Ages 16 - 25, Day and Residential Students are welcome

Two week sessions – Choose a single two-week session or stay for four weeks.

Session I - July 10, 2011 – July 23, 2011 Rock On

Session II – July 24, 2011 – August 6, 2011 Broadway

(Download an application)

Offering musical activities, academics, skill building, friendship, and fun!

Program

The BHMA Summer Programs are musical, growth-oriented, and recreational. Under the encouraging guidance of our exceptional teaching staff, participants have the opportunity to try a variety of musical and enrichment activities, and to enjoy concerts, museums, parks, nature preserves, and bike trails.

All students are also required to work on a research project based on the musical genre that is being studied. Students then have the opportunity to present this project to their peers during their two-week session. Based on prior music experience and interests, participants have individualized lessons and group music activities. Parents and families are invited to view the talent show performed during the last Friday evening of a session.

The summer program offers:

• Private music lessons
• Chorus
• Music ensembles
• Group fitness
• Recreational activities
• Dances
• Community trips
• Language Arts
• Mathematics
• Introduction to Social Skills curriculum
• Introduction to Life Skills curriculum
• Music Appreciation
• Talent show
• Staff
  Our experienced staff of music teachers, educators, recreational leade,r and residential support staff are drawn largely from the regular full-time staff of Berkshire Hills Music Academy. Many staff members have graduate or professional degrees. Our music instructors are all seasoned performers with special skills for fostering the musical talents of young adults with learning or developmental disabilities.

• Philosophy
• The Summer Program provides a glimpse of student life at BHMA, where a shared passion for music is nurtured in an atmosphere of mutual acceptance to create a joyful community. A focus on abilities rather than disabilities, opportunities to try new experiences, and meaningful participation in our life together are key elements of our program philosophy.
• Accommodations and Meals

Our dormitories are located on the second floor of the main building, with separate wings for men's and women's living spaces. Each wing has a modern, dormitory-style bathroom. Most rooms are double-occupancy and nutritious meals are served family-style in the Academy's dining room.

• Health and Safety

Overnight staff ensures the safety and comfort of residential students. The building features state-of-the-art security, smoke and fire alarms, and sprinkler system. A unique feature is a special fire alarm designed to meet the needs of individuals with sensitive ears. Numerous staff are Red Cross certified in first aid, CPR, and medication administration. A nurse will check-in all students as they arrive and will be on call during the program.

• Eligibility

This program is intended for young adults, ages 16-25 with learning disabilities who have a high interest in exploring music. In addition to having musical aptitude, applicants to the summer program must have basic self-care skills, display consistently positive social behavior, and exhibit mature group behavior skills. To apply to the Summer Program, click on the link below. Applicants are also required to submit a minimum of two personal references. (Download an application)