• The Cortona Sessions Auditor/Groupie Program is open to both musicians and non-musicians wishing to experience the Sessions.

    The Auditor Program at the Cortona Sessions for New Music was created as a way to involve musicians who either:

    • wish to attend the Cortona Sessions but not be pressured with performance or composition requirements;

    • were not accepted as full participants because of space limitations, or;

    • want to learn and experience the festival but either cannot afford the full tuition, or prefer a less structured environment.

    Auditor performers are encouraged to bring their instruments and are welcome to perform in improv sessions and recitals if space is available during the festival. If a particular need for another performer should come up, they may be included in certain premiere performances. Auditor performers will not receive lessons or perform in masterclasses, but they may attend and participate in all festival sessions and observe lessons. For a small extra fee and if time permits, auditor performers may request lessons with Cortona Sessions faculty.

    Auditor composers may be able to present their work in participant show-and-tell sessions, attend all lectures, symposiums, and recitals, and may perform their own works on evening concerts should they desire to do so. Auditor composers will not be given premiere performances by performance participants. One of the most valuable aspects of attending as an auditor program is the opportunity to circulate your music and make wonderful friendships with performers and composers for the future.

    The Groupie Program is designated for any non-musicians attending the Sessions. This is largely for family and friends wishing to attend the concerts and experience Cortona. All groupies are invited to all Sessions activities and events.

  • deadline: February 1, 2025
    eligibility:  all people age 18 and over
    application fee: pay-what-you-can (suggested $35)
    tuition and lodging info here

    SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS

    no supplemental materials required; materials may be requested if you would like to perform.

  • We are prepared to offer up to a full-tuition scholarship for one or more applicants who can provide audio/visual documentation services and/or other technological support. Specific responsibilities in this role will be dependent on your previous experience and talents, and could include any combination of the following: photographic documentation of the Sessions, video documentation of concerts, audio engineering for concerts, technical support for rehearsals and classes, production management, and more. There is a section on the application to fill out if you would like to be considered; there, please submit a brief description of your previous experience in audio-visual documentation and/or music technology, and please include links to work samples.

    email all questions to: info@cortonasessions.org