Change young musicians' lives! Watch and enjoy the Boston Symphony Orchestra! Play in the Berkshires!
Boston University Tanglewood Institute (BUTI) is internationally recognized as a premier summer training program for aspiring young musicians (ages 14-20). In the presence of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO), students are immersed in an atmosphere of extraordinary music making fueled by high artistic standards, rigorous programming, and a rich legacy of learning and performance.
Located in the breathtaking heart of the Berkshires, centered in the rolling hills of Western Massachusetts. An hour from Albany, NY.
About Boston University Tanglewood Institute
At Boston University Tanglewood Institute (BUTI), we offer intensive music classes to young adults for college credit. We are located on 64 acres of rolling green spaces, roughly 1 hour from Albany, NY. In addition, we are surrounded by the culture and arts of the Berkshires. Within a 30-minute drive you can experience world-class performances in theater, dance, and music. You are also steps away from scenic hiking, biking, and camping.
We offer seasonal positions across a variety of departments including Academic Life, Student Life, and Operations. Our fast-paced work environment is creative, and our staff’s energy and teamwork translates to a supportive atmosphere where our students grow in confidence, community, and self. We strive to create a diverse and inclusive staff culture that is reflective of our student body. Come help change the lives of young musicians in a summer you’ll never forget!
The Employee Experience
What to Expect
Personally – You will meet people from all over the country and world who share similar interests and have a desire to spend quality time with young adults. You will test your personal limits and be surprised at what you are capable of doing. You will serve as a role model for young people and you can have a significant impact on their self-esteem and confidence.
Professionally – You will gain experience in the areas of leadership, communication, organization, teamwork, conflict resolution, risk management, and community building. Pre-season training sessions with include information on topics such as First-Aid and CPR response, safety, and working effectively with young adults.
Ideal Candidate
Our staff are essential to our program – they are with our students daily, and they help to lead and guide them through the program. We strive to create a safe and positive work environment that celebrates different skills and experiences. New perspectives contribute to the building of our students’ interpersonal skills, confidence, and independence.
We look for people who provide helpful customer service, can troubleshoot problems, and can be present, patient, and respectful during developing solutions. Additional desirable qualities include a sense of humor, a commitment to appropriate fun, resilience, stamina, and an appreciation for the healthy development of young adults.
You might be a great fit for a summer at BUTI if you could say yes to the following:
- I have an appreciation for music in all its formats.
- I like living in a community and enjoy helping others feel welcome.
- I can live with and appreciate a break from technology.
- I don’t mind getting dirty and I am willing to work hard.
- I’m not afraid to ask questions.
- I’m willing to share my talents and strengths.
- I can take responsibility and care for other people.
- I am open and able to listen to the students and help them feel valued.
- I enjoy meeting people from all over the world.
- I’m looking for new adventures and friendships.
Room and Board
Life in Lenox, MA:
- Employee housing is provided in either dormitory-style living (on-campus) or in shared houses (off-campus).
- Some on-site employee meals are included in your summer (cafeteria-style). Our kitchen staff can accommodate special diets.
- Complementary on-site laundry facility and Wi-Fi on campus are available
- First-Aid/CPR certification training will be provided.
- Staff T-Shirts will be provided.
Employee Perks
Benefits and Perks:
- One (1) complementary pass to the Tanglewood Lawn to view the Boston Symphony Orchestra for the entire summer.
- Employee discounts on retail goods.
- Access to hiking trails, swimming, and maintained campgrounds around the Berkshires.
- Fresh air, breathtaking views, and clear night skies
- World-class artistic zone to explore. Within a twenty-minute drive, you can enjoy Shakespeare in the Park (theater), Jacob's Pillow (dance), the Boston Symphony Orchestra (music), and more.
Getting Here and Getting Around
You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own car for the summer! Most of our staff are local to the Boston area and drive or carpool to Lenox. Others fly into the Albany International Airport (ALB) or take the train or bus to Pittsfield, MA. We can arrange a shuttle from both the Albany airport and the Pittsfield Train/Bus stop for anyone arriving from out of town if it is organized in advance. Parking is available on campus for anyone who would like to bring a car.
Our campus is about a 10-minute walk to the heart of Lenox, where you can easily access shops, farmers markets, food, and snacks. We are also within walking distance to the Tanglewood grounds where you can enjoy the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s performances. If you choose not to bring a vehicle or don't have access to one, there is minimal public transportation to help, and carpooling is common.
For Fun
Here are some highlights of things to do in and around the Lenox, MA area:
- Visit the Tanglewood Grounds and enjoy the Boston Symphony Orchestra!
- Hiking Trials in our own backyard (Mt. Graylock, Mt. Washington, Mt. Lenox)
- Shakespeare in the Park-Theater
- Jacob’s Pillow-Dance
- Norman Rockwell Museum
- Edith Wharton House and Grounds
- Basketball Hall of Fame-Springfield, MA
- Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden-Springfield, MA
- Visit the Chesterwood Estate
- Herman Melville’s Arrowhead House
- Learn at the Berkshire Museum
- Relax in the Berkshire Botanical Garden
- Hike the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
- Immerse yourself in the Lenox Art Walk
How to Apply
Make sure we're the right fit! Read through the information, on our website, and learn more about the BUTI experience.
Next, follow the link to fill out our online application. From there, we'll contact you for an interview!