Nestled in the heart of the International Peace Garden between North Dakota and Manitoba, the International Music Camp (IMC) is more than just a summer destination; it’s a transformative experience that fuses music, personal growth, and international friendship into one unforgettable week. Since its founding in 1956, IMC has offered thousands of young artists the opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of creativity, challenge, and community. At the helm of this extraordinary program are Camp Directors Tim and Christine Baumann, whose musical journey and vision are shaping the future of the camp and its students.
Tim Baumann’s passion for music was sparked at an early age, growing up in a household surrounded by instruments and encouragement. With a band director for a mother, music was woven into the fabric of everyday life. “I started taking piano lessons in 2nd grade and joined band in 5th,” Baumann shares. “Our family prioritized going to musical experiences when I was young.”
That early foundation launched him into a lifelong career in music education. After graduating with a degree in Instrumental Music Education from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire in 2008, Baumann taught music in Wisconsin and then spent a year teaching abroad in Hong Kong. His global teaching experience added new depth to his understanding of the power of music as a universal language.
Eventually, Tim and his wife, and co-director, Christine, took the reins at IMC, a decision that reshaped their lives and the lives of countless students. Today, they also perform in the Minot Symphony Orchestra and lead the Minot Community Concert Band, continuing their mission to spread music beyond the campgrounds.
The International Music Camp isn’t just about honing musical technique; it’s about cultivating human potential. With a diverse and dedicated teaching faculty, IMC hosts sessions ranging from concert band, choir, and jazz studies to music composition, art, theatre, and even digital media. Students learn directly from professionals who are active performers, educators, and mentors.
“The atmosphere and community at IMC is unlike anything else,” Baumann says. “Campers are surrounded by other engaged musicians and artists in every activity, whether it’s in the breakfast line, a large group rehearsal, art class, or an individual lesson.”
This constant engagement fosters a sense of belonging and inspiration that many students carry for life. Baumann recalls one of his favorite success stories, not of a single musical triumph, but of courage sparked through experience. “When we decided to leave our teaching jobs in Chippewa Falls to teach abroad, our students took it hard. But many of them followed our lead and studied or worked abroad themselves. I’m incredibly proud of them for being brave enough to explore the world.”
IMC’s mission extends beyond producing the next great soloist or symphony conductor. The camp emphasizes both personal growth and musical growth.
“IMC makes stronger musicians and artists, but it also makes stronger and more resilient people,” says Baumann. Through collaboration, mentorship, and even failure, students leave camp equipped with life skills that go far beyond their instruments.
Campers learn how to meet new people, overcome performance anxiety, and experience success and failure with dignity. Perhaps most importantly, they know how to see the world from someone else’s perspective. In a time where empathy and cultural understanding are more vital than ever, IMC’s international setting and diverse student body set the stage for meaningful global friendships.
IMC is continually evolving. “We are always working to improve our experience and the facilities we use,” Baumann explains. “In the future, all of our campers should expect to work with world-class teaching faculty in a beautiful setting while meeting other young artists and musicians from around the world.”
That commitment to growth ensures that IMC remains not only relevant but cutting-edge. Whether it’s enhancing digital media programs, expanding visual arts, or deepening connections with educators and alumni, IMC’s leadership remains dedicated to keeping the camp fresh, inspiring, and accessible to all.
Every summer, campers from across North America and beyond arrive at the International Music Camp ready to challenge themselves. They leave not only with better technique and new repertoire, but with lifelong friendships, a deeper understanding of their craft, and a sense of who they are becoming.
For Director Tim Baumann, this is what camp is all about. “I love camp,” he says. “It’s such a joy to get to share this experience with campers from around the world. IMC has a huge impact on so many people.”
As music continues to connect hearts across cultures, IMC stands as a beacon of what happens when passion meets purpose, where the next generation of artists is not only trained but also transformed.
