Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ

Q: How do I get to RRMC?
A: If you are traveling by airplane, you’ll need to fly into Denver International Airport. From there you can ride a shuttle to RRMC. Estes Park Shuttle provides service directly to our campus, but you need an advance reservation. It is the responsibility of the parents and students to reserve a ride on the shuttle. For driving directions from the airport or other parts of Colorado, please see our location page.

Q: How long does it take to drive from Denver International Airport to Rocky Ridge Music Center?
A: If driving yourself or riding the shuttle, count on about 1 ½ hours.

Q: We are staying in Estes Park while our child is attending RRMC. Are there campgrounds or hotels nearby?
A: If you’d like to camp in a tent, we are within walking distance from the Longs Peak Campground, which fills up quickly during hiking season. The website www.estesnet.com is a great source of information for finding lodging and discovering what the area has to offer its visitors. Keep in mind that Estes Park is a resort town, and unlike ski resorts, the busy time here is summer!

Q: What kind of housing do students live in?
A: We have 38 cabins on our campus, some of which are student housing. Most students will live in a rustic log cabin with bunk beds and 2-5 roommates their age. Students under 18 will also live with a counselor age 20 or older. Cabins have dresser drawers and rods for clothing storage. There is a women’s shower house close to the women’s cabins, and a men’s shower house close to the men’s cabins. We have strict rules pertaining to cabins and curfew to protect the privacy and quiet-time needs of every student. For socializing, there are common areas away from student housing open to all.

Q: What is the altitude of RRMC and how should I prepare for it?
A: We live at 9300 feet above sea level! Most students require some adjustment period, even those coming from the Denver area at about 5300 feet. The most important things to remember are to drink a lot of water and to slow down until you adjust. There is no reason to feel embarrassed if you can’t keep up with friends at first, or if you have to stop to catch your breath frequently. Coming to a high altitude from sea level all in one day is a big adjustment. After you spend a night or two here your body will be mostly acclimated. You’ll be breathing better and moving at a more normal pace. Even so, you’ll need to continue drinking plenty of water your entire stay to avoid headaches, nausea or dehydration.

Q: What recreational opportunities will I have?
A: Recreational activities will vary from session to session, but you can count on a hike or two! Hiking is a great way to see and enjoy the Rocky Mountains without extra cost or a lot of equipment. All you need are a sturdy pair of shoes (tennis shoes are usually fine), a jacket, a water bottle and a realistic idea of what level you can handle. We offer guided hikes for the beginner on up. If you aren’t ready to climb to the summit of Longs Peak, you can join most other students in an easy to moderate hike. Other recreation possibilities may include horseback riding, shopping in town, swimming, fishing, basketball or volleyball .

Q: How do I get my clothes washed?
A: YAS students take a bus into town once a week to do laundry. You’ll need money for the machines. JSS students will need to bring enough clothing to last through the session.

Q: What is the weather like?
A: Days are usually sunny and warm, but rarely hot. Evenings and nights are clear and cool. It is not uncommon to see snow in June or August, but typically these “storms” are short and the snow melts quickly. Since we see a 20-30 degree temperature difference each 24 hour period, layered clothing is always advisable. At this high altitude, the sun’s UV rays are especially strong, so sunscreen is a must!

Q: How much practice time do I get?
A: Most students find ample time to practice. We recommend about three hours a day for YAS students, and 1-2 hours each day for JSS students. You will be able to figure out when your best time to practice is once you have your class and rehearsal schedule.

Q: How do I get into a chamber ensemble?
A: Faculty will place you in a small chamber ensemble based on your application audition and placement audition, performed the day you arrive at camp.

Q: How do I enter the concerto competition?
A: Please see our concerto competition page for guidelines and application.

Q: What financial aid is available?
A: Students in the YAS program may apply for work-study; students over age 20 may apply to be a counselor; and merit scholarships are awarded based on auditions. For more detailed information and an application, please visit our financial aid page.

Q: Are cell phones and other electronics allowed?
A: We allow, and even recommend, cell phones for travel safety. However, most will not work at camp since we are surrounded by the mountains of Rocky Mountain National Park. We do use a wireless router from our internet service, so laptops are accessible throughout camp. There is also a computer for student use located in the lodge, and a payphone on campus. The office phone can be used by students in an emergency.