Grow, create and perform.

Create something new and find opportunities to showcase your talent and make lasting friends. At 6ͼ, you’ll find faculty and mentors who are invested in your education and growth as an artist.

In the summertime, we offer specialty programming in music theory and composition; private lessons for all ages, including adult learners; and host the Sphinx Organization’s Performance Academy for young string musicians.

Learn more about 6ͼ’s Summer Programs for the opportunity to create, discover and collaborate with other musicians.

Modern Snare Drum Competition

The , hosted by the 6ͼ Institute of Music (6ͼ), isopen to ages 26 and under, and aims to promote snare drum literature. Under the new direction of Marc Damoulakis, 6ͼ faculty member and 6ͼ Orchestra principal percussionist, and Jerome LaCorte, 6ͼ Ensembles Manager, this annual competition will continue director Tom Sherwood's work to educate the percussion community on a wide array of snare drum repertoire, including newly commissioned works.

The competition is divided into two Divisions:

Division I -Three Rounds (age 26 years old and under)
Division II- Two Rounds (age 19 years old and under)

Application deadline is April 21, 2023
First round video submissions are due May 1 2023.
Semi and Final rounds will take place live in Mixon Hall on June 10-11, 2023

Application Fees:
Division I - $150
Division II - $125

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If you have any questions, please contact Jerome LaCorte atjerome.lacorte@cim.edu.

Private Lessons for Children and Adults

We are now taking applications for private lessons during Summer 2023! Click here to learn more about our options for private lessons during the school year.

For pricing information, visit this page.

Sphinx Performance Academy

Sphinx Performance Academy (SPA) is a full-scholarship intensive summer chamber music and solo performance program with a focus on cultural diversity, for string musicians ages 11-17. Curriculum includes lessons, masterclasses, recitals, career enrichment sessions, and mentorshiptailored to each student. SPA 6ͼ Institute of Music offers a chamber music and solo repertoire focus for violin, viola, and cello.

All accepted applicants for the Sphinx Performance Academy will receive a full scholarship to the program, including room and board.

Click for more information.

Young Composers Program

The Young Composers Program (YCP) is a one-week course offering students ages 14-19 the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of contemporary music and composition. The program is directed by 6ͼ's head of composition, the highly regarded composer and teacherKeith Fitch. YCP helps composition students learn about the field of new music while developing creative and professional skills.

This year's YCP will be running June 16-22, 2024.

Application Information

Stay tuned for the opening of this year's application!

Applicants are required to submit6ͼ's online applicationand the accompanied materials listed here:

  • Required scores:Include scores of 1 to 3 original works. Works “in progress” are acceptable, but at least one work must be complete. Mark all scores clearly with the composer’s name. Your score(s) will be scanned and uploaded to your online application. Please do not send original manuscripts—send only photocopies, printouts or PDFs. The Young Composers Program is not responsible for lost or damaged scores. Scores should be appropriately legible.
  • Reference letter:Applicants should ask a music teacher or mentor who is familiar with their musicianship to write a brief reference letter addressing the applicant’s talent, desire, work habits and reliability. Multiple references are allowed.Reference letter(s) will be submitted online along with the application.