Discovering Their Sound: Orangehaus Music Business Camp Helps Students Follow Their Dreams

BY ERIN BURKETT ’20

2 MIN. READ 

For young musicians with big dreams, summer is more than a break from school—it’s an opportunity to grow, create, and prepare for the future. At Anderson University, Orangehaus Music Business Camp offers high school students the chance to do just that, through an immersive week of hands-on learning, collaboration, and performance.

Hosted on AU’s campus, the camp welcomes students entering grades 9–12 who are passionate about music—whether they’re performers, songwriters, aspiring producers, or simply curious about how the music industry works. Throughout the week, campers get a behind-the-scenes look at music business essentials: studio recording, stage performance, music promotion, and artist management.

“As a student, the camp really brought me out of my comfort zone and pushed me as a musician,” says Cassie Bone, a rising AU junior who has experienced the camp as both a student and a counselor. “It’s where I discovered a love for performing rock music—and I made some amazing connections that I never would have made if it weren’t for that camp.”

In addition to writing and rehearsing music, students have the chance to record original songs, build confidence on stage, and gain valuable insight into the industry from professionals and AU faculty. Campers are placed into a band they will rehearse, grow, and jam with all week. The experience culminates in a high-energy “battle of the bands” performance that showcases the creativity and progress of each group.

The camp is rooted in the same principles that define Anderson University’s nationally recognized music business program—small class sizes, close mentorship, and meaningful real-world experiences.

“Music business students serve as the counselors and sometimes even guest instructors,” shares Dr. Becky Chappell, longtime director of Orangehaus Music Business Camp and AU’s director of music business studies. “Our students get to implement what they are learning in school, and they relate to the campers so well.”

Dr. Chappell brings decades of experience as a performer, educator, and innovator to the program. She also founded Orangehaus Records and Orangehaus Publishing, providing AU students with hands-on industry exposure during the academic year.

“What initially attracted me to the program—and AU as a whole—was the small teacher-student ratio,” Bone explains. “At AU, I would have a much more personalized education with lots of hands-on experience in the studio. Professors genuinely care about their students and would do anything to help them succeed.”

That supportive environment carries over into the summer camp, where students are encouraged to try new things, collaborate with peers, and find their creative voice.

“Open mic nights are a huge part of the experience,” says Chappell. “The campers have an opportunity to share their sound and support one another.”

First launched in 2008, the camp empowers young, independent artists in a welcoming and engaging environment. In addition to music-making, students participate in field trips, outdoor concerts, pool parties, and other community-building activities. The week wraps up with an awards ceremony, recognizing students who have shown excellence and growth.

“The camp really lights a fire under these students,” Chappell adds. “We hear so many stories from past campers who have grown so much in their music, and this week has truly just been the first step for them.”

“It truly was such an amazing experience, and I wish every student in music could experience something like it,” Bone says. “As a counselor, it was also amazing to be on the other side of that—watching students grow throughout the week, both as musicians and as people.”

Whether campers go on to study music in college or simply want a taste of what’s possible in the industry, Orangehaus Music Business Camp is a powerful step toward discovering what’s next. They will find an engaging community, ready to support them every step of the way. They will find their tribe.

“If there is any school to study the music business, it’s AU,” Bone says. “Our smaller program allows students to have so many more opportunities than most schools offer.”

Students who are specifically interested in mastering the guitar will be shredding in no time after Orangehaus Guitar Camp, taking place June 16-21. Music Business Camp is June 22-28.

Anderson University educates students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 50 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 18 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult, graduate, and online programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized for excellence in business, computer science, cybersecurity, engineering, music, nursing, psychology, and teacher education programs. Established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God, the university remains committed to its Christ-centered mission.