JUNE 27 - JULY 4, 2026
@ Laurel School of Music
Saint Paul, MN

Applications Open:
January 1, 2026
Application Deadline:
February 15, 2026

The Saint Paul Chamber Music Institute (SPCMI) is a unique chamber music program for pre-college and college players led by members of the Jasper Quartet.

Students deeply explore two works of chamber music- one with the special opportunity of rehearsing daily and performing in an ensemble with members of the Jasper String Quartet, and the second in an ensemble with fellow students.

Music-making skills including interpretation, ensemble technique, listening, and communication with an audience are emphasized. At the same time, we promote citizenship skills related to responsibility to others, encouraging positive group dynamics, and collaborative problem solving. Students participate in masterclasses and coachings from world-renowned faculty, attend SPCMI faculty performances, and perform in the SPCMI Collaboration Concert with members of the Jasper String Quartet.

  • "It was a great camp and I had so much fun making friends, rehearsing together, and playing in the final concert of the SPCMI!”

    Former SPCMI Student

  • “I appreciated the opportunity to work with members of the Jasper Quartet and play in an ensemble with them. I feel like that's where I learned the most and improved my musicality and rehearsal skills. I also liked the evening activities like ultimate and the arcade because it allowed us to experience something new. I also liked the masterclass and hearing how Tom and the Jasper Quartet would give them advice on sound projection in the hall.”

    SPCMI Student

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

  • Private instructor reference contact information + Recommendation Letter or online recommendation form (coming soon.)

  • Student audition video: 5-10 minutes of representative playing; 2 contrasting pieces preferred (link to YouTube, Vimeo, or file in Google Drive) Fischoff Competition applicants may just submit their Fischoff recordings – no need to make something new.

  • Non-refundable $75 application fee

PROGRAM COSTS

  • $1800 Tuition

  • $665 for Room + Board

  • Scholarships available for pre-formed groups and returning students

  • Financial aid is available. More details + financial aid application are coming soon.
    SPCMI 2026 is funded in part by Anna M. Heilmaier and the Minnesota State Arts Board.

ELIGIBILITY

  • Pre-college, college, and graduate students (ages approx. 12-22)

  • String students and pianists

  • Individuals or pre-formed groups

  • Enrollment is limited. Early application is strongly encouraged.

HOUSING

  • Students are housed in single rooms in the dorms of the University of St. Thomas.

  • Room and Board fees include transportation between lodging and all program locations.

TRANSPORTATION

  • Students should plan to arrive on Saturday, June 27 and depart on Saturday, July 4th, 2026.

  • Transportation to and from the MSP airport is provided by Laurel School of Music + SPCMI.

  • Students arriving by car will receive detailed parking and drop-off information. Free parking is available at the dorm and performance locations throughout the duration of the SPCMI.