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"When I was 6 years old, I took up piano lessons for the first time. Even at a young age, I felt the blessing of what life and music has to offer. Never in my life did I think going to a place like NRO would be possible. I'll always cherish what NRO has done for me and the future of classical music." Jordan Strominger, NRO bass trombone fellow |
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"I have dreamed of attending this festival for many years, and I would not be here for the summer without your help. I learned so much from the program and had the most amazing time with the NRO. This experience will stay with me for the rest of my life." Veronica Rokicki, NRO violin fellow |
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"The NRO challenged me in ways I never expected, helping me grow as both a musician and a person. Performing a wide range of repertoire alongside inspiring colleagues and being welcomed by such a supportive community made this summer an unforgettable experience. I felt supported every step of the way, and I'm leaving with lifelong memories, meaningful friendships, and valuable lessons that will stay with me throughout my career." Hyomin Lee, NRO flute fellow |
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"We cannot imagine being so proud of young adults who are not our children. We attended almost every concert, and the musicians actively looked to see if we were in the audience. The summer became so much more for us because these talented people played their hearts out and captured ours." 2026 Host Family |
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"After a decade with the National Repertory Orchestra, I could not be prouder of an organization that has meant so much to me. I’ve seen firsthand how the NRO helps young musicians grow in confidence, build lasting friendships, and take the next steps toward their dreams. Knowing that every musician receives a full scholarship makes this work even more meaningful to me. This Colorado Gives Day, I hope you’ll join me in supporting the NRO and the young artists who are the future of music. Åsa Armstrong, Former Director of Development, National Repertory Orchestra |
The National Repertory Orchestra is a preeminent intensive summer music festival developing diverse, thoughtful and socially conscious musicians through experiential learning. We inspire young musicians to be great leaders in their communities while Changing Lives Through Music!
Each summer, the National Repertory Orchestra (NRO) transforms Breckenridge into a hub of musical excellence and community connection. Over eight weeks, 80 outstanding young professional musicians from leading conservatories and universities perform more than 165+ concerts and events, with 86% offered free to the public. These performances reach tens of thousands of residents and visitors across Summit County, ensuring that the power of live orchestral music remains open and accessible to all.
Every musician accepted into the NRO receives a full, merit-based scholarship, removing financial barriers and ensuring that talent and potential—not resources—determine who participates. This investment empowers exceptional young artists to focus fully on their training, performances, and community engagement.
Beyond the stage, the NRO’s impact extends deeply into the community. Musicians visit local schools, libraries, and day camps—bringing music to life through interactive performances, classroom visits, and “instrument petting zoos.” In partnership with the NRO Alumni String Quartet, these educational programs inspire curiosity and creativity in Summit County’s youngest learners. This coming summer, we will launch the NRO Alumni Brass Quintet, which will build upon the success of the Alumni String Quartet and extend the NRO's educational outreach into community spaces.
For the musicians, the NRO is a bridge between conservatory and career, offering immersive professional training guided by Music Director Michael Stern and world-renowned guest conductors. Through intensive rehearsals, masterclasses, and performance opportunities, participants gain the real-world experience and confidence needed to thrive on the world’s stages.
Organization name
National Repertory Orchestra
other names
NRO, Blue Jeans Symphony Orchestra, Colorado Philharmonic
1960
Tax id (EIN)
84-0566793
Category
Education, Arts, Culture & Humanities
Organization Size
Large Organization
Address
PO Box 6336 111 S. Main Street #C7Summit County, CO, US
Breckenridge, CO, US, 80424
Dillon, CO, US
Frisco, CO, US
Silverthorne, CO, US