YT-
I grew up in upstate New York. The summer before my senior year of high school I audition for Saratoga and sent tapes to Tanglewood and Interlochen. I got into Saratoga and Interlochen, but my Tanglewood tape got lost
It was a tough call, but I decided to go to Interlochen. It turned out to be the best choice I've ever made in my life. I got to hear great music from the students and world class staff, as well as visiting artists (I will never forget hearing Tchaik 5 with the Detroit Symphony in Kresge Auditorium).
I practiced my butt off at Interlochen and credit the success I had at my college auditions to that summer. I played in the Symphonic Band and had the time of my life, playing under conductors from around the country every week. There is also a Sunday morning brass choir (for those who get up early) that students and faculty sit side by side in.
I ended up going to Saratoga the next year. I'll admit my bias because of the incredible experience I had at Interlochen, but I just found that it didn't measure up. The nice thing about Saratoga is getting to hear the Philadelphia Orchestra on a regular basis, but the level of student music making wasn't near what it was at Interlochen.
I was never a student at Tanglewood, but I've heard good things about the BUTI program. At one point Frank Battisti was in charge of the Wind Ensemble there. He's a great conductor and does some great programming, so I'm sure you'd have a blast. You'll also get to hear the Boston Symphony on a regular basis. I'd definitely give that one a shot.
-Jimi