Overview
The National Repertory Orchestra invites applications for their Summer Music Festival Timpani Fellowship. This 8-week program offers an exceptional opportunity to perform extensive orchestral repertoire alongside world-class conductors.
Fellowship Benefits
- Full Scholarship – Each musician receives a scholarship valued at $10,000, covering housing, travel stipend, food stipend, and additional support
- Extensive Repertoire – Perform more orchestral works than at any comparable festival
- Solo Opportunities – Featured solo performances at orchestral concerts
- Chamber Music – Develop interactive programs through the NRO’s Community Engagement initiative
- Professional Development – Masterclasses and sectionals with industry experts
- Distinguished Conductors – Work with Music Director Michael Stern and renowned guest conductors
2026 Conductors
Michael Stern (Music Director), Carl Topilow (Music Director Laureate), Leonard Slatkin, Carlos Miguel Prieto, Teddy Abrams, Jason Seber, and Damon Gupton.
2026 Repertoire Preview
- Beethoven: Symphony No. 3, “Eroica”
- Dvořák: Symphony No. 9, “From the New World”
- Copland: Symphony No. 3
- Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 3
- Stravinsky: Firebird Suite
- Mahler: Symphony No. 1, “Titan”
- Respighi: Pines of Rome
Festival Dates
The Summer Music Festival runs June 15 – August 8, 2026 (8 weeks). Musicians arrive in Breckenridge on Sunday, June 14 and depart on Sunday, August 9.
Application Fees & Deadlines
Early application is encouraged to secure the lowest fee:
- $40 – October 13 – November 30, 2025
- $75 – December 1, 2025 – January 15, 2026
- $125 – January 16 – January 25, 2026
All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Deadlines are 11:59 PM MST. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status in February 2026.
