Summer Piano Academy

Students watch from rows of chairs as a classmate performs on a grand piano

two students playing a duet on two pianos

Students in academy T-shirts look at a wall display of musical instruments.

The Bethel University Summer Piano Academy is an immersive eight-day residential experience for pianists in grades 3-12 at the time of registration.

With comfortable room and board on campus, young pianists are invited to step into an inspiring environment where their passion for music can flourish.

Throughout the week, students hone their skills in lessons, master classes, and ensemble collaborations—culminating in memorable performances on a beautiful concert stage. It’s a rare opportunity to grow both as a musician and an artist, surrounded by friends who share the same love for piano and guided by dedicated faculty who will challenge, encourage, and inspire you.

Our vision provides a deeper understanding of our program’s goals and philosophy.

Details

Dates	July 6-13, 2027
Location	Bethel University, St. Paul, Minnesota
Founder and director	Tina Park
Co-artistic directors	Tina Park, Horacio Nuguid
Registration	Registration open January 2-May 15

New for 2027

Discover inspiring artists, creative classes, and exciting performance opportunities:

Peter Mack, distinguished guest artist, internationally acclaimed pianist, inspiring educator, and former president of Music Teachers National Association
Kyra Xuerong Zhao—new faculty member from the New England Conservatory
“Beethoven and His Circle: Two Pianos, Many Hands”—the opening faculty concert, a commemoration of Beethoven through dynamic solo and collaborative piano performances
Concerto Spotlight Concert—featuring academy soloists with the professional Sapphira String Ensemble (returning)
Ensemble showcase concert—featuring piano four-, six-, and eight-hands, chamber music, and junior concerto movements under five minutes.
Expressing Yourself in Music: Beginning Composition with Sarah Miller—explore creativity through music composition
Beethoven Unlocked: Discover the Genius Behind the Music! with Peter Mack—an engaging exploration of Beethoven through stories, demonstrations, and musical discoveries

Application requirements

payment of $40 nonrefundable application fee
completed registration form
link to a sample video performance—for first-time applicants only

Required repertoire

Each student must prepare two memorized solo pieces. A concerto movement may count as one of the two required solo pieces.

Students are also warmly encouraged to bring an optional third piece to enjoy making music with friends. This may be a piano 4-, 6-, or 8-hands piece, chamber music, or a movement of a junior concerto lasting five minutes or less, provided that all ensemble members are registered academy participants. Ensemble repertoire does not need to be memorized and may be considered for performance in the ensemble showcase concert if the repertoire is approved.

Expectation of level

To ensure a rewarding and engaging musical experience, students should have reached a minimum playing level equivalent to Bach Minuet or a Clementi sonatina. This foundation will help students fully participate in the academy’s lessons, studio classes, and collaborative musical activities.

Our vision

We aim to provide pre-college students with a dynamic platform where high-quality programming and professional instruction nurture both talent and artistry. We aim to cultivate a deep love for the arts while refining performance skills through exceptional teaching, dedicated practice time, and inspiring performance opportunities.

We emphasize both solo and ensemble playing, fostering collaboration, attentive listening, and the joy of shared music-making. Through the challenges and triumphs of this journey, students grow not only as musicians but also as individuals—supported by an enriching, encouraging community.