orchestras

The Verbier Festival Junior Orchestra (VFJO) offers exceptional young musicians aged 15 to 18 a unique immersion in orchestral life. For three weeks at the heart of the Verbier Festival, nearly 60 instrumentalists from around the world discover the demands, energy and collaborative spirit of a symphony orchestra.

Under the direction of Music Director James Gaffigan and mentored by experienced musicians from major international orchestras, VFJO members develop as musicians through an intensive programme of rehearsals, sectional coaching and concerts.

the vfjo at a glance

• Nearly 60 musicians aged 15 to 18, selected internationally
• Three weeks of immersion in orchestral life at the heart of the Verbier Festival
• Two symphonic concerts and one opera at the Verbier Festival 2027
• Under the direction of Music Director James Gaffigan
• Artistic mentoring by experienced musicians from major international orchestras
• Sectional coaching, orchestral rehearsals and concerts
• Artistic training fully covered by the Verbier Festival
• Accommodation covered by the Verbier Festival
• Contribution of CHF 1,500 towards meal and supervision costs
• Working language: English

auditions

Applicants can choose between an in-person audition and a video audition. Both audition modes are evaluated according to the same criteria.

In-person auditions will take place in Berlin, Geneva, London, New York, Paris, Vienna and Zurich. Percussionists are recruited via video audition only.

Are you 18?
Musicians aged 18 on July 1, 2027, can apply to the VFJO or the Verbier Festival Orchestra (VFO). Consult both programmes to determine which best fits your background and experience.

repertoire 2027

In 2027, over the course of three weeks, the VFJO performs two symphonic concerts and an opera. Repertoire highlights include:

PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY
Symphony No. 5

BÉLA BARTÓK
Concerto for Orchestra

JOAQUÍN RODRIGO
Concierto de Aranjuez

RICHARD WAGNER
Das Rheingold

music director

James Gaffigan

James Gaffigan has a long-standing relationship with the VFJO, having conducted it from its very first edition, when it was known as the Verbier Festival Music Camp. As Music Director of the VFJO, he will conduct all three of the orchestra’s concerts at the Verbier Festival 2027.

coaches 2027

Throughout the programme, VFJO musicians benefit from mentoring by experienced musicians, through sectional coaching, orchestral rehearsals and individual sessions.

supervision

VFJO participants are supervised throughout the programme by a dedicated team, in partnership with Altitude, a specialist in international youth camps in Verbier.

Musicians are divided into small groups, each accompanied by a designated supervisor. Each group is housed together and takes meals together, in an environment designed to ensure the well-being and safety of participants throughout their stay.

English is the working language and the primary language of communication for the VFJO.

code of ethics

The Verbier Festival is committed to providing a training and working environment based on respect, dignity, equality and safety for all. All participants are required to adhere to the principles of the Festival’s Code of Ethics, which prohibits all forms of violence, harassment and discrimination and encourages responsibility, collaboration and mutual respect.