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 program start date for Full Session / Half Session I. 

AMFS does not have housing for students under the age of 18. Students under the age of eighteen must be accompanied and supervised in Aspen by a parent or guardian. Additionally, students under the age of eighteen and their guardians must find their own housing off-campus. For age restrictions related to housing, see On-Campus Housing.

ORCHESTRA 

All students 18 and older play in orchestra. Students under the age of 18 do not play in orchestra but have the opportunity to engage in private lessons, 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. Placement in chamber music is not guaranteed for any student and priority is not available to students attending Half Session. It may be recommended that younger or less-experienced players focus on private study or specially designed and limited exposure to chamber music.