Interlochen Center for the Arts | Michigan

Aug 4

In addition to the long list of activities in the heart of Traverse City, there are limitless opportunities a short drive away. One of my favorites is enjoying a concert at Interlochen Center for the Arts, a 20 minute drive southwest of Traverse City,

Founded in 1928, the internationally renowned Interlochen Center for the Arts is 1,200 peaceful wooded acres between Duck and Green Lakes offering summer arts education camps for students in grades 3-12, adult programs, a fine arts boarding high school, two public radio stations, as well as hosting concerts and events throughout the year in this beautiful natural setting.

The past two summers I’ve enjoyed some wonderful concert at The Interlochen Arts Festival. One of our favorites this year was Harry Connick Jr. in Kresge Auditorium. This open-air, covered amphitheater has a seating capacity of 3,929, is the largest venue at Interlochen. It’s an awesome place to enjoy a concert during the Summer Arts Festival.

Harry Connick Jr. taking some time to talk with fans.

The Tender Land, part of the Aaron Copland featured events at Upton-Morley Pavilion

Kresge is just one of many beautiful indoor and outdoor venues on the campus. I look forward to going to some of the student performances as well as other performances during the year.

Check out the schedule of upcoming events here. Even if you don’t purchase tickets, it’s a wonderful place to spend a summer evening hanging out on the grounds, and listening to the beautiful music coming from all directions.

The long line for soft serve ice cream is worth the wait.

One of my favorite things to do is arrive early for the concert and walk through the trees lined roads of practice huts listening to the amazing talent of the students. The cacophony of sounds is discordant – voices, piano, and instruments practicing everything from scales to classical pieces. But there is something very soothing and enjoyable as the sounds of incredibly talented students commingle in the beauty of nature.

It’s the perfect blend of nature and the arts.

I would have loved being a part of this vibrant environment when I was a kid. Imagine combining camp with the arts – two of my favorite things! How amazing to attend camp where everyone shares their passion for the arts.

How cool is this for an outdoor performance!

Growing up actively involved in music and theatre, I feel a special affinity to the kids who attend Interlochen. They are dedicated and working hard to hone their talents. They do what it takes to get there, even working to pay the tuition by playing violin at the weekly Farmers Market.