that leads to something tangible, just having that conversation and that access to someone to talk about her ideas, her pilots, and the shows she likes is remarkable.”

An unexpected success

Michael Mittelstaedt (left) and “Jedo’s Dead” director/writer Sara Nimeh (right) attend the second screening of the Texas Short Program on March 11.

Mittelstaedt and the Arts Academy students closed their time at the festival by attending the second screening of “Jedo’s Dead” on Monday, March 11—this time joined by several of the film’s professional collaborators, including director of photography Shane Bagwell (IAA 15-17), gaffer Zach Clark; and assistant director Ariel Ortiz.

Although the group departed on Tuesday, the excitement of SXSW wasn’t quite over.

“On Wednesday morning, our director, Sara [Nimeh] (IAC 00-06, IAA 06-08), wrote to me and said, ‘We’re thinking of going back up because it’s awards night. What do you think?’” Mittelstaedt recalled. “I said, ‘It can’t hurt. Who knows what will happen, and it will be nice to be in that space to support the other filmmakers.’ That night, I’m sitting on my couch at home and someone sends me a live feed of Sara up on stage at the Paramount Theater accepting the jury award for our short.”

Mittelstaedt describes the film’s remarkable success as “a series of unexpected events.”

“We made a really great short film, but at no point did we expect this out of ‘Jedo’s Dead’,” Mittelstaedt said. “I imagined the film going to regional film festivals and getting some exposure—but I never expected it to premiere and win an award at one of the largest and most notable film festivals in the U.S.”

“Jedo’s Dead” has since appeared at other film festivals—including the Atlanta Film Festival, the Maryland Film Festival, and the Minnesota Film Festival (where it won Best Narrative Short), and the Palm Springs International Shortfest (where it was selected as Best U.S. Short Special Mention), among others. The film is scheduled to screen at the Indy Shorts International Film Festival as part of "The Unexpected" program on Saturday, July 27. Additional festival screenings are pending.

“This film has developed a bit of a life of its own,” Mittelstaedt said. “It’s amazing to get to share it with people we hadn’t anticipated being able to share it with.”

OnHappenings

New courses, new prices: Interlochen Online unveils updates for spring 2024 (News Articles 625846)

melissa.birdsey — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 16:31:25 +0000

New courses, new prices: Interlochen Online unveils updates for spring 2024 (News Articles 625846) melissa.birdsey Fri, 03/08/2024 - 11:31 New courses, new prices: Interlochen Online unveils updates for spring 2024Seven new courses—including an arts-focused college admissions course, an introduction to digital animation, and more—make their debut as the online school increases the affordability of courses and certificate programs. March 8, 2024

Interlochen Online, Interlochen Center for the Arts’ online school, has announced seven new courses and increased affordability of courses and certificate programs.

All four-week courses through Interlochen Online are now $299 each—nearly $200 from their original price. The school’s soon-to-be-launched certificate programs, which were announced at a price point of $1,336.50, will be $799 when all three courses in the program are purchased as a package.

“Our goal is to give as many students as possible the chance to learn from the world-class faculty and instruction that we offer through Interlochen Online,” said Carin Nuernberg, Executive Director of Interlochen Online. “It made sense to have a tuition that was more affordable for students to help them do so.”

In addition to the lower tuition, Interlochen Online will launch seven new courses this spring. New offerings include three Film & New Media programs, a third installment in Dr. Jason Terry’s popular Piano & Keyboard Basics series, and an arts-focused college admissions course created by Katie Luellen, Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at the New England Conservatory of Music.

“We have had strong interest in filmmaking and animation curriculum, and as a result, we are excited to be offering the first of several courses in these areas, along with more courses in very popular areas such as creative writing and theatre,” Nuernberg said. “We also wanted to create a different kind of course that could help families through the complex world of college admissions for students wanting to attend music- or arts-focused schools or programs. The College Prep: Music and Arts School Admissions 101 course does just that—and is filled with really helpful information and guidance that I found myself learning a lot from.”

The seven new courses are:

Acting Techniques: Improvisation with Lori Pearlstein
Improvisation encourages actors to embrace the unknown without a predefined plan. Become comfortable with improvising and practice risk-taking in a safe space.

College Prep: Music and Arts School Admissions 101 with Katie Luellen
By the end of this course, you'll feel confident in your college application strategy—equipped with the tools and knowledge to make the best decision for your future.

Digital Animation 101 with Kenna Marar
Learn the foundational aspects of animation and how to create original works with different feelings, moods, and effects.

Film Production 101 with Drew McClellan
By the end of the course, you will be able to lead your own production, feeling confident in your ability to create a game plan for a successful cinematic production.

Piano & Keyboard Basics 3 with Jason Terry, D.M.A.
Come to this course with the skills of a basic musician and leave as a more holistic performer as you explore lead sheets, extended tertian chords, and improvisation. Note: This course applies to the soon-to-be-launched Piano & Keyboard Basics certificate program.

Screenwriting for Film 101 with Drew McClellan
Learn the key ingredients of crafting a screenplay for film that draws audiences into your story.

Writing Your Memoir with Megan Baxter
Emerge with the confidence and skills to advance your memoir. You'll compose short pieces each week and receive detailed, constructive feedback from your instructor.

View all courses

Open to artists in grades 7 through adulthood, Interlochen Online’s four-week courses combine weekly learning units with opportunities to interact with peers, receive personalized feedback from Interlochen’s acclaimed instructors, and create meaningful, portfolio-ready projects. Courses are designed for flexibility to accommodate students’ busy schedules, and are taught via an innovative, custom-designed online learning environment that inspires creativity and connection.

Ready to refine your skills or discover a new passion? Register now for the April 1 session.

OnHappenings

Interlochen Center for the Arts welcomes three new members to Board of Trustees (News Articles 625399)

melissa.birdsey — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 12:31:49 +0000

Interlochen Center for the Arts welcomes three new members to Board of Trustees (News Articles 625399) melissa.birdsey Thu, 08/31/2023 - 08:31 Interlochen Center for the Arts welcomes three new members to Board of TrusteesThe Perkins Fund Managing Director Sonja Hoel Perkins, Kaufman Music Center Chief Development Officer Jonathan Slawson, and pulmonologist Dr. David Wu join the Board as four previous members depart.

L-R: Sonja Hoel Perkins, Jonathan Slawson, and Dr. David Wu.

August 31, 2023

Three new members have been elected to the Interlochen Center for the Arts Board of Trustees: The Perkins Fund Managing Director Sonja Hoel Perkins; Kaufman Music Center Chief Development Officer Jonathan Slawson (IAC 03); and pulmonologist Dr. David Wu (IAC/NMC 76-79). Perkins, Slawson, and Wu were officially installed as trustees during the recent July 2023 board meeting.

“Sonja, Jonathan, and David have decades of experience as professionals in the investment, philanthropy, and medical sectors—as well as deep personal connections to the arts and to Interlochen—providing unique and diverse perspectives that will greatly enrich our institution,” said Interlochen Center for the Arts President Trey Devey. “I am delighted to welcome them to the Board of Trustees, and I look forward to working alongside them as we prepare for our second century as a global leader in arts education.”

The July meeting also saw four current trustees conclude their terms after a combined 24 years of service: Casey Cowell, Chairman of Boomerang-Catapult, LLC; Susan Kettering, Vice President of the Kettering Family Foundation; Charles “Chuck” Tyler, Managing Member of AZCAT Associates, LLC; and Bill Zheng (IAC 91, IAA 92-96), Chief Designer and Head of China and IAP Design for Stellantis. All four departing trustees received the title of Trustee Emeritus/a in recognition of their dedication.

“During their tenures on the Board of Trustees, Casey, Susan, Chuck, and Bill have advanced our Interlochen community in significant ways—from raising issues that need to be addressed and advocating for Interlochen in their communities to shaping key policies and participating in interviews with potential Interlochen leaders,” Devey said. “They have not only fulfilled their roles as fiduciaries in exemplary fashion, but have also helped spread the word about Interlochen and supported our people and programs. I am deeply grateful for their dedicated service, remarkable generosity, and deep commitment to the young artists of tomorrow.”

Former Michigan Supreme Court justice and current Butzel Long shareholder Kurtis T. Wilder was re-elected as the chair of Interlochen’s Board of Trustees; Sarah Harding, Dean and Weldon Professor of Law at Schulich School of Law, Dalhousie University, Canada, was elected as chair-elect and first vice chair. Saul Goldstein, founder and CIO of ActivumSG Capital Management, and Nancy Hoagland (IAC/NMC 74), President of the Mariel Foundation, will serve as second vice chair and third vice chair, respectively.

“I am deeply honored to have been elected chair for a third consecutive term, and I am delighted to collaborate with Sarah, Saul, and Nancy as we lead this distinguished class of trustees,” Wilder said. “Together, we have the privilege of charting the future of one of our nation’s greatest cultural institutions, ensuring that gifted young artists will have the opportunity to experience exceptional programs at Interlochen for decades to come.”

Sonja Hoel Perkins

“Investing in a way that everyone wins” inspires the life and career of Sonja Hoel Perkins. After almost three decades of venture capital investing at Menlo Ventures and TA Associates, Perkins manages The Perkins Fund, investing in “people and companies that matter.”

Perkins is the founder of both Broadway Angels—a group of world-class investors and CEOs who all happen to be women—and Project Glimmer. Project Glimmer inspires every girl to envision and realize their full potential.

Perkins serves on the boards of Mercy BioAnalytics, Unagi Scooters, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Project Glimmer, and The Pristine Mind Foundation. She is a graduate of the University of Virginia and Harvard Business School. She is a member of the C200, Women Moving Millions, and The Maverick Collective. Her story is featured in Julian Guthrie’s bestselling book Alpha Girls. Perkins and her family have been spending summers at their log cabin on Walloon Lake, Michigan for almost a decade.

Jonathan Slawson

Jonathan Slawson (IAC 03) was a voice major at Interlochen Arts Camp. He serves as President of the Engagement Council, a member of the Annual Fund Committee, and a Regional Ambassador in New York City.

Slawson has spent the last 15 years raising money for nonprofit arts and education organizations. He currently serves as Chief Development Officer for Kaufman Music Center. He previously served as the Director of Individual Giving for Lincoln Center; the Manager of Young Patron Programs for Carnegie Hall; a Major Gifts Officer for Blair Academy; and the Annual Fund Manager for the League of American Orchestras.

Slawson received a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Arts Administration from Westminster Choir College, where he received the President’s Award, and a Master of Science in Nonprofit Management and Cultural Policy from The New School.

Slawson has previously served on Blair Academy's Board of Governors and Westminster Choir College's Alumni Council. He has also served as the USA Representative for the International Federation of Choral Music.

Slawson owes a debt of gratitude to several key people in his life who saw in him the potential that, at the time, he did not see in himself. He considers it a privilege to join Interlochen’s Board of Trustees and help bridge the opportunity gap so others may experience the same.

Dr. David Wu

Dr. David Wu is a native Michigander and grew up in suburban Detroit. He attended the National Music Camp (now Interlochen Arts Camp) from 1976-79 as a violin major. A proud Wolverine, he attended the University of Michigan in the Inteflex Premedical Medical Program and graduated in 1990 with his Bachelor of Arts and Doctor of Medicine.

He served his internal medicine residency at University of Michigan Hospitals and completed his fellowship in pulmonary and critical care at Boston University and the Pulmonary Center. He stayed on as a post-doctoral research fellow in immunology and instructor at Boston University Medical Center.

While in Boston, Wu continued to maintain his passion for music and played in the Longwood Symphony.

Wu has been practicing pulmonary and critical care at Beaumont Hospitals, now Corewell Health Beaumont Royal Oak University Hospital, for over 25 years. In addition, he is involved in the teaching of medical students at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. He is a fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians and member of the American Thoracic Society.

Beyond medicine, he has devoted his career to education and promoting the arts. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and chairs the Education Steering Committee. He also served as a trustee and co-chair of the Strategic Planning Committee at University Liggett School.

He and his wife, Dr. Bernadine Wu, have two children—both of whom attended Interlochen Arts Camp. When he is not practicing medicine, teaching, or attending concerts, he is an avid runner and Peloton rider and loves downhill skiing and travel.

Kurtis T. Wilder

Kurtis T. Wilder is Shareholder at Butzel Long and practices in Butzel’s Detroit Office. He originally joined Butzel in 1989 as a litigation attorney, and left in 1992 to begin a nearly 27-year career as a judge, culminating with his service as the 112th Justice to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court. Justice Wilder concentrates his practice in litigation, appeals, and mediation, arbitration, and facilitation.

Wilder was appointed by Governor John Engler as judge of the Washtenaw County Circuit Court in March 1992. In December 1998, Governor Engler elevated Kurt to the Michigan Court of Appeals, where he served four terms from 1998-2017. In May 2017, Governor Rick Snyder appointed Wilder to the Michigan Supreme Court, where he served until Jan. 1, 2019.

Wilder has two children, Alycia and Klif. Alycia attended Interlochen Arts Camp from 2002-2004 and entered the Arts Academy in 2004, from which she graduated in 2006. Alycia is now a violist with the Flint Symphony and the chamber ensemble Six Mile Strings. Wilder’s admiration and interest in the success of Interlochen grew as a result of watching Alycia develop into an excellent musician and a mature young adult. Klif, who studied double bass with Interlochen double bass instructor Derek Weller, is an auto mechanic with an Ann Arbor auto dealership. He is currently pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice, after which he will begin a career in law enforcement.

Wilder enjoys orchestral as well as small jazz ensemble and classical chamber ensemble performances. Frank Sinatra and Billie Holiday rank among his favorite solo performers, and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Kansas, Chicago, and Earth, Wind and Fire are among the groups of which he is fond. In addition to his service on Interlochen’s Board of Trustees, Wilder also serves on the boards of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan. “The arts inspire, teach discipline, creativity, teamwork, and pursuit of individual excellence. Through the arts, we learn another way to appreciate the spiritual and begin to recognize our common bond with all of humanity. Every student should have the opportunity to experience the lifetime enrichment that results from receiving a quality arts education.”

Sarah Harding

Sarah Harding is currently serving as Dean and Professor at Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University in Canada. Sarah Harding was a tenured member of the faculty at IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law for 25 years. She was a widely recognized teacher and scholar with a focus on the law of cultural heritage, art, and antiquities. She was Associate Dean for Faculty Development from 2008-2014 and oversaw many school-wide projects, including strategic planning, accreditation, and curricular reform. Professor Harding has degrees from McGill University, Dalhousie University, Oxford University (Rhodes Scholar), and Yale Law School.

She has been very active in various community arts and education organizations. She was the founding board chair for Beacon Academy, an innovative Montessori-based high school that opened in 2014, and the first board chair for Haymarket Opera Company, a highly successful new opera company in Chicago.

All three of her children attended the Interlochen Arts Camp in the music, theatre, and creative writing programs, and one of her sons attended Interlochen Arts Academy as a theatre major. She believes firmly in the power of an arts education to introduce children to new ways of thinking and to bring passion and empathy into their lives.

For fun, she spends a lot of time running, cycling, hiking, nordic skiing, gardening, and tending to her bees.

Saul Goldstein

Saul Goldstein is the founder and CIO of ActivumSG Capital Management, a European-focused real estate private equity fund manager with more than €2 billion of equity under management. ActivumSG focuses on asset and corporate turn-around strategies in targeted real estate sectors, combining a private equity mentality with deep expertise in local asset management and a strong on-the-ground presence.

Before establishing ActivumSG, Goldstein headed the European real estate investment team advising Cerberus Capital Management companies on German and European investment opportunities. During his nine-and-a-half years at Cerberus, he helped open and run offices in Japan, Korea, Germany, and the U.K. He advised on investments in real estate, real estate debt, NPLs, and operating businesses in the U.S., Canada, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Mexico, France, Belgium, and Germany. Prior to this, he worked at Cargill Financial Services in Minneapolis and Tokyo.

Goldstein graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts from Cornell University focusing on Asian Studies and Japanese and received a Master of Business Administration from the Wharton School and a Master of Arts in International Studies from the Lauder Institute at the University of Pennsylvania. He was named an Academic All-American, All-Ivy Athlete for rowing.

In addition to playing the trumpet through high school in various symphonic, jazz, pit, and marching bands, he has watched how the arts nurtured the souls of his children. He has a deep respect for the creativity and teamwork that participating in the performing arts fosters. His daughters play the flute and clarinet and his eldest daughter spent several high school summers at Interlochen in the musical theatre program.

The Goldsteins and their two dogs live in London, which is a short drive to some great chalk-stream fly-fishing.

Nancy Hoagland

Nancy Hoagland has over 35 years of experience in professional and community theatre, both onstage and backstage and has a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Mount Holyoke College. Growing up in East Lansing, she learned by example the importance of supporting the arts as she watched her mother, visual artist Carolyn Talbot Hoagland, serve on the boards of such organizations as the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, the Michigan Council for the Arts, and Arts Midwest—all while continuing to pursue her own art. Carolyn’s name now graces the drawing studio in the Dow Center for Visual Arts in recognition of her generous support of Interlochen.

Hoagland’s one summer at Interlochen in 1974 as a drama and voice high school student expanded her artistic horizons. Being surrounded by peers who were passionate about excelling in their craft fueled her desire to reach for higher goals and planted the seeds of a deep appreciation of the importance of the arts and education. Her passion for the arts continued to develop at Mount Holyoke College and Michigan State University.

A world traveler, she found a home at Foothill Theatre Company in Nevada City, California, where she performed, worked backstage, managed the box office, served as education director, and as a board member. Today, she splits her time between Glen Lake and the San Francisco Bay area. With more time available a few years ago, she chose to return to the Interlochen campus and become more involved by volunteering for the IPR fund drive, painting sets for the high school musical, and helping in the Philanthropy Office.

Before joining the board, Hoagland served as co-chair of the Campaign Cabinet for the recent CREATE AMAZING capital campaign. Hoagland and her family have been generous supporters of Interlochen both personally and through the Mariel Foundation for three generations and over the past four decades. Her generous lead donation provided the seed money for the much-needed expansion and renovation of the Dance Center. Honored to be chosen to serve on the board, she is grateful for the opportunity to provide even more support to Interochen and all of its activities.

OnHappenings

Interlochen Arts Camp to conclude Summer 2023 season with 96th performance of “Les Préludes” (News Articles 625075)

melissa.birdsey — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 15:49:53 +0000

Interlochen Arts Camp to conclude Summer 2023 season with 96th performance of “Les Préludes” (News Articles 625075) melissa.birdsey Mon, 07/17/2023 - 11:49 Interlochen Arts Camp to conclude Summer 2023 season with 96th performance of “Les Préludes”Conductor Jung-Ho Pak will lead the combined high school instrumental ensembles and Interlochen Summer Dance Company in the perennial performance of Franz Liszt’s 1848 tone poem.

Conductor Jung-Ho Pak (center) leads the 2019 performance of “Les Préludes.”

July 17, 2023

Interlochen Arts Camp will conclude its 96th season with the annual performance of “Les Préludes” on Sunday, Aug. 6, 2023. The free performance will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the Interlochen Bowl and will also be live streamed on Interlochen’s website. Tickets are not required.

The event will open with the final concert of the 2023 World Youth Symphony Orchestra. Bay Philharmonic Artistic Director and Conductor Jung-Ho Pak will conduct the orchestra in an engaging program that includes Tonya Wind Singer’s “Creation” and selections from Sergei Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet Suites Nos. 1 and 2.

The concert will close with a vibrant multidisciplinary performance of Franz Liszt’s 1848 tone poem “Les Préludes” by musicians from all three of the Camp’s high school instrumental ensembles and the Interlochen Summer Dance Company. Pak will lead the performers in the powerful conclusion of the summer 2023 session.

A beloved and highly anticipated tradition, “Les Préludes” was first performed at Interlochen during the final concert of the inaugural season of the National High School Orchestra Camp (now Interlochen Arts Camp) in 1928. The piece has served as the closing number of the final performance of the season nearly every year since.

OnHappenings

Interlochen Arts Academy singer-songwriter students, alumna to open for Five for Fighting (News Articles 625019)

melissa.birdsey — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:36:43 +0000

Interlochen Arts Academy singer-songwriter students, alumna to open for Five for Fighting (News Articles 625019) melissa.birdsey Mon, 07/03/2023 - 08:36 Interlochen Arts Academy singer-songwriter students, alumna to open for Five for FightingCurrent students Zinnia Dungjen and Audrey Mason and 2023 graduate Clara Devey will perform prior to the platinum-selling balladeer’s July 23 concert at Corson Auditorium. July 5, 2023

Three locally based Interlochen Arts Academy singer-songwriters will open for Five for Fighting during this summer’s Interlochen Arts Festival.

Current students Zinnia Dungjen and Audrey Mason and 2023 graduate Clara Devey will perform prior to the Grammy-nominated balladeer’s concert in Corson Auditorium on Sunday, July 23. Tickets for the performance start at $46.

“Students from the songwriting program at Interlochen are thrilled to have the chance to open for Five for Fighting,” said Courtney Kaiser-Sandler, Associate Director of Contemporary Music & Collaborative Programs at Interlochen Center for the Arts. “This is an incredible opportunity for three students who are local to the Traverse City area.”

Five for Fighting also asked for student openers during his previous visit to Interlochen in the summer of 2014.

“It really shows how important it is to Five for Fighting to give back to young artists,” Kaiser-Sandler said. “The two students who performed in 2014 have gone on to successful careers in the music industry: Lauren Jones of the rising band Trousdale and Rett Madison, who just signed her first record deal with Warner Records.”

Devey, 18, graduated from the Academy in May as a four-year singer-songwriter major. A resident of Interlochen, Devey plays piano, guitar, and horn and describes her songwriting style as “a folky, jazzy, indie type of vibe.” She recently released her debut EP, Perspective, under the name clara bryn.

Dungjen, 16, is a Cedar-based artist who will be a second-year junior at Interlochen Arts Academy in the fall. Dungeon has been writing songs and singing at open mics since she was three years old. Her songs are a unique blend of alternative, jazz, and indie pop styles.

Mason, 15, is a singer/songwriter based in Traverse City. Mason’s indie, folk, and alternative-influenced music flows like the Great Lakes by which she was raised. She hopes her songs create unity, power, and joy for the people that listen to them.

8/21/2023 Update: Follow the trio as they conduct their sound check, perform in Corson Auditorium, and reflect on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

On July 23, 2023, Arts Academy singer-songwriters Audrey, Clara, and Zinnia opened for platinum-selling balladeer Five for Fighting.

OnHappenings

Arts Academy academic instructors Jean Gaede and Taoufik Nadji to retire after decades of dedicated service (Stories 624847)

melissa.birdsey — Thu, 11 May 2023 15:03:36 +0000

Arts Academy academic instructors Jean Gaede and Taoufik Nadji to retire after decades of dedicated service (Stories 624847) melissa.birdsey Thu, 05/11/2023 - 11:03 Arts Academy academic instructors Jean Gaede and Taoufik Nadji to retire after decades of dedicated service Gaede, an instructor of liberal arts, and Nadji, the Academy’s instructor of physics, astronomy, and forensic science, inspired thousands of students to strive for academic excellence.

Instructor of English Jean Gaede (left) and Instructor of Physics, Astronomy, and Forensic Science Taoufik Nadji.

May 24, 2023

If you ask recent Interlochen Arts Academy graduates which of their Academy instructors had the greatest impact on their lives, two names are particularly popular responses: Jean Gaede and Taoufik Nadji.

Gaede and Nadji have been pillars of the Academy’s academic faculty for more than three decades. The duo have exemplified the Academy’s ideal of arts-focused academics, helping their students discover the connections between the arts and their subject areas while challenging them to attain a high level of academic achievement.

This spring, both Gaede and Nadji will retire after more than 30 years of dedicated service. Below, we share a look back at Gaede and Nadji’s storied careers as educators, mentors, colleagues, and friends.

A zest for life and literature

Instructor of English Jean Gaede during the 2019-20 academic year.

Jean Gaede teaches a class during the 1991-92 academic year.

Jean Gaede (left) works with a student in 1993.

Jean Gaede’s history with Interlochen began long before she applied to become a faculty member: As a Michigan native, musician, and daughter of a classical music lover, Gaede has always known about the institution.

“When I was a child, we always had on the Detroit radio station,” Gaede said in a 2020 interview with Interlochen’s Crescendo magazine. “There was a program called Adventures in Good Music. The program was hosted by Karl Haas, who was the first president of Interlochen after Dr. Maddy. I was a piano student in my younger years; my parents asked if I wanted to attend the Academy when it opened, but I decided I was not serious enough about the piano to come.”

Gaede joined the Academy faculty as an Instructor of English in 1986 after over a decade as a teacher in the Michigan Public Schools. Gaede’s experience immediately made her a valuable addition to the school: within two years, she was appointed chair of the Liberal Arts Division, a position she held from 1988 to 1998.

Gaede was also “an instant hit” with students, in the words of former Arts Academy Director Bruce Galbraith. Her passion for literature—and for life—resonated with many of her pupils.

“The things that I learned from [Gaede] really piqued my interest in Russian literature, and I'm still interested in it today,” said Interlochen Arts Academy graduate Benjamin DeBoer (IAC 95-97, IAA 98-02) in a 2012 interview about the Academy’s 50th anniversary. “But more importantly, [Gaede] is someone who has real zest and verve. She has a real fun presence and a real passion for teaching. I felt so drawn to her because of her big personality, her love and her care for her students, and the individual way she went about teaching.”

Paola Prestini (IAC 90-91, IAA 91-93), an acclaimed composer and co-founder of National Sawdust, agrees. “I was profoundly impacted by the brilliant Jean Gaede,” she said. “My love of literature stems from her, and I am the artist I am today because of her. She was fun and electrifying, and I loved her.”

Throughout her tenure, Gaede was a symbol of the excellence of an Academy education, maintaining high standards of scholarly vigor for both herself and her students.

“I took two courses with Ms. Gaede my first year at the Academy—Russian Literature in the fall and Modern American Literature in the spring,” said Tevan Goldberg (IAC 11, IAA 12-14). “In hindsight, these courses were just as good as anything I took later in college and graduate school at Harvard, and miles ahead of my previous school's English classes. Every single reading assignment made a very significant mark on my young mind and continues to resonate powerfully.”

Gaede’s high standards were particularly evident in her emphasis on clear, well-structured writing. She often held extra tutorial sessions to help students master the art of academic writing.

“Ms. Gaede taught me how to write and study well as a teenager,” said Heather Kendrick (IAA 08-11), Dean of Education and Community at Aspen Music Festival and School. “These skills have served me personally, academically, and professionally. When I think back to the teachers who really changed my life and taught me lessons that I still use today, I think of Ms. Gaede.”

Los Angeles Philharmonic bassoonist Evan Kuhlmann (IAA 00-02) also recalls Gaede’s commitment to honing her students’ writing capabilities.

“I’ll never forget the time [Gaede] took on our tutorial sessions to help us refine our essays, challenging and often strengthening our ideas one-on-one,” Kuhlmann said. “In these sessions, she also generously imparted so many words of wisdom about life–perhaps without even trying.”

Despite the countless lessons about literature and writing that she instilled, Gaede is most proud of the relationships she built with her students.

“My greatest sense of fulfillment comes from the lasting connections I enjoy with former students and their families,” she said. “I have carried many of them in my heart for decades, so it's especially uplifting to be remembered.”

And Gaede’s students do remember—not just her lessons, but her compassion, wit, and wisdom. From comforting homesick students to hosting movie nights at her home, from offering college advice to ensuring a student’s MORP date had a tie of the correct color, Gaede consistently demonstrated a level of genuine care that went well beyond her job description.

In 2019, Gaede received the President’s Distinguished Service Award in recognition of her dedication to the students of Interlochen Arts Academy. In his remarks, President Trey Devey praised Gaede as an “invaluable asset to Interlochen” and an “amazing colleague” with “a finely tuned sense of what is just, right, and proper.”

As Gaede prepares to enter her next chapter, the people of Interlochen remain close to her heart.

“I've had the opportunity to work with so many wonderful individuals during my 36 years at the Academy,” she said. “The students, their parents, trustees, my colleagues, and the dozens who have staffed the various departments on campus are all a very meaningful part of my Interlochen experience. Our community's greatest asset has always been the people who've chosen to commit themselves to the excellence for which we are known. I am so proud to have been a part of this tradition.”

But if Gaede has her way, her retirement is less of a “farewell” than it is a “see you later.”

“I have no firm agenda items for retirement,” she said. “With six grandchildren spread across the country, I expect I'll be doing some traveling. But I'd love to come back to work with the students in some capacity, health permitting. This old geezer isn't quite ready for abdication.”

Making physics fun

Instructor of Physics, Astronomy, and Forensic Science Taoufik Nadji poses with Zerrin Veldman-Preble's (IAA 93-97) competition-winning catapult. (Photo by Interlochen Center for the Arts Photo Archivist Eileen Ganter)

Nadji (second from left) teaches a physics class during the 1992-93 academic year.

Nadji (second from left) supervises a physics lab during the 2010-11 academic year.

Taoufik Nadji joined the Academy faculty in 1992 after seeing a posting on a bulletin board at Central Michigan University.

“I had just finished student teaching, and I was working part-time, adjunct faculty positions at three universities—Saginaw Valley State University, Lake Michigan College, and Central Michigan University,” he said in a 2020 interview with Crescendo. “I decided to look for a full-time job, and saw the opening here. I came for an interview and was offered the job. That was [31] years ago.”

Nadji began his career at the Academy as an instructor of physics and mathematics, eventually pivoting to a full-time focus on physics, astronomy, and forensic science in response to demand for more course offerings in the sciences. His kindness, infectious passion for science, and sense of humor made Nadji—known affectionately as Monsieur le ¡Nadj!—a student favorite.

“Monsieur le ¡Nadj! is one of the most unique teachers I've ever met,” said 2022 graduate Lucy Chugh (IO 20, IAA 20-22). “Every day, he brought genuine enthusiasm and generosity towards his students. My favorite memories are about his catchphrases, such as calling people 'silly bananas' or saying 'the people of Nepal love you,' or just his use of emojis in emails.”

Nadji tapped his students’ interests as an educational tool in a variety of ways over the years—from asking students to create arts-based responses to scientific concepts to providing personally relevant examples. The integration of art into the classroom was particularly noticeable in Nadji’s physics classes.

“I decided to change from teaching traditional physics to emphasizing modern physics, such as optics and the physics of sound, because these subjects are more interesting to artists,” he said. “That doesn’t mean that I gave up on traditional physics, but it became something that I would get my students through so I could get to these more interesting subjects.”

Even in his traditional physics modules, Nadji incorporated hands-on activities to make challenging topics easier to understand—and even fun.

“I will never forget the time [Nadji] took our class into the elevator with a bathroom scale, so that we could see our weight change when the elevator started and stopped,” said 2002 graduate and Chicago Symphony Chorus soprano Megan Bell (IAA 00-02). “I'm so thankful for the well-rounded education [Nadji] helped provide at Interlochen.”

“Mr. Nadji truly changed my life,” said 2022 graduate Denver Edwards (IAA 18-22). “He reawakened my love for learning. With Nadji, you always knew what you were learning and why. He made everything fun and exciting, and I never wanted to miss his class.”

One particularly memorable activity for both Nadji and his students was the catapult project, an annual event in which students competed to toss a raw egg as far as possible beyond a 1.5-meter wooden wall. An incident from the inaugural competition remains one of Nadji’s favorite memories.

“I thought the catapults students would build would not be that powerful, so we held the first catapult competition in the Jessie V. Stone building,” Nadji recalls. “I set up tarps and thought I was all prepared.”

“The first few tosses went exactly as I predicted. Then, it was Zerrin (Veldman-Preble’s) turn. She approached me and whispered, ‘Mr. Nadji, I need to move my catapult further back because it will launch the egg quite far.’ I said, ‘OK, let’s move your catapult to the edge of the gym.’ Zerrin launched the egg, and it hit the wall adjacent to the scoreboard way up high. That was the first—and last—time I used an indoor venue for the catapult project.”

Taoufik Nadji (far right) talks with students prior to the 1996-97 catapult competition in the Jessie V. Stone Building.

Zerrin Veldman-Preble (IAA 93-97) poses with her prize-winning catapult during the 1996-97 academic year.

Nadji also encouraged his students to participate in physics activities beyond Interlochen’s campus. In 2005, the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics observed World Year of Physics in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Albert Einstein’s “Miracle Year.” As part of the celebration, three of Nadji’s advanced physics students—Ethan Engle (IAC 01, IAA 01-05), Michelle Rolph (IAC 03, IAA 03-05), and Schuyler Cohen (IAC 03, IAA 04-05)—shared presentations about Einstein’s contributions to physics at the Traverse Area District Library.

Outside of his own classroom, Nadji collaborated with colleagues to showcase how physics concepts apply to the arts and to conduct cross-disciplinary research.

“The late maestro Matthew Hazelwood asked me to share the physics of music with the Arts Academy Orchestra,” Nadji said. “He wanted students to see the comparison between their take on the fourth movement of Beethoven’s fifth symphony and that of three major European orchestras. I recorded their performance and generated a waveform of the piece. Then, I generated similar waveforms for the professional orchestras and displayed the spectra comparisons. It was a fantastic learning moment, and a great display of how arts and science can create magic.”

Pianist Bahar Annadurdyyeva (IAC 06, IAA 06-08) recalls participating in one of Nadji’s physics demonstrations.

“While I did not get a chance to take a class with Mr. Nadji, I remember Dr. [Michael] Coonrod taking us to his amazing classroom,” Annadurdyyeva said. “[Nadji] showed us how string vibration works. I remember the passion with which he delivered the message and the sparkle in his eyes when he was teaching.”

Nadji also partnered with Instructor of Flute Nancy Stagnitta and former Director of Comparative Arts (now known as Interdisciplinary Arts) Nicola Conraths-Lange to examine the effects of physical tension and posture on a flutist’s sound quality. The resulting research, "Pilates, Physics, and the Healthy, Resonant Flutist," was presented at the 2012 National Flute Association Convention and the University of Michigan.

Nadji (front row, seated) with Instructor of Flute Nancy Stagnitta (back row, left) and former Director of Comparative Arts Nicola Conraths-Lange (back row, right).

Nadji poses with the projector prior to his presentation at the 2012 National Flute Association Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Nadji’s other professional accomplishments include publishing articles in The Physics Teacher and The Mathematics Teacher magazines; leading workshops and presentations at national physics, mathematics, and education conferences; and serving as the president of the Michigan section of the American Association of Physics Teachers (MIAAPT). His participation in MIAAPT brought educators from across the state to the Academy for three section meetings—a particular highlight of his professional career.

“[Hosting the meetings] allowed me to demonstrate that Interlochen Arts Academy is not just an arts institution, but also as a mecca for academics,” Nadji said. “The icing on the cake was the fact that two Academy alumni were featured keynote speakers—which is proof that Interlochen does churn out scholars in the academic fields.”

Nadji himself played an instrumental role in preparing the young scholars of Interlochen Arts Academy for careers in the math and science sectors. In 2018, President Devey awarded Nadji the President’s Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his ingenuity in teaching and dedication to his students.

“Nadji has inspired and motivated a new generation of creative learners, and he has built deep and lifelong connections with Interlochen,” Devey said during the award presentation. “I have heard time and again from our alumni about the important role Nadji had in their lives; about his deep commitment to their learning while they were students here; and how his kindness and thoughtfulness resonated with them in the years to follow.”

Beyond sharing his passion for physics, Nadji helped uphold the Academy’s ideals of intercultural understanding by sharing his experiences as a follower of the Muslim faith with students.

“Right after the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, I was asked to speak about Islam at the community meeting,” he said. “It allowed me to share what Islam is truly all about with the Interlochen Arts Academy community. Thanks to liberal arts instructors Tim Johnson, Karen Libby, Jean Gaede, and Brian McCall, presentations about Islam have continued to be offered on almost a yearly basis as part of their respective curricula.”

Nadji’s Muslim faith is the basis for his passion for both teaching and learning—a passion he plans to explore further in his retirement.

“As a Muslim, I am going to always be a learner, a teacher, or both,” he said. “Initially, I am going to be doing some education-related work until I reach the official retirement age—I am still a baby according to Uncle Sam. But since the workload will be lighter, I am hoping to catch up with religious studies, creative writing, and physics and math education research.”

“The educator in me is never going to cease teaching and learning.”

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Announcing Interlochen Online Programs for Adults (News Articles 624558)

marycaroline.whims@interlochen.org — Mon, 01 May 2023 14:57:13 +0000

Announcing Interlochen Online Programs for Adults (News Articles 624558) marycaroline.w… Mon, 05/01/2023 - 10:57 Announcing Interlochen Online Programs for AdultsRegistration will kick off in summer 2023, with online arts courses for adults beginning in the fall in music, musical theatre, creative writing, and more—all taught by Interlochen faculty members. May 8, 2023

When Interlochen Online relaunched with more flexible course options in the fall of 2022, the program rapidly built up a dedicated student base of young artists. Four-week courses and private lessons in a variety of subjects provided options for students who wanted to sharpen their artistic abilities in an engaging online setting. Now, Interlochen is poised to offer online courses for adult learners.

According to Executive Director of Interlochen Online Carin Nuernberg, the courses offer the same world-class instruction and artistic friendships Interlochen is known for, while providing the flexibility to fit with an adult’s busy work schedule.

Here, Nuernberg discusses what inspired the launch for adult learners, describes how the online courses will complement Interlochen’s on-campus options, and shares more details on the programs that will be offered.

Interlochen Online has already built a thriving community for younger students. What inspired the addition of online courses for adults?

Interlochen has been offering educational programs for adults for over 20 years. Through the Interlochen College of Creative Arts, adults can experience retreats and summer programs in music performance, creative writing, sustainability and nature, and a host of other subject areas on Interlochen’s campus in northern Michigan. In a perfect world, we would want everyone to experience the beauty and serenity of the campus, with its lakes, pine forests, gardens, and custom-made arts facilities, but that is simply not possible for most adults who live in disparate places and lead busy lives with family, work, and other responsibilities. What is possible, however, is to bring Interlochen’s expertise in adult education and its world-class faculty to adults around the world. And it became clear that adults were interested in engaging with Interlochen in this way as well. We also want to make sure that we are a resource for our alumni, that we can provide professional development opportunities for them in areas where they would like to strengthen their skill sets.

What are some of the advantages of choosing Interlochen Online as opposed to other online learning options for adults?

Not only has Interlochen had a rich history of teaching adults on its campus, but it has built Interlochen Online from the ground up with a team of creatives who have over 20 years experience in online education for adults. The team works closely with world-class faculty with real-world experience. They are Broadway and TV actors, accomplished songwriters and musicians, award-winning visual artists and filmmakers, and published authors who are passionate about sharing their insight and providing students of all ages with critical mentorship. Together, they design learning experiences that are inspiring and, at the same time, practical to allow people to learn in digestible ways, develop their skills, and connect with others around the world who share their same interests.

With other online options, you are often faced with scouring the Internet to find the quality you are looking for, or something that speaks to your needs, and it can be challenging and time-consuming. Or you turn to college courses that typically ask you to commit to a semester of study, which can be daunting for anyone juggling work and caring for loved ones. Interlochen Online courses allow you to engage in flexible, four-week experiences that are extremely relevant and efficient. They enable you to work directly with faculty who are gifted educators and artists who want to see you succeed in whatever your goals may be.

How do Interlochen Online’s adult learning options complement what Interlochen already offers with Interlochen College of Creative Arts? How do you know which program is the best fit for you?

In many ways, Interlochen Online courses allow you to get a head start on programs you may be attending in person. For instance, you can dive into music theory, which can help you prepare for programs like the Symphonic Band Camp or the Chamber Music Camp, or you could begin writing short stories in one of our creative writing courses and then workshop those stories in our Writer’s Retreat on campus. The online courses are also channels through which you can continue learning and engaging with your peers after attending an ICCA program. From our perspective, the best learning happens when you keep at it, little by little, much like practicing an instrument, and our task is to make it as meaningful and flexible as possible so that you can fit it into your life, make progress, and find joy in doing so.

You are not learning by yourself, but with peers from around the world who share your love of, and interest in, the arts.

Carin Nuernberg, Executive Director of Interlochen Online

How would you describe the program in terms of community? Are there any opportunities for adult learners to connect with each other?

Interlochen’s culture is one that is welcoming, supportive, and caring—and Interlochen Online designs every learning experience with these essential ingredients. You are not learning by yourself, but with peers from around the world who share your love of, and interest in, the arts. Each course gives you opportunities to talk with fellow students and share your ideas and projects, while receiving expert guidance from faculty. The learning environment allows you to connect with each other through messaging throughout the week and through online class meetings. Our hope is that the connections you make in our courses feed future collaborations, whether for professional projects or personal fulfillment.

What kinds of arts subjects will be available?

Interlochen offers seven arts disciplines, and our goal is to have online courses in every one of the areas. Our initial focus is on music, musical theatre, and creative writing, followed by visual arts and filmmaking. With respect to music, we offer instrument-specific courses as well as subjects such as theory, songwriting, and music production.

How can adult learners fit Interlochen Online courses into their work schedules?

Interlochen Online courses require five hours of your time per week. They are designed to be flexible so that you choose when to work on them. Each week you will have guided instruction that has been created by faculty and the Interlochen Online team. That instruction includes video demonstrations, listening and visual examples, practice opportunities, and the chance to discuss topics related to what you are learning with your peers. You can ask questions at any point in the learning environment—faculty check in regularly to make sure you have what you need. You can fit that guided instruction in a little bit each day or evening, or when you have longer chunks of time available on a given day or two.

Interspersed with the guided instruction is the chance to connect in real-time with your teacher and fellow students through video class meetings. The teacher sets up those meetings based on students’ widest availability. You do not have to attend these meetings, but they are a wonderful chance to be together with everyone. If you are unable to attend a meeting, a recording is made available each week so you can view it when you have the time.

The only requirement each week is that you complete an assignment related to what you learned that week. The assignments are designed to be real-world and enjoyable—and you receive personalized feedback from faculty to help you learn and grow. The goal is that by the end of the course, you have a collection of work that showcases all you have accomplished.

When will courses be launched?

Registration for courses will kick off in summer 2023, with courses beginning in the fall.

What’s the vision for the future of online courses for adults through Interlochen Online?

We are feverishly working to grow our catalog of course offerings and ensure they are the highest quality with the best educators in the world. Our goal is to have hundreds of offerings across all of Interlochen’s arts disciplines so that Interlochen Online is a vital, meaningful part of the lives of students of all ages who are seeking to develop their artistic skills and connect with people from around the world who share their interests. In addition, we plan to offer certificate programs, which provide more in-depth study in a particular area and recognition from Interlochen of that accomplishment. Last but not least, we envision offering greater connection points between Interlochen Online and the College of Creative Arts, so that students can not only study online year round but also have more opportunities to experience campus in convenient, transformative ways.

Contact online@interlochen.org for more information.

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'A resource for composers': Composer’s Sandbox builds on tradition of innovation and inspiration (Stories 530958)

melissa.birdsey — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 18:33:10 +0000

'A resource for composers': Composer’s Sandbox builds on tradition of innovation and inspiration (Stories 530958) melissa.birdsey Tue, 03/07/2023 - 13:33 'A resource for composers': Composer’s Sandbox builds on tradition of innovation and inspirationInspired by Interlochen’s long history with acclaimed composers, the creative residency offers composers the freedom and resources needed to explore new musical ideas.

Composer Shuying Li (right, on podium) explains a section of a new work during a visit with the Arts Academy Wind Symphony.

March 7, 2023

Composer Shuying Li (right, on podium) explains a section of a new work during a visit with the Arts Academy Wind Symphony.

Composer Shuying Li (right) and Dr. Matthew Schlomer (left) work with the Arts Academy Wind Symphony.

Composer Jim Stephenson works with the Arts Academy Wind Symphony during his 2020 Composer’s Sandbox residency.

Instructor of Guitar Matthew Cochran (foreground) joins Jim Stephenson (background) and the Arts Academy Wind Symphony to try new ideas during the 2020 Composer’s Sandbox residency.

In 1928, Interlochen Center for the Arts founder Joseph Maddy invited composer and educator Howard Hanson to serve as a guest artist for the inaugural season of the National High School Orchestra Camp.

While Hanson’s assignment was to conduct the National High School Orchestra, he spent a significant portion of his visit composing his second symphony—including the tranquil melody now known as “The Interlochen Theme.” The excerpt has served as the closing number of all Interlochen Arts Camp concerts for generations.

Although Hanson was the first acclaimed composer to be inspired by the people and places of Interlochen, he was certainly not the last: The institution’s famous guests, former faculty, and alumni include John Philip Sousa, Percy Grainger, George Crumb, Aaron Copland, Laura Karpman, and Ashley Fure, among many others.

“Over the years, the composers who have visited us talked about Interlochen and what it meant for them: It was a creative place,” said Dr. Matthew Schlomer, Interlochen Arts Academy’s Wind Symphony Conductor and Instructor of Classical Saxophone. “I wanted Interlochen to be a resource for composers and to continue that tradition of creativity.”

A space for innovation

Inspired by Interlochen’s legacy as a generative space for composers, Schlomer launched the Composer’s Sandbox in 2019. The two- to four-week residency program provides access to Interlochen’s world-class faculty, gifted students, extensive resources, and idyllic location with the goal of empowering composers to experiment with new musical ideas. Participants stay in a winterized cabin outfitted with a piano, printer, and wifi and agree to compose daily, share their artistic experiences with students, and engage with the campus community.

Unlike a traditional composer-in-residence arrangement, the Composer’s Sandbox does not focus on the creation of a new work. “This residency is truly about innovation,” Schlomer said. “The only obligation that Composer’s Sandbox fellows have is to try new things, to use the resources that we have, and to see what happens.”

Schlomer’s vision for the Composer’s Sandbox was informed by a lack of creative opportunities for composers. “I noticed that there wasn’t really a place for composers to experiment safely,” Schlomer said. “With commissioned works, there’s often a pressure to write something similar to what audiences already know, which discourages composers from taking risks.”

In addition to their personal composition practice, Composer’s Sandbox fellows are required to be active participants in campus life during the residency. Composers eat meals in Stone Cafeteria, providing students access to the visiting artist for casual conversations over lunch or dinner. Composers also lead a master class for the Academy’s composition students and make daily check-ins with the Arts Academy Wind Symphony.

“These daily visits serve as a sort of ‘living journal’,” Schlomer says. “The composers can come in and ask us to try something, or they can just tell us what they did today. I’ve told past composers, ‘I don’t want you to prepare a lesson plan. I want you just to be you and to talk like a real person.’ It’s meant to feel like colleagues hanging out.”

For the Academy’s students, the Composer’s Sandbox is an opportunity to get a glimpse at life as a working creative. “Our students have only lived in a conservatory ‘bubble’,” Schlomer said. “They don’t have an image of what it’s really like to be a composer. The Composer’s Sandbox is a chance for them to see that.”

Finding the right fit

The Composer’s Sandbox recently completed its third cycle, which featured guest composer Shuying Li. Past participants include Interlochen Arts Camp instructor Carrie Magin and alumnus James “Jim” Stephenson (IAC/NMC 79-84, 86; IAA 83-86). Composers are selected for the program based on their interest, availability, and willingness to embrace the program’s vision.

“It’s essential that a prospective composer is willing to be adventurous, to be vulnerable with students, and to have discussions at this level,” Schlomer said. “So far, we’ve mostly focused on composers who already have a relationship with Interlochen and who we can be fully confident will thrive here and enjoy this experience. Now that the program is more established, we will begin broadening our reach through an application process, enabling us to find innovative composers who we’ve never met before.”

The rewards of experimentation

The program has already resulted in its first new work: Jim Stephenson’s guitar concerto, Unfrettered, which was commissioned by University of St. Thomas Director of Bands Matthew George for guitarist Chris Kachian.

“Jim had never written for guitar before he came here, and he wanted to figure out how to orchestrate for guitar and winds,” Schlomer said. “During our daily visits, he would bring in orchestrations with different instrument combinations for us to try with [Instructor of Guitar] Matthew Cochran. We’re going to give the Michigan premiere of that work in March.”

Challenging and inspiring the musical community

The Composer’s Sandbox has been enthusiastically received—both by past participants and other composers with whom Schlomer has spoken.

“The composing world is thrilled to have this opportunity,” Schlomer said. “When I was workshopping the idea of the Composer’s Sandbox, I was talking to a composer who said, ‘This is exactly what we need!’ Right after we talked about it, that composer went onto a panel at a major national conference and told the audience, ‘What we need is a sandbox.’ The idea is really taking off: The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra recently launched a similar residency.”

Schlomer hopes that the Composer’s Sandbox will be a source of inspiration for everyone involved—composers, students, and faculty—and for the musical community as a whole.

“The most important goal of the Composer’s Sandbox is to keep moving forward, always looking into the future at the possibilities for the music world,” Schlomer said. “The Composer’s Sandbox fellows challenge our students and faculty to think about music in a different way, which fosters very deep discussions about music. It’s fun for everybody.”

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A Movement of Liberation (Video) (Stories 476144)

melissa.birdsey — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 15:56:11 +0000

A Movement of Liberation (Video) (Stories 476144) melissa.birdsey Mon, 01/09/2023 - 10:56 A Movement of Liberation (Video)Interlochen Arts Academy students are preparing for the world premiere of MUKTI, a multidisciplinary performance that will debut in David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center in New York City.
January 18, 2023

On March 3, 130 Interlochen students will make history as Interlochen Arts Academy becomes one of the first visiting institutions in the world to take the stage at the newly renovated David Geffen Hall. Spanning all artistic disciplines as only Interlochen can, Academy students will premiere a new multidisciplinary work, मुक्ति : MUKTI, and perform side-by-side with musicians from the New York Philharmonic.

Listen in as Interlochen’s Chair of Contemporary Music and मुक्ति : MUKTI co-director Courtney Kaiser-Sandler shares a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the multidisciplinary showcase that will lead up to the side-by-side performance by the Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra and members of the New York Philharmonic.

For more information about the performance, photos of the process students are currently undergoing, stories about Interlochen alumni in the New York Philharmonic, and more, please visit https://www.interlochen.org/nyphil.

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Interlochen Center for the Arts to power 30% of campus operations with Michigan-sourced renewable energy (News Articles 478477)

melissa.birdsey — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 15:35:05 +0000

Interlochen Center for the Arts to power 30% of campus operations with Michigan-sourced renewable energy (News Articles 478477) melissa.birdsey Wed, 01/11/2023 - 10:35 Interlochen Center for the Arts to power 30% of campus operations with Michigan-sourced renewable energyThe arts education and presentation organization will participate in the Consumers Energy Large Customer Renewable Energy Program as part of its ongoing efforts to create a greener, more sustainable community.
January 11, 2023

Interlochen Center for the Arts has pledged to power nearly one-third of its campus operations with clean energy through the Consumers Energy Large Customer Renewable Energy Program.

The ten-year commitment is part of the organization’s ongoing efforts to create a greener, more sustainable community. Through the program, 30% of Interlochen’s annual energy usage will be sourced from Consumers Energy’s Michigan-based renewable energy projects. Interlochen’s action is the catalyst for Consumers Energy to develop a new solar project, and their subscription will begin once the project is operating.

“We’re thrilled to bring clean, renewable energy to our campus,” said Trey Devey, President of Interlochen Center for the Arts. “Since our founding, Interlochen has been committed to protecting and preserving the natural beauty of our lakes and forests. Powering our campus with Michigan-made clean energy is an important next step in our sustainability journey, and we’re proud to be a part of Consumers Energy's Renewable Energy Program in their efforts to create green power for all of Michigan.”

“Consumers Energy is excited to provide clean energy for Interlochen—another visible commitment from a leading Michigan institution,” said Lauren Snyder, Consumers Energy’s vice president of customer experience. “We are proud to see Michigan businesses lead by making clean energy pledges that will boost our state’s prosperity and protect the planet.”

In 2016, Interlochen’s Board of Trustees adopted a sustainability resolution, pledging to “create an environmentally friendly and sustainable campus” at Interlochen Center for the Arts. In the six years since, the organization has constructed a botanical lab and community garden; initiated campus-wide recycling and composting programs; installed water-saving appliances and restroom fixtures; established sustainability education programs for Interlochen students and members of the local community; and donated thousands of pounds of organic fruits and vegetables to the local food pantry at Redeemer Lutheran Church. In 2019, the United States Department of Education designated Interlochen Center for the Arts a Green Ribbon School in recognition of the organization’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact, improve the health and wellness of its students and staff, and provide effective environmental and sustainability education. Later this year, Interlochen will also release its first-ever formalized climate action plan, which will outline further steps toward mitigating climate change and reducing the institution’s carbon footprint.

Michigan’s largest energy provider, Consumers Energy provides energy to 6.8 million of Michigan’s 10 million residents. As part of its industry-leading Clean Energy Plan, Consumers Energy plans to close all of its coal-fired power plants by 2025 and become carbon neutral by 2040. Its Renewable Energy Program offers businesses a flexible solution to achieve their sustainability goals while advancing the greening of Michigan’s power grid and supporting Michigan jobs by building and operating renewable energy resources.

OnHappenings