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Ascent International Cello & Chamber Music Festivals

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The Ascent International Cello & Chamber Music Festivals are an opportunity for musicians age 14-30 to study in an intensive setting.  Ascent goes beyond the practice room to develop the musician as a whole. The festivals take place on the campus of the University of Cincinnati in the world-class facilities of the College-Conservatory of Music.  

Cello Festival: June 19 - June 25, 2023
Chamber Music Festival: June 25 - July 15, 2023


Admissions Deadlines:

  • February 1- Priority application and audition materials due.  Applications accepted on a rolling basis after this date until all spaces are filled.
  • Early March - Admission notifications emailed to priority applicants
  • April 1 - Tuition reservation due
  • May 15 - Forms, Tuition Balance
Full program details can be found here.


COVID-19 Protocols:
We will be following the COVID protocols set in place for visitors at the time of the festival by the University of Cincinnati, for the latest info check here

Program Definitions:  
Cello & Chamber Dual App:  Cellists wishing to apply for both festivals (discounted app fee for both)
Cello Festival:  Cellists wishing to apply to only Cello Festival
Piano: Pianists wishing to apply to the Chamber Music Festival
Strings: Violinists, violists, and cellists wishing to apply to only the Chamber Music Festival

Video Guidelines
can be accessed after choosing the program you are applying for.

Chamber Festival Tuition and Housing:

On-campus Tuition: $3400 Includes room and board provided in air-conditioned single dorm on the campus of the University of Cincinnati.
Off-campus Tuition: $2100 Includes daily lunch in the University of Cincinnati dining hall.

Cello Festival Tuition:
On-campus Tuition: $1100 Includes room and board provided in air-conditioned single dorm on the campus of the University of Cincinnati.
Off-campus Tuition: $700 Includes daily lunch in the University of Cincinnati dining hall.


For application questions, please contact the admissions team at admissions@ascentmusic.org

We look forward to reviewing your application for the summer of 2023!