Aspen Music Festival and School

The Aspen Music Festival and School, established in 1949, is a renowned classical music festival held annually in Aspen, Colorado. It is celebrated for its diverse concert programming and its commitment to nurturing young musicians. The summer season, lasting eight weeks, features over 400 classical music events, including performances by multiple orchestras, solo and chamber music recitals, fully staged opera productions, master classes, lectures, and family programs. The winter season offers a smaller series of recitals and screenings of the Metropolitan Opera Live in HD.

The AMFS's mission is to serve as a leading institution for classical music education, performances, and presentations, aiming to be transformative and inspiring for all involved. It strives to be innovative and a catalyst for change in the world of music while respecting its rich traditions. Over 630 domestic and international music students attend the festival each year to participate in five orchestras, sing, conduct, compose, and study with accomplished artist-faculty members.

Notable alumni of the AMFS include violinists Joshua Bell, Sarah Chang, Midori, Gil Shaham, and Robert McDuffie; pianists Joyce Yang, Orli Shaham, Conrad Tao, Yuja Wang, and Wu Han; conductors Marin Alsop, James Conlon, Leonard Slatkin, and Joshua Weilerstein; composers William Bolcom, Philip Glass, David Lang, Augusta Read Thomas, Bright Sheng, and Joan Tower; vocalists Isabel Leonard, Jamie Barton, Sasha Cooke, Danielle de Niese, Renée Fleming, Dawn Upshaw, and Tamara Wilson; cellist Alisa Weilerstein; guitarist Sharon Isbin; bassist Edgar Meyer; and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

The AMFS has a rich history, having celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2019 with a theme of "Being...". Throughout its existence, the festival has been a beacon for classical music lovers and a pivotal training ground for aspiring musicians. Its impact on the classical music world is undeniable, as it has fostered the growth and development of countless talented artists who have gone on to make significant contributions to the field.