Verbier Festival Junior Orchestra 2027: Global Auditions for Musicians Aged 15–18
The Verbier Festival Junior Orchestra (VFJO) has opened international auditions for its summer 2027 programme in Switzerland, running from 11 July to 2 August 2027. Nearly 60 musicians aged 15–18 as of 1 July 2027 are selected for three weeks of intensive orchestral rehearsals, sectional mentoring and performances. Music director James Gaffigan oversees the training programme, which is designed for younger players than the separate Verbier Festival Orchestra (VFO) academy.
Two audition options and strict deadlines
Live audition application: submit by 14 December 2026 at 23:59 Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Video audition application: submit by 11 January 2027 at 23:59 EST.
Harp and percussion applicants use video audition only.
English is the common instructional language; all applicants need to demonstrate fluent spoken English.
Both auditions are judged by the same criteria, but different instruments may have different required repertoire and openings. Applicants should check the current VFJO instrument list and read the playing instructions before recording. The organisation uses the GetAcceptd online application platform, which processes the fee by credit card.
Who qualifies?
Applicants may hold any nationality and must be aged 15–18 on 1 July 2027. Under-18 applicants must provide written consent from a parent or legal guardian in English. Required documents include passport or identity document, relevant study and teacher history, a headshot, CV, and a short spoken English self-introduction explaining musical motivations. If accepted, participants must commit to the full programme from arrival on 11 July to departure on 2 August.
Application and participation costs
The 2027 application fee is €55, non-refundable. The Festival lists an exemption route for Swiss citizens born or resident in specific cantons; proof has to be sent before the application is paid, and waiver requests have separate advance deadlines. The VFJO is not automatically identical to the fully supported VFO programme: earlier published VFJO rules mention a participation contribution of CHF 1,500, but candidates should check the 2027 financial terms on the official guidelines or ask the organiser before accepting a place. Never assume the €55 application charge represents the complete cost of participation, travel and accommodation.
What students gain
VFJO members develop orchestral teamwork under professional conductors and musicians from leading orchestras, tackling concert repertoire in a cross-cultural setting. This is a substantial residential educational commitment, rather than a cash-prize online contest. Families should account for travel, passport, minor permissions, insurance and possible participation charges when planning.
Established organiser and official sources
The Verbier Festival, founded in Switzerland in 1994, operates a number of internationally recognised artist-development programmes. The Junior Orchestra lists its music director, coaches, programme dates and recruitment guidelines publicly. Candidates should use those first-party sources rather than third-party advertisements that confuse the junior and senior orchestras.
Official VFJO 2027 programme page: https://verbierfestival.com/en/orchestras/vfjo/
2027 VFJO eligibility, auditions and fee-waiver conditions: https://verbierfestival.com/en/orchestras/vfjo/vfjo-guidelines/
Information verified 24 October 2026. International applicants welcome. Distinct programme from VFO; ages 15–18. Confirm the current season's final participant costs directly before paying.