Musical camp for kids and teens in New Jersey
Turning young talent into bright, confident performers!
We believe that music is for everyone. At our overnight musical camp, kids and teens of all backgrounds create music together in a supportive community, enjoying a safe space to experiment with sound and self-expression.
Sing, play instruments, and perform all summer long!
Music at Appel Farm is hands-on and active from the very first day. Campers sing together, rehearse in small groups, practice instruments, and perform regularly in a way that feels encouraging instead of intimidating. Campers are always making something, whether they’re learning harmonies, building confidence on guitar, or collaborating in a band.
For more than 60 years, Appel Farm has been a trusted name in children’s music camps and New Jersey arts summer camps. Founded by musicians and educators Albert and Clare Appel, the camp was created with a simple idea in mind—young people deserve a place where creativity and care go hand in hand. That philosophy still shapes everything we do today, from how classes are taught to how community is built.
Every young performer becomes a star at our musical camp
At Appel Farm, becoming a “star” doesn’t mean outshining others. It means discovering what you do best and feeling proud of it. Our non-competitive approach keeps the focus on personal growth, collaboration, and creative confidence.
Campers are encouraged to take risks, try new things, and support one another, so every young performer has the space to shine in their own way.
An LGBTQ+-friendly, gender-inclusive music camp that celebrates individuality
Appel Farm is proud to be an inclusive performing arts camp where campers are supported exactly as they are. We are an LGBTQ+-friendly, gender-inclusive musical camp in New Jersey that actively works to create a space where every camper feels safe, respected, and valued.
Campers are encouraged to express themselves creatively without worrying about fitting into a mold. Gender-neutral facilities, thoughtful staff training, and a strong culture of respect help make this a place where kids can focus on music instead of self-consciousness.
Our musical camp environment brings out the best in creative kids
Some kids arrive ready to perform. Others are quieter and still figuring out where they fit. Both belong here. Our musical camp for kids and teens is designed to meet campers where they are and help them grow from there.
Through collaborative rehearsals, supportive instruction, and shared performances, campers gain confidence naturally. They learn how to take creative risks, how to support others, and how to recover when things don’t go perfectly. Those moments, rehearsing under the trees or performing on our outdoor stage, are where real growth happens.
See the stages, studios, rehearsal rooms, and indoor and outdoor performance spaces where confidence and creativity take center stage. Visit our musical camp virtually or in person today!
Our overnight musical camp program structure
Our overnight music summer programs are immersive without being overwhelming. All kinds of young musicians—band members, guitarists, pianists, and singers—find inspiration and growth at our camp!
- Campers choose a music Major based on their interests, including vocal studios, rock band, songwriting, piano, strings, brass, and woodwinds.
- Classes are intentionally small and team-taught, which means campers receive more individual attention.
- Beginners feel supported as they build foundational skills, while more experienced musicians are challenged and encouraged to go deeper.
- Outside of classes, campers spend time jamming with friends, rehearsing for performances, and experimenting during open studio sessions.
- Four-week campers perform in a final concert, rock show, or concert camp experience that celebrates effort and collaboration.
What can campers expect at our creative music camp?
At Appel Farm, every day is filled with sound and discovery! Campers can expect a supportive environment where they practice, experiment, and make music together—all while building confidence and friendships along the way.
Voice, instruments & sound exploration
Campers spend time developing their voices and instruments in a supportive setting. Vocalists explore range, tone, and expression, making this a popular summer vocal program for high school students. Instrumentalists build technique and confidence while learning how to play comfortably with others.
Composition & songwriting
Songwriting is a favorite for many campers because it allows them to tell their own stories. Campers experiment with lyrics, melody, and structure, often working collaboratively to shape original songs. For kids interested in music production summer programs, this creative process is both empowering and fun.
Music appreciation, history & theory
Understanding how music works helps campers become better musicians. Through approachable lessons in theory, listening, and music history, campers gain context that strengthens their performance and appreciation of different styles, including rock, pop, and even jazz music.
Ensemble music-making
Playing in an ensemble teaches skills that go far beyond music. Campers learn timing, cooperation, and communication while making something bigger than themselves. These moments are often where friendships form and confidence grows!
Grow with professional music instructors and teaching artists
Appel Farm’s teaching artists bring real-world experience and a deep love of working with young folks. Many are performers, composers, and educators who understand how to teach in ways that feel approachable and encouraging.
Campers can expect:
- Small classes with multiple instructors for personal attention
- Teaching artists who model collaboration and curiosity
- Support for beginners and experienced musicians alike
- Clear instructions paired with warmth and humor
Music is better when you play it together!
Music at camp is never just about individual achievement. It’s about listening, responding, and supporting one another.
Campers practice:
- Learning to listen closely to the group
- Finding their place within the sound
- Supporting the ensemble through cooperation
- Growing through shared rehearsals and performances
These skills translate directly into confidence, teamwork, and resilience. Families often describe Appel Farm as a confidence-building summer camp because of how naturally these lessons take shape!
Testimonials
Check out our camp dates, rates, and scholarship program (2026)
We want families to have clear, straightforward information as they plan ahead. Below you’ll find session dates, tuition options, and details about financial aid for Summer 2026 at Appel Farm Arts Camp.
Appel Farm summer 2026 camp dates
Appel Farm Arts Camp offers both two-week and four-week sessions, giving families flexibility based on their child’s interests, schedule, and readiness for time away from home.
Many families choose a two-week session as an introduction to camp, while others opt for the four-week experience to allow campers more time to grow creatively, build friendships, and fully immerse themselves in the arts-focused camp community.
Two-week sessions
- July 5 – July 18, 2026
- July 19 – August 1, 2026
Four-week session
- July 5 – August 1, 2026
Appel Farm summer 2026 tuition rates
| Session Length | Supported Rate | True Cost Rate | Sustaining Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Weeks | $3,750 | $4,000 | $4,250 |
| 4 Weeks | $6,500 | $6,750 | $7,000 |
- Supported rate: A partially subsidized option for families who need additional flexibility. This rate does not reflect the full cost of operating our summer camp programs.
- True cost rate: Reflects the actual cost of camp, including facilities, program materials, and equitable pay for staff.
- Sustaining rate: Includes a tax-deductible donation that helps support scholarships for families who would otherwise be unable to attend.
Appel Farm summer camp scholarships and financial aid
Appel Farm Arts Camp welcomes young people who may not otherwise have the resources to attend summer camp. We believe that creativity, community, and belonging should be accessible to all!
As you plan for summer 2026, we encourage families to take a look at the tuition options above and choose the rate that best fits their situation. If one of the listed rates works for your family, selecting that option helps us reserve scholarship support for families who need it most.
Important scholarship details to know before applying:
- Scholarships are available for two-week sessions only
- If your camper would like to attend for four weeks, you are welcome to register and pay the difference in tuition
Scholarship awards are made on a rolling basis- First round of decisions: February 2026
- Final decisions: April 2026
- All awards depend on available funding from Appel Farm and our partners
Discover what makes Appel Farm special
Explore programs, dates, and what makes Appel Farm such a unique summer experience—or talk directly with our team!
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Are there free summer programs for high school students in New Jersey?
Most music summer programs in New Jersey require tuition due to staffing, instruction, housing, and meal costs. At Appel Farm, we work hard to make our music camp accessible by offering financial aid and flexible payment options, so more families can take part in a high-quality arts experience. Check out our scholarships page for more information!
What ages are best for a musical camp like Appel Farm?
Our musical camp for kids and teens is designed for campers ages 8 to 16. Younger campers often join us because they love singing, playing an instrument, or being part of a group, while older campers appreciate the deeper focus on ensemble work, songwriting, and performance.
We welcome beginners and experienced musicians alike, making this a great option for families exploring children’s music camps, high school musical camps, or a creative step up from day programs.
What should I bring to a theater or music camp?
Campers typically wear casual clothes that they can move in easily, like t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and sneakers. Since Appel Farm is an overnight summer music camp with outdoor spaces, layers are helpful for cooler evenings and rehearsals on our outdoor stage. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for performances and walking around campus. Campers should also bring comfortable clothes for free time, performances, and special events. Sometimes, we have camp dances and encourage kids to bring fun, creative costumes or dress-up clothes if space allows in their suitcase!
Do campers need prior experience to attend this music camp?
Not at all. Appel Farm is an audition-free musical camp where curiosity and enthusiasm matter more than experience. Some campers arrive having taken private lessons or played in school bands, while others are just starting out. Our small class sizes and team-taught approach allow instructors to meet each camper where they are. This makes the camp a strong fit for beginners as well as for those looking for a more focused, music-intensive experience.
How is Appel Farm different from other music camps or performing arts camps in New Jersey?
Appel Farm stands out for its non-competitive approach and strong sense of community. Campers learn in small classes with plenty of personal attention, and they’re encouraged to try new things without pressure. As a gender-inclusive, LGBTQ+-friendly music camp in New Jersey, we focus just as much on confidence, creativity, and belonging as we do on musical skills!