Jazz Division

Our CORE Teaching Principles: Musicianship, Creativity, Expression, Community

Unleash your creativity, explore improvisation, and experience the joy of making music at the Bands of America Summer Camp! The Jazz Division offers a fun, supportive environment where students of all levels learn from a world-class faculty of performers and educators. With daily ensembles, workshops, and jam sessions, you’ll gain extraordinary skills while building confidence and musical expression. Join us this summer for an unforgettable week of jazz, creativity, and inspiration!

June 20-22, 2026 – Leadership Weekend
June 22-27, 2026 – Full Week Camp
Ball State University, Muncie, IN

Register Now for 2026!

A Day in the Jazz Division

Big Band Rehearsals – There’s nothing like playing in a big band! It’s one of the best ways to experience the energy, history, and tradition of jazz. At camp, you’ll get two full rehearsals every day with some of the best musicians and teachers out there.

Masterclasses – Want to sound better, play stronger, and express yourself more? Our Yamaha Master Artists will give you tips on building your technique, creating a practice routine that actually works, and getting more out of your instrument. These daily masterclasses are all about helping you find your voice as a musician.

Musicianship Training – Great jazz players don’t just play notes—they understand the language of music. Every day, you’ll dig into music theory in a way that’s practical and fun, using guided listening and hands-on activities. By the end of the week, you’ll hear music in a whole new way and know how to use that knowledge to make your playing more creative.

Jam Sessions – Jazz is all about improvisation and playing with others. Our daily jam sessions are your chance to cut loose, try new ideas, and create music with your friends in a supportive environment. You’ll gain the skills and confidence to solo, experiment, and maybe even start your own group when you head back home!

What Everyone Experiences

Concerts and Events Every Night!
One of the best parts of the Bands of America Summer Camp? Our nightly concert series! Each evening, you’ll get up close with amazing live performances, from rock and jazz to classical and more. It’s a unique chance to see top touring artists and groups, and it’s always a camp favorite! End the week with a drum corps show at the stadium!

Become a Leader!
Spend an epic week surrounded by legendary teachers, inspiring artists, and friends from across the country—and even the world. In a supportive, campus-style vibe, you’ll grow as a musician and discover your leadership potential. Start the week with our Leadership Weekend to dive straight into a week packed with skills, friendships, and experiences that’ll stick with you long after camp ends. Ready for the best summer of your life?

North Dining: Your Campus Food Hub!
Craving variety? North Dining at Ball State has it all. From Starbucks to Chick-fil-A, custom allergen-free meals, BBQ, an all-day breakfast bar, fresh pastries, and even a waffle station! Explore endless options for every taste.

Modern Living in the Heart of Campus!
Located in the lively north neighborhood, our camp residence halls offer state-of-the-art amenities and a prime spot near North Dining. You’ll enjoy all the comforts of home with campus essentials just steps away! These are not your parents’ dorm rooms!