best music programs in Madison, WI

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

Since 1965, CTM has been a Madison institution offering exceptional family-friendly theatre productions. We are dedicated to making theatre accessible to all ages, backgrounds, and abilities by providing diverse programming, varying price points (including free activities), and by collaborating with other organizations. Our home for over 30 years has been the Overture Center (previously the Madison Civic Center). At CTM, education is at the heart of what we do. Our year-round program enrolls 1,100 students per year, and includes classes for pre-K through grade 12. We also partner with Goodman Community Center and Lussier Community Education Center to provide free after-school theatre classes to children from lower-income families. Through this, students develop a sense of pride in their accomplishments, a stronger sense of community, and an appreciation for literacy. Our two in-school residency programs, Young Playwrights and Young Playwrights for Change, provide an opportunity for high school and middle school students to showcase their new works annually at the Young Playwrights Festival. CTM is an anchor partner of the Madison Youth Arts Center, a 65,000 sq.ft. facility that provides a permanent home for both CTM and Madison Youth Choirs, as well as space for other local youth arts organizations at an affordable cost. We are proud to continue our mission of making theatre accessible and providing educational opportunities to the community.

ARTS for ALL Wisconsin, an affiliate of the Very Special Arts (VSA) program of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, was founded in 1974 with the mission of creating a society where people with disabilities could learn through, participate in, and enjoy the arts. The organization started with a one-day festival for school-aged children in 1977 and was incorporated in 1985. After that, ARTS for ALL Wisconsin quickly moved to initiate ongoing programming leading into the festivals. This was done with the aim of integrating people with disabilities into the mainstream, providing them with an outlet for creative expression and the opportunity for personal, academic, and professional success. Today, the organization continues to provide effective and well-loved arts programs for people with disabilities throughout Wisconsin. ARTS for ALL Wisconsin is unique in that it provides statewide, in-depth, and comprehensive programming across the full spectrum of arts activities and disabilities.

Our commitment to free and equitable access to cultural and educational experiences, and our celebration of ideas, promotes creativity and connects people. At Madison Public Library, visitors can explore and discover a wealth of resources, including books, movies, music, magazines, databases, tools and more. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are available to help patrons find what they need and provide access to materials and services to meet their educational, cultural, and recreational needs. From toddler storytimes to after-school programs to online classes, Madison Public Library offers something for everyone. The library also hosts events for all ages, from special guest speakers and author visits to film screenings and concerts. Whether you are looking to learn something new, find a book to read, or just need a quiet place to work, Madison Public Library is your place to learn, share, and create. Visit us today and see why Madison Public Library is your partner in learning and discovery!

For more than 145 years, Madison Public Library has been a pillar in the Madison community, promoting education, literacy, and involvement. With nine locations throughout the city, the library welcomes nearly 2 million visits a year, and is open six days a week with limited Sunday hours. The library is run by a nine-member Library Board of Directors appointed for three-year terms by the Mayor of Madison, and functions under the aegis of Chapter 43 of the Wisconsin Statutes. It works in conjunction with the Mayor, Library Director Greg Mickells and staff, and the Madison Common Council to carry out its mission in the community. Madison Public Library is a valuable resource for the families of Madison. It provides a safe, inviting, and educational environment for all members of the community and continues to strive towards its mission of promoting education, literacy, and community involvement.

The Madison Ballet is the resident ballet company of the Overture Center for the Arts and Wisconsin’s second largest dance organization. Through their work, they bring world-class ballet to the greater Madison area, training the next generation of world-class dancers and inspiring all generations of audiences. They offer opportunities to experience the power of dance, on and off the stage, for all ages, genders, and races. Madison Ballet pioneers change within its community, introducing and creating a culture of connection, collaboration, and change that touches the lives of over 20,000 people each year. They provide an invaluable, enriching arts experience, and strive for growth for their community by providing access, engagement, and exposure to ballet. Through their work, they strive to eliminate boundaries and build a better community through their art.

For 145 years, Madison Public Library has been a cornerstone of the City of Madison. With nine branches located throughout the city and open six days a week (with limited Sunday hours), MPL prides itself on promoting education, literacy and community involvement. Over two million visits are welcomed every year, providing Madison residents with access to books, computers and a variety of programs and resources. From story times for children to courses for adults, MPL is a source of knowledge and enrichment for the entire community.

The Monkey Business Institute is an incredible collection of over thirty-five funny folks. Each of them brings to the stage a unique set of skills and years of experience in improv, acting, music, stand-up comedy, film-making, and voice-acting. Many of our members have been performing together since 2002, some for even longer. With such an impressive array of talent, you're guaranteed to laugh every time. The members of Monkey Business Institute are more than just funny faces. Many are parents and one is a grandparent. This adds an extra layer of hilarity to the performance, as the cast brings their life experiences to the stage. With so much knowledge and expertise, it's no wonder this troupe is the most experienced and talented improv comedy company in the United States. For the best in improv comedy, you can trust Monkey Business Institute. Find out more on their Wikipedia page. If you're looking for the best in improv comedy, then Monkey Business Institute is the perfect choice. This group of over thirty-five talented individuals is made up of experienced professionals from a variety of backgrounds. From improv to stand-up comedy, acting to film-making, music to voice-acting, there's something for everyone. What's more, many of the members have been performing together since 2002, so you know you're in for a great show. Plus, with parents and grandparents in the cast, you can expect a unique, family-friendly performance. So don't miss your chance to laugh with the most experienced and talented improv comedy company in the United States – Monkey Business Institute!

We recognize the power of collaboration and partnership, and believe in the importance of nurturing relationships across disciplines. We understand the value of the creative practitioner, and are committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment for creativity to thrive. We strive to provide access and opportunity to all who come to the Arts + Literature Laboratory, no matter their background or experience. At the Arts + Literature Laboratory, our commitment to fostering creative expression and innovation is relentless. We facilitate dynamic experiences that bring together diverse communities, advancing the exploration of intersectional identities and cultural practices. We are dedicated to creating an environment of accessibility, equity, and justice for artists, writers, and audiences alike. We invite you to join us on a journey of discovery, exploration, and celebration of the arts.

At the Early Childhood Program, we strive to deliver a quality Christian education to the children in our community. Our program is designed to teach kids about God’s Word and the Good News about Jesus, while providing a nurturing environment that helps them grow spiritually, emotionally, intellectually, and physically. We believe that by equipping our students for future service to the Lord at school, home, and beyond, we are helping to shape the next generation of believers.

little om BIG OM brings fun yoga and mindfulness classes to kids & families around the Madison-area! We bring our mobile program to studios, schools, libraries, camps and other locations around the community. Our team of talented instructors use playful and creative activities to teach the many asanas (poses) of yoga and principles of mindfulness to kids of all ages. We feel strongly that exploring yoga should be a positive experience for kids, and it is our goal to introduce our students to skills and strategies that can help them on and off the mat! A yoga practice can increase awareness and focus, improve physical fitness and posture, improve breathing techniques, reduce stress and increase confidence, and we love offering kids opportunities to benefit in these ways at a young age. Kids love our classes because learning new ways to use their bodies and minds is exciting and rewarding, and we love seeing our students building confidence in themselves!

Our students thrive in the welcoming and supportive atmosphere we provide. We are committed to helping our students reach their individual goals, whether that is mastering a difficult piece of music, learning to play in an ensemble, or mastering the fundamentals of music theory. With our comprehensive approach to musical education, our students become true artists, capable of expressing themselves through their instrument and developing a lifelong appreciation for music.