At Walden, classes are geared to the individual student. Improvisation and composition are the primary tools used to teach all aspects and levels of musicianship. Music history and literature courses, as well as private composition lessons are offered, and all students and faculty participate in The Walden School Chorus, which meets daily and gives a concert at the end of the session. Course offerings vary slightly each summer in accordance with the needs of the student body. All students receive instruction in Musicianship, composition, and chorus.
Instruction is available for all levels of musical development.
The curriculum is supplemented by weekly student Composers Forums and The Walden School Concert Series . The Walden School strives to maintain a healthy balance between intensive music studies and non-academic recreation and pursuits. Therefore weekly mountain hikes, swimming at nearby lakes, folk dancing, and intra-school sports are also a regular part of the program. The fifth week of Walden is Festival Week, during which the creative work of the summer is presented through concerts and forums open to the public. Parents and friends of students are encouraged to attend this special showcase week, which includes Composers Forums of student works moderated by a visiting guest artist, a choral concert, and a classwork demonstration.