Age Restrictions

The Aspen Music Festival and School is open to musicians of any age and at any stage of their career. However, the intensity of the professional performance schedule and the exacting standards of quality make Aspen most appropriate for the serious, dedicated musician. The age restriction applies to students under the age of 18 as of the start date of the student’s program. 

HOUSING

Students under the age of 18 may not live in AMFS residence halls. If a student is under the age of 18 at the start of their program, the AMFS requires a parent / legal guardian (or approved summer guardian) to be in residence in an off-campus residence with their student for the entire session in which the student is enrolled. If the parent(s)/legal guardian(s) choose to grant permission to a summer guardian, the summer guardian must be at least 21 years of age and cannot be an AMFS student, artist-faculty, or staff member.  

The Underage Student Agreement must be submitted to the Vice President and Dean of Students and must include a statement signed by the parent/legal guardian. If a summer guardian is granted, the Underage Student Agreement must also be signed by the summer guardian, stating that they will accept responsibility for the student. Each submission will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

Students living off campus are responsible for purchasing their own meals or a meal plan through the AMFS Dining Hall. For resources related to finding housing in Aspen, see Off-Campus Housing. 

ORCHESTRA 

All students 18 and older play in orchestra. Students under the age of 18 in the Orchestra/Instrumental program do not play in orchestra but have the opportunity to receive two 60-minute private lessons each week as well as engage in chamber music and additional performance opportunities including classes and recitals.  

CHAMBER MUSIC 

Students of all ages are welcome to audition for the Aspen Chamber Music program upon arrival at Aspen. Students are placed with others of similar ability who are assigned to the same orchestra. Students under age 18 will be placed with other students of similar age and ability who are not in orchestra. It may be recommended that younger or less-experienced players focus on private study or specially designed and limited exposure to chamber music. For more information, see AMFS Chamber Music.

UNDERAGE EXPERIENCE

Students have a great deal of freedom while attending the Aspen Music Festival and School. It is expected that those admitted under 18 must be responsible, mature, and self-motivated. There is limited social programming offered throughout the summer. Students must have the ability to structure their rehearsals, classes, and practice times without supervision. If supervision is required at any time, it must be provided by the parent/guardian.