Butler Community Arts School - Piano Camp
Monday–Friday, 9:00–12:30 PM
Lilly Hall at Butler University
Tuition: $235
Registration deadline: May 31
Need-based tuition assistance available.
Butler piano camp is designed for students with at least one year prior piano study. Students will be divided into smaller groups based on age and repertoire level. Activities will focus on music skills that are appropriate for students in each respective group. Our intent is to maintain interest, stimulate imagination, and provide attainable challenges. Classes may include repertoire, ensemble, music theory, and games.
Students should bring a favorite solo piece to share (memory optional). Ensemble pieces will be provided the first day of camp. Tuition includes a T-shirt and all materials.
Tentative Schedule
- Monday, 8:30 AM: Camp check-in
- Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–12:30 PM: Campers follow daily camp schedule*
- Friday, noon: Informal camper concert at Lilly Hall
*Provisions for after-camp care are not available; all campers should be picked up at 12:30 PM daily (unless camper is enrolled in afternoon Arts Camp).
Meet the Artistic Director!
DJ Smith has served on the piano faculty of Butler University since 2008. DJ maintains his own private studio of students of all ages and performance levels through the Butler Community Arts School. DJ is also the Artistic Director of the BCAS Piano Camps. He holds a bachelor’s degree in piano performance from Indiana Wesleyan University and a master’s in piano pedagogy from Butler University. He is a nationally certified teacher in music (NCTM). DJ Smith is currently president of the Indiana Music Teachers Association. DJ performs regularly as soloist, collaborates with fellow artists, and frequently lectures at conferences and festivals throughout the region. Recent projects have included a performance of Carnival of the Animals in collaboration with fellow faculty artists, featured as part of the Butler ArtsFest. He has also recently presented a lecture recital on the shorter piano works of Alexander Scriabin for both the IMTA Conference and the Butler University Faculty Artist Series. DJ is the director of music at Irvington United Methodist Church where he plays piano, organ and directs the choir.
Afternoon option: Arts Camp
Arts Camp will be offered from 1:30–5:00 PM during the week of Piano Camp. Students can take an adventure through all of the arts, including visual art, dance, music, and theatre. No prior experience is necessary. Please see Arts Camp description for tuition. Students will be supervised by designated camp staff from 12:30–1:30 PM until the start of Arts Camp. Lunch provided.
Registration form, $50 non-refundable deposit, and remaining tuition are due in full by May 1. Payment plans available. No refunds will be issued after May 1. Late applications may be accepted on the basis of available space.
Contact BCAS@butler.edu or 317-940-5500 with any questions.
Visit the BCAS website for all class and registration information!