Lutheran Summer Music

For over 40 years, high school students from Lutheran churches and schools around the country have gathered each summer for Lutheran Summer Music. Launched in 1981, Lutheran Summer Music is a faith-based residential music academy, and is open to any student who has completed grades 8-12. For the past 30 years, LSM has met on the campus of Valparaiso University. At LSM, students immerse themselves in joyful music making and build a supportive and welcoming community, living together on the university campus. The experience transforms lives and connects people through faith and music, as well as celebrates our Lutheran faith tradition.

During the day, students receive advanced musical instruction through large ensemble rehearsals, chamber music rehearsals, private lessons with college-level faculty from all over the country, and elective classes. In the evenings, students attend recitals and Evening Prayer services based in historical Lutheran liturgy. There are also plenty of social events and time with other students and friends.

Students are nominated by someone in their church or school (music teacher, choir director, pastor, etc.) to receive an invitation to attend Lutheran Summer Music. This summer, St. Peter’s Lutheran School had a student attend LSM! Lailah Castillo-Arreola, who graduated from St. Peter’s in May, was nominated and accepted the invitation to attend the 4-week program. Being an excellent singer, as well as a low brass player, Lailah had the unique opportunity to further her musical gifts through the program. She in turn will use these gifts to glorify the Lord in her church and the community.

Next year’s LSM will take place June 21-July 19, 2026 on the campus of St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. If you know of a music student who would benefit from attending LSM, please let me know and I would be happy to nominate them!