Music Production Boot Camp

Our CORE Teaching Principles: Learning by Doing, Understanding Why We Do Things a Certain Way, Physics Is Your Friend, Building the Engineering Mindset

Step into the 10,000 sqft state-of-the-art studio facility and dive headfirst into the world of music production! Led by Division Coordinator Christoph Thompson and faculty, the Music Production Bootcamp gives students an immersive, hands-on experience in recording, acoustics, production, and game audio. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, you’ll leave camp equipped with the skills and confidence to create music like a pro—even from your home studio.

June 21-23, 2025 – Leadership Weekend
June 23-28, 2025 – Full Week Symposium
Ball State University, Muncie, IN

A Day in the Music Production Boot Camp
  • Recording Technology – Start your day with the science of sound. Explore how physics shapes the magic of instruments, microphones, and your favorite audio tracks.
  • Music Production – Master Pro Tools, the industry-standard DAW, while learning how to use plugins and streamline your creative workflow.
  • Ableton – Discover the possibilities of Ableton through beat-making and innovative production techniques that bring your musical ideas to life.
  • Recording Session – Join a professional recording session! Help set up the studio, position microphones, and run cables, then watch it all come together from the control room as pro musicians perform.
  • Game Audio – Bring sound to life in the Unreal Engine as you learn the basics of sound design and implement custom audio into a 3D game world.
Why Choose Bands of America?

Experts
Our team includes world-class educators who are passionate about music and technology. Ryan Van Bibber – TIME Educator of the Year and Ableton expert, leads you through beat-making and creative production. Also learn from Jeff Seitz – AVID-certified Pro Tools instructor with over 30 years of experience in recording and systems engineering. He’ll answer any question about gear, signal flow, or studio setup. Through hands-on instruction and expert mentorship, you’ll gain the confidence and knowledge to take your music production skills to the next level.

The Fun Factor
At Music Production Bootcamp, learning is an adventure. From creating beats and mixing tracks to recording pro musicians and designing game audio, every moment is packed with creativity and discovery. You’ll also connect with like-minded peers who share your passion for music and tech!

Note to Parents
We know you want the best for your child, and this camp delivers. At Bands of America’s Music Production Bootcamp, your student will gain practical, hands-on training in a supportive, state-of-the-art environment. With our expert faculty, dedicated SWAG team, and a safe, supportive environment, you can trust your child will thrive and create unforgettable memories.

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!

2025 Music Production Boot Camp Faculty

What are students saying about the Music Production Boot Camp?