Interlochen Center for the Arts

Interlochen Center for the Arts is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering arts education and community through a variety of programs. Established in 1928 by Joseph E. Maddy, it is located on a 1,200-acre campus in Green Lake Township, Grand Traverse County, Michigan.

History

The area where Interlochen is situated experienced significant development during the late 19th century, with the extension of rail lines facilitating the growth of logging and fishing industries. Interlochen State Park, established in 1917, is adjacent to the campus, adding to the natural beauty of the region.

Programs

Interlochen Center for the Arts encompasses several distinctive program areas:

• Interlochen Arts Camp: This renowned summer arts program serves students in grades 3-12, offering a comprehensive range of artistic disciplines.
• Interlochen Arts Academy: Founded in 1962, it is a pre-professional arts boarding high school that provides rigorous arts and academic curricula. Students can major in creative writing, dance, film and new media, interdisciplinary arts, music, theatre, and visual arts.
• Interlochen Online: Offers virtual arts education for children, teens, and adults, providing accessible learning options for individuals worldwide.
• Interlochen Presents: Hosts over 600 annual performances by guest artists, students, and faculty, enriching the cultural landscape of the region.
• Interlochen Public Radio: Operates as a charter member of National Public Radio (NPR), offering classical music and news programming to a broad audience in northwest Michigan and beyond.
• Interlochen College of Creative Arts: Provides non-degree granting arts programs and continuing education units for adults aged 18 and older.

Accolades

Interlochen Center for the Arts has received numerous prestigious awards, including the National Medal of Arts in 2006. Interlochen Arts Academy is a perennial leader in producing Presidential Scholars in the Arts, with more recipients than any other high school in the United States.

Alumni

Interlochen has a distinguished alumni body, including notable figures such as Grammy Award-nominated singer Josh Groban, Emmy Award-winning producer Vince Gilligan, and New York Philharmonic principal clarinetist Anthony McGill. Over 100,000 artists have attended Interlochen's programs, with many going on to excel in their respective fields.

Mission

The organization is dedicated to promoting world friendship through the universal language of the arts. Its mission focuses on nurturing creativity, fostering artistic growth, and building a global community of artists and arts enthusiasts.