Project Identity: Open Studios provides teens aged 14-18 with a unique opportunity to dive into the world of music and media within our creative studio environment. Participants can learn to play instruments or compose music electronically, make digital animations, and collaborate with peers in a supportive setting. More than just a creative arts program, PI Open Studios serves as a welcoming, safe space for youth to connect, express themselves, and grow after school hours.

Open Studios runs from March 4 to May 10 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6–8 PM and Saturdays from 12–4 PM at one of our two education buildings on the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts campus. Saturday attendance is required, as these sessions provide essential program information. Participants may choose to attend one or both Tuesday and Thursday evenings to work independently on projects with support from Teaching Artist staff.

Anyone between the ages 14 and 18.

There will always be at least 3 members of the Bethel Woods staff on site to mentor and teach our teen participants for the full duration of the program. These folks will include the programs primary Teaching Artist, guest lecturers, and Program Managers.

This program is FREE! Funding for Project: Identity at the Madeline and Glenn Friedman Lab has been provided in part by Madeline and Glenn Friedman, by way of PM Wealth Management, and by the William and Elaine Kaplan Family Foundations. Additional funding has been provided by Annelise Gerry and Family, the Rhulen Loughlin Family in memory of Trevor John Loughlin, the New York State Council on the Arts, with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, and by Bethel Woods Center for the Arts members and donors.

The Studios at Bethel Woods are equipped with all kinds of instruments (guitar, drums, keys), audio engineering software, digital design and animation software, and more. The program will be designed to offer introductory workshops in Music Production, and Digital Animation and Design. During Open Studio time, participants will explore creative tracks of their choosing, with talented Teaching Artists and trained staff to mentor them along the way.

Sure! You are welcome to choose a different learning track to unlock new skills or pursue your passions with an independent project guided by our supportive Teaching Artists.

The Saturday seminars, from 12–4 PM, are required. Students can choose Tuesday or Thursday evenings (or both) from 6–8 PM as their studio time.

Click the Apply Now button to tell us more about yourself and how to contact you. A member of our Education team will reach out to get you started. Applications must be completed for consideration and acceptance into the program.