Lifebook: What to Bring

Summer in western Massachusetts is typically mild and comfortable (average lows in the 50s and average highs in the 80s), but of course, temperature and humidity fluctuate. As Mark Twain once said, “If you don’t like the weather in New England, just wait a few minutes.” Be prepared for anything!

In Your Room

Remember that you will be sharing your living space, and it will be important to talk about your personal habits and preferences with your roommate. Residence facilities have a “camp” feel and, like most historic buildings in the area, are not climate controlled. Your room will be supplied with the following:

  • Bed frame and mattress
  • Dresser
  • Closet or wardrobe
  • Desk and chair
  • Wastepaper basket

Necessary Items to Bring

You are responsible for any valuable items you bring to campus, including your instrument(s). Some students choose to obtain instrument insurance in the event their instrument is damaged. Examples of instrument insurance include Clarion and MusicPro. BUTI does not endorse any specific insurance company. We also request that your instrument be in good working order prior to arrival.

  • Recital Performance Attire (please see below)
  • Cellular telephone with data plan (Please see information regarding Internet & Wi-Fi at BUTI).
  • Music stand (required for YAO and YAWE students)
  • Bed sheets (extra-long twin, 80 inches)
  • Pillowcases, pillows, and mattress pad
  • Blankets, comforter
  • Bath towels
  • Shower caddy
  • Fan, no more than 15” in diameter (BUTI residence halls are not air conditioned)
  • Plastic case for protecting music from rain
  • Athletic gear for outdoor activities
  • Air-tight storage container for snacks
  • Water bottle
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • Desk lamp (optional)
  • Flashlight
  • Rain gear/umbrella
  • Outlet adapter (to adapt to two-prong outlets)
  • Quarters for laundry

Concert Performance Attire

Please bring the following concert and/or recital attire.

Two-Week Workshops, Composition, and Piano Programs

  • Option 1: Recital attire including dress shirt, dress pants, shoes/socks/belt, and tie encouraged. Tuxedos not required.
  • Option 2: Recital attire including dress blouse/shirt, dress skirt/pants, close-toed dress shoes with a flat or minimal heel.

Young Artists Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Vocal, and Harp Programs

Students must bring both concert attire and recital attire, as described below.

  • Option 1: Concert attire including black suit or tuxedo, black bow tie, long-sleeved white dress shirt, black dress shoes, black socks. And recital attire including dress shirt, dress pants, shoes/socks/belt, and tie encouraged.
  • Option 2: Concert attire including solid white ankle-length dress or skirt/pants (white denim not allowed) and white blouse, white, close-toed, dress shoes with flat or minimal heel, white stockings. And recital attire including dress blouse/shirt, dress skirt/pants, close-toed dress shoes with a flat or minimal heel.

Not Allowed

Please do not bring any of the following items.

  • Irons
  • Candles and incense
  • Drugs or alcohol of any kind
  • Televisions sets, VCRs, DVD players, and video equipment
  • Heating and food preparation devices (i.e., hot pots, coffeemakers)
  • Refrigerators
  • Electric blankets
  • Air conditioners
  • Torchère-style halogen lamps
  • Space Heaters