Music & Mindfulness 2026

Program Name:           Music & Mindfulness

Program Director:       Denise Kinney

Date:                           Sunday, June 14 – Monday, June 22, 2026

Location:                     Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges, Syria, VA

Student Check-in:       Sunday, June 14, 4:00 PM

Student Check-out:     Monday, June 22, 8:00 AM

Food and Lodging:     Provided by Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges

Overview:

Music & Mindfulness is an 8-day overnight program that offers advanced level high school orchestral and vocal students a robust and rewarding opportunity to expand their musical skills, connect with nature, learn mindfulness techniques, and receive guidance and support on their paths to college and careers.

Students will learn through one-on-one instruction, sectional and small group sessions, chamber music coaching, and orchestral and choir rehearsals and performances. They will also have the chance to expand their skills with introductory workshops in new genres such as jazz and bluegrass, and join faculty for lively jam sessions and collaborative concerts.

Throughout the week-long program, students will take part in daily mindfulness practices aimed at improving focus, building resilience, reducing stress, and fostering a strong mind-body connection. The schedule will also include relaxing activities like yoga and meditation, along with fun recreational options such as swimming, horseback riding, nature walks, campfires, karaoke, and a dance party.

Faculty:

Joseph Illick – Conductor

Rachel Segal – Chamber Music Director

Tam Tran – Violin and Viola

Eric Stephenson – Cello

Kevin MacConnell – Double Bass and Bass Guitar

Doug Marshall – Bluegrass Guitar, Banjo, Fiddle, Dobro

Alejandra Santillanes – Flute

Bill Williams – Trumpet

Michael Peck – Percussion

Heather Bloodworth – Mindfulness-Infused Music

Jean Bennett Mintz – Wilderness Wellness

Julie Fitzpatrick – Horse Vibrational Coaching

Mandy Jiang – Student Coordinator

Live Performances:

Sunday, June 14, 7:30 PM – Faculty Concert at Graves Pavillion

Tuesday June 16, 7:30 PM – Student Bluegrass Jam at Graves Main Lodge

Thursday, June 18, 7:30 PM – Student Jazz Exploration Concert at Graves Main Lodge

Friday, June 19, 7:30 PM – Chamber Music Concert at Graves Main Lodge

Saturday, June 20, 7:30 PM – Kaleidoscope Concert at the Barn at Stony Brook

Sunday, June 21, 4:00 PM – Final Orchestra Concert

Eligible Students:

The program is open to advanced students ages 13 – 19 with demonstrated musical skills.

Student Supervision and Safety:

The Blue Ridge Center for Music and Creative Arts provides a safe, fun, and respectful environment for students where they can learn from outstanding faculty, progress at their own pace, and meet other aspiring artists in their age group. Safe and wholesome meals are provided at all programs and dietary restrictions will be accommodated. Supervision is provided by the faculty and by a designated Student Counselor who resides onsite 24 hours per day, monitors student activities, and is available to address any safety, wellness, or behavioral issues that arise. Please contact the Executive Director, Earle Martin (earlemartin3101@gmail.com) if you have questions or need additional information.

Fees:

All costs for this program, including instruction, food, and lodging are underwritten by the Blue Ridge Center for Music & Creative Arts with full scholarships provided for all accepted students. Donations to the Center by parents of accepted students, as well as the entire community, are encouraged and welcomed.

Registration:

To participate in the workshop, each student must submit an application. Click the Apply button below to submit your application.  Please contact us at info@blueridgecenterarts.com if you have questions.