Ball State University Director of Music Media Production Program and Recording Engineer
Bands of America
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, 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!
Care and Supervision
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.
2025 Music Production Boot Camp Faculty
Christoph Tompson
Division Coordinator
Jeff Seitz
Ball State University School of Music Audio/Digital Systems Engineer
Ryan VanBibber
Music and Audio Production Teacher, Fort Hayes Metropolitan Education Center and Columbus State Community College, OH
What are students saying about the Music Production Boot Camp?
I think that this camp is a great opportunity to not only improve at something that you love but also to meet people from around the rest of the country that love to do the same things you do.
You should attend camp because you will leave having gained friends who share the same passion for music production as you do, as well as learn more skills that will help you grow your music career.
The people you meet are amazing. You meet so many new people that help you crawl out of your shell. You also get so much help and experience from the staff that ultimately just drives you to push and be the best you can be.
No amount of videos or social media can do justice for how well this camp is in person, I improved my overall techniques a lot while also making new friends!
This camp was a life changing experience, 10 out of 10 would recommend!
You are surrounded by others with the commitment, dedication, and passion for an entire week… with people who help you learn new skills. It’s fantastic!
