Aspen Music Festival and School

A Symphony in the Mountains

The Aspen Music Festival and School (AMFS), a jewel in the crown of classical music, has been a focal point of musical excellence and education since its founding in 1949 in Aspen, Colorado. This prestigious eight-week summer festival boasts a rich array of over 400 classical music events, drawing a crowd of over 70,000 annually. The festival’s diverse program features orchestral concerts, solo and chamber music, opera productions, and educational activities, including master classes and lectures, catering to a wide range of audiences.

The festival’s roots can be traced to a celebration of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in 1949, organized by Walter and Elizabeth Paepcke. This event, combining intellectual forums and musical performances, laid the groundwork for what would become the AMFS. The festival quickly gained momentum, with notable conductors like Igor Stravinsky presenting their works, and by 1951, the school officially began educating its first class of music students.

Under the leadership of Alan Fletcher (President and CEO) and Robert Spano (Music Director), AMFS continues to foster musical excellence. The festival serves as an educational hub, attracting over 650 students from across the globe, providing them with the opportunity to learn and perform with renowned faculty.

The festival’s primary venue, the Benedict Music Tent, is an architectural wonder. Opened in 2000, it can accommodate 2050 guests and is known for its open design and Teflon-coated fiberglass roof. The nearby Joan and Irving Harris Concert Hall and the historic Wheeler Opera House are also integral to the festival’s offerings. In 2016, AMFS expanded its facilities with the Matthew and Carolyn Bucksbaum Campus, a state-of-the-art complex designed to blend seamlessly with Aspen’s natural landscape, housing rehearsal halls, studios, and administrative offices.

The Aspen Music Festival and School stands as a testament to the enduring power and beauty of classical music. It merges tradition with innovation, offering both performance and education against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. As a hub for aspiring musicians and a destination for music lovers, AMFS continues to play a pivotal role in the cultural landscape, celebrating the timeless spirit of classical music.