Background

Aspen Music Festival and School

A premier classical music festival and school in Aspen, Colorado, offering world-class performances and training in a stunning mountain setting.

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The Aspen Music Festival and School, founded in 1949, is a renowned classical music festival held annually in Aspen, Colorado. This eight-week summer program combines musical performances with training for young-adult music students. The festival hosts over 400 classical music events, including concerts, recitals, operas, and lectures.

A brief summary to Aspen Music Festival and School

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Take advantage of the free RFTA bus service to travel between festival venues and around Aspen.
  • Check the festival schedule for free events, including family concerts and master classes.
  • Arrive early for performances, as popular events can fill up quickly.
  • Consider attending an Opera Encounters performance at the Wheeler Opera House for a condensed opera experience.
  • Explore Aspen's natural beauty by walking or biking to festival events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Aspen, the Aspen Music Festival and School is a pleasant 15-20 minute walk. Head west on Main Street, then turn right onto N 3rd St. Continue north on 3rd St until you reach the Meadows campus. The music tent and concert hall will be visible from there.

  • Public Transport

    The Roaring Fork Transit Authority (RFTA) provides free bus service within the city of Aspen. Several RFTA routes serve the Aspen Music Festival and School. Check the RFTA website or call 970-925-8484 for specific routes and schedules. The buses will drop you off close to the main venues.

  • Driving

    If driving, take Highway 82 into Aspen. Follow signs to the Aspen Music Festival and School. Free parking is available in the main parking lot on Gillespie Ave. If the lot is full, free parking is allowed on the surrounding side streets.

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Discover more about Aspen Music Festival and School

The Aspen Music Festival and School (AMFS) is a celebrated classical music festival and educational institution nestled in the scenic Rocky Mountains of Aspen, Colorado. Founded in 1949, the AMFS has grown into a leading destination for both established and aspiring classical musicians. The festival's roots trace back to the Goethe Bicentennial Convocation and Music Festival, which successfully combined intellectual forums with musical performances. This event's success led to the establishment of the Aspen Institute and the Aspen Music Festival and School. Each summer, the festival presents over 400 events, including orchestral concerts, chamber music, recitals, fully staged opera productions, master classes, and lectures. These events take place in various venues, such as the Michael Klein Music Tent and Harris Concert Hall. The school, established in 1951, provides training to over 600 students from around the world. The eight-week program offers a diverse curriculum, including individual lessons, master classes, and performance opportunities. Students have the chance to perform alongside world-renowned artists and conductors, gaining invaluable experience. The AMFS has a long list of distinguished alumni, including Joshua Bell, Renée Fleming, and James Levine. Beyond its musical offerings, the AMFS is deeply connected to the Aspen community. The festival features music with themes relevant to Aspenites and visitors and provides activities and performances for young people. Free transportation is available within the city of Aspen, making it easy for attendees to access festival venues.

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