Discover music, nature and mountain living in a program designed to expose young musicians (between ages 10 to 14) to the many facets of music. Modeled after our Young Artist Seminar (YAS), this program introduces students to a broad spectrum of musical education while carefully maintaining a balance of study, performance and supervised recreational activities.
Exposure to a variety of musical experiences will help each student develop those areas of special interest during the coming years. There are two sessions available. Students may attend one seminar or both for greater exposure and advancement.
The twelve-day Junior Student Seminar offers young students of all orchestral instruments and piano a unique educational experience. Students are given the opportunity to explore their natural talents and abilities, while carefully maintaining a balance of musical study, performance, and extra-curricular activities.
What is a typical day like?
We keep busy. Here's a typical schedule. There is a good mix of music and recreation.
7:30 AM Breakfast
8:00 AM Practice/Theory/Lessons/Wind Ensemble
12:30 PM Lunch
1:15 PM Orchestra/Mini-Class
3:00 PM Recreation
5:30 PM Dinner
6:30 PM Choir
7:30 PM Performance Class
8:30 PM Snacks/Recreation
9:45 PM Lights Out
Also, during the afternoon, there may be sectional rehearsals for orchestral musicians or chamber music practice. For daily mid-afternoon recreation, students are given a choice of activities either on-campus or in the nearby town of Estes Park. After dinner, activities include a performance class and group recreational activities. The evening concludes with our traditional camp song and a snack before bedtime.
To guide your child through a terrific experience in the mountains, our fantastic counseling staff enriches the program with special individual skills in music, education, recreation and outdoor activities. These adults, many of whom are parents of JSS students, live in a cabin with students and provide leadership for the student body. They also help the students remember their schedules, responsibilities, and bedtime! Ten to fifteen staff positions are available each summer. In return for their contributions to our program, one student is credited with substantial financial assistance.
If you are nervous about your child being away from home for the first time come explore Estes Park yourself. Our twelve-day sessions will fit well with your family's vacation plans. The nearby resort town of Estes Park offers a variety of family recreational activities. There is something for everyone to enjoy in this gorgeous mountain setting while your child is at Rocky Ridge.
Arrival and Departure
Registration begins at 2:00 P.M. on opening day. Students are to check out of their cabins following the orchestra/choir concert on the final day of the session. Special arrangements may be made for those whose travel plans necessitate staying until the following morning. However, a charge will be incurred for the extra day.
No need to worry about transportation Estes Park provides transportation to and from the Denver. View Locations and Directions for more information.