Summer Programs
Music Therapy
We are excited to welcome Marissa Humburg of Southern Minnesota Music Therapy back to the Surf Ballroom Music Enrichment Center this summer. Marissa will be visiting the MEC on Mondays, June–August, from 9 AM to 3 PM.
To sign up for a time slot, please email Marissa at
southernminnesotamt@gmail.com.
Music Therapy uses the transformational power of music to work on developmental goals, socialization skills, and so much more. These sessions are specially designed for children with disabilities.
Location: Surf Ballroom Music Enrichment Center
Schedule: Mondays, June–August
Time: 9 AM – 3 PM
Register: Email Marissa Humburg at
southernminnesotamt@gmail.com
Registration Required
Cost: FREE
Instrument Petting Zoo
String, percussion, and keyboard instruments will be on display for students to gain hands-on experience with. Students learn where the instrument came from, how the instrument produces sound, and different playing techniques. Instruments from different cultures will also be featured for students to play and learn about.
Clear Lake Farmer’s Market
June 7th
9 AM – 12 PM
Central Gardens of North Iowa
June 20th
9 – 11 AM
Music Man Square
July 2nd
10 AM – 12 PM
Giddily Bo Diddley - Kid's Class
A developmental kid’s class for tots who are walking through the age of 5, along with their parents or caregiver. Children are introduced to musical concepts through singing, storytelling, games, movement, and more! Join the fun — you’re never too young or old to Rock ‘n’ Roll!
Location: Surf Ballroom
Dates: June 3 & 10 and July 15 & 22
Time: 10:00 – 10:45 AM
Ages: Toddlers who are walking through age 5
Note: Parent or supervisor must be present
Cost: FREE
Register: Call 641-357-6161 or email education@surfballroom.com
Drop-ins welcome
Beginner Guitar
Always wanted to learn guitar? Here is your chance! Instructors Bruce Ray & Roger Lasley will host beginner guitar classes throughout the Summer. These group style, relaxed classes are for new-beginner students to learn the basics of this beloved instrument. All students 12 years old and up are welcome. Learn some chords, get strumming and play some good old fashion Rock n’ Roll at the Surf Ballroom Music Enrichment Center this Summer!
Location: Surf Ballroom Music Enrichment Center
Schedule: Saturdays, June–July
Ages: 12 years old and up
Times:
9:30 – 10:30 AM (Beginner)
10:30 – 11:30 AM (Intermediate)
Cost: $120
Surf Scholarship Program Available
Register: Email education@surfballroom.com
Registration Required
OPUS Camp
Join us at the Surf Ballroom Music Experience Center for our exclusive Opus Camp, designed for young vocalists from 5th to 9th grades interested in auditioning for the ICDA Opus Honor Choir.* Over two action-packed days, students will sing in a fun, supportive environment while preparing their Opus audition music.
An Opus practice recording will be sent to each participant’s email, allowing students to continue preparing at home.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to work with skilled area vocal teachers and get ready to audition for Opus at the historic Surf Ballroom, where music and heritage create the perfect backdrop for learning and growth. Sign up today and let your voice soar!
*ICDA Opus Honor Choir auditions are offered at many of our north Iowa schools. If you are unsure if your school/teacher offers this opportunity, please reach out to him or her before registering your child for Opus camp.
Location: Surf Ballroom & MEC
Dates: August 5th & 6th
Times:
9–11 AM – Grades 5/6 & 9
1–3 PM – Grades 7/8
Cost: $50
Surf Scholarship Program Available
Register: Email – education@surfballroom.com
Registration Required
Surf Ballroom Master Class feat. Ralph Kluseman:
We are thrilled to present the Surf Ballroom’s Master Class, “Turning Your Passion into a Prosperous Business,” presented by Ralph Kluseman, President of the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Association Hall of Fame & Museum. Ralph brings a wealth of experience as a business counselor with the Northeast Iowa Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and as a celebrated musician and entertainer, proudly inducted into the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame. Join us for an enriching session that promises to enhance how you value and approach your work.
This Master Class is designed to empower students to approach their passions with a business mindset, teaching them the strategies for building a successful and sustainable career.
Class Overview:
- Redefining the ‘Starving Artist’: Challenge the stereotype and explore viable, profitable alternatives for artists.
- Recognizing Your Worth: Learn the importance of understanding and articulating your value in the marketplace.
- Negotiation Skills: Gain insights into effective techniques for negotiating contracts and fees that reflect your true value.
- Strategic Planning: Develop a clear, actionable business plan that serves as a roadmap for your career.
- Tools and Resources: Discover the tools and resources available to help manage and grow your business effectively.
- Real-Life Success Stories: Draw inspiration from examples of individuals who have successfully turned their artistic talents into thriving businesses.
This class is perfect for anyone looking to professionalize their artistic passion and learn the essentials of business and entrepreneurship within the creative sectors.
Location: MEC
Date: July 23rd
Time: 9:30 AM – 12 PM
Cost: $50
Surf Scholarship Program Available
Register: email education@surfballroom.com
Registration Required
Summer Reading Program
Visit your local library and check out some of their music themed books, sponsored by the Surf Ballroom! Summer reading partners for 2025 include Clear Lake, Garner, and Belmond Public Libraries.
Song Writing Session
Location: MEC
Date: July 30th
Time: 6–8 PM
Admission: Free Will Donation
Join some of North Iowa’s most talented songwriters for a workshop focused on songwriting, storytelling, music theory, and chord progression crafting! During these sessions, you’ll have the opportunity to hone your skills and find inspiration from fellow musicians. After a creative workshop, we’ll bring our new ideas to life in a collaborative jam session!
Traveling Museum
The Surf Ballroom’s traveling museum exhibit will be on tour this summer!
-
Warren Cultural Center
- June 16–August 4
-
Iowa State Fair
- Jacobson Exhibition Center
- August 7–17
