NRO Handbook Acknowledgement

The National Repertory Orchestra’s mission is to prepare the next generation of musicians for careers in professional orchestras through transformative education, exceptional performances, and meaningful community engagement. The NRO strives to inspire excellence, innovation, and leadership while honoring the rich traditions of classical music.

As members of the NRO community, staff, fellows, and musicians are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of professionalism. This includes representing the NRO with integrity both on and off stage, treating fellow musicians, conductors, staff, and audiences with respect, and embodying excellence in every aspect of their artistry and conduct.

The following guidelines exist to uphold our values as an educational and performance-based organization and to foster a safe, respectful, and vibrant environment for all participants. By joining the NRO, all staff, fellows, and musicians agree to adhere to the standards and policies outlined in the NRO Handbook. The NRO reserves the right to reevaluate any member's participation if their behavior does not align with these expectations.

Carefully read each section, and acknowledge that you have read, understood, and accepted the policies outlined.

Arrival Information: Summer Staff & Fellows

Arrival: Monday, June 1, 2026

Check-In: 3:00PM - 6:00PM

The NRO provides a shuttle from Denver International Airport to Breckenridge. In order to be eligible for this transportation you MUST book your Arrival flight to arrive at Denver International Airport BEFORE 2:00 pm on Monday, June 1, 2026. If you arrive prior to June 1, 2026 you are responsible for your own lodging and transportation.

Arrival Information: Musicians

Arrival: Sunday, June 14, 2026

Check-In: 3:00PM - 6:00PM

The NRO provides a charter bus from Denver International Airport to Breckenridge. In order to be eligible for this transportation you MUST book your Arrival flight to arrive at Denver International Airport BEFORE 2:00 pm on Sunday, June 14, 2026. If you arrive prior to June 14, 2026 you are responsible for your own lodging and transportation.

The normal travel time from Denver International Airport to Breckenridge is 2.5 hours. If you do not book your flights accordingly, you will be responsible for your own transportation to/from the airport.

If you are planning on getting yourself to Breckenridge, check-in at Breckenridge Terrace will be open strictly between 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm on your expected festival arrival day, so please plan your arrival accordingly. No check-ins will be available outside of these hours.

DEI Statement

As an intensive summer festival committed to developing diverse, thoughtful, and socially conscious musicians through experiential learning, we believe the National Repertory Orchestra (NRO) is well positioned to affect change in classical music. We acknowledge the presence of historic and current racism and other forms of discrimination within the classical music industry. Historically, orchestras have not been accessible for everyone. Not all have felt welcomed to the stage, the offices, the boardroom, or the audience. We recognize that we are surrounded by these practices of exclusion; and we have the opportunity to help create change.

As an organization, we are engaged in the ongoing work of identifying and dismantling systems of racism, discrimination, and barriers to access and we are committed to build more just ones. The change we want to see starts with our own actions. In order to build and sustain greater diversity, equity and inclusion in the NRO, we must commit to a deeper understanding of our own context, history, industry and society.

We will focus on the actions necessary to build greater equity and inclusion. The NRO is committed to a process of transformation and growth to elicit real change by:

• Accepting individuals where they are in their own understanding and learning processes around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and antiracism. Acknowledging that hearing an array of perspectives will allow us to grow together as an organization.
• Committing to constant learning and growth. Modeling change via our internal behaviors, practices, and policies.
• Centering voices of the least represented and most marginalized individuals and groups across our efforts.
• Engaging with and in our community to allow us to learn and serve them in a meaningful way.
• Actively welcoming and being accessible to all. Committing to a process of transformation and growth with empathy, curiosity, and compassion.
• Supporting and standing with those who have been and continue to be marginalized.
• Considering and applying DEI and antiracism principals in every decision we make.

Our work will not be perfect—we are going to make mistakes. But action is non-negotiable. We are committed to investing in change, learning/unlearning, apologizing when we fail, and trying again.

Anti-Discrimination Policy

The NRO is committed to equal opportunity in its employment practices and does not discriminate based on race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, military status, or any other status or condition protected by law. The NRO maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards verbal or non-verbal behavior by any NRO officer, director, employee, or independent contractor that denigrates or shows hostility toward another individual based on these protected categories.

If anyone believes they have experienced unlawful discrimination by an NRO officer, director, musician, employee, or independent contractor, they should report the incident immediately to the CEO or the Orchestra Manager. If the complaint involves either of these individuals, it should be directed to any Board member. The CEO and/or the Board will conduct an investigation of the report as quickly as possible.

Drugs and Alcohol Policy

The NRO Alcohol Policy complies with all local, state, and federal laws. It is illegal for individuals under 21 years of age to purchase, consume, possess, or transport any alcoholic beverages. Distribution of alcohol, whether by sale or as a gift, to anyone under the age of 21 is strictly forbidden. Staff and Fellows under 21 are not allowed to be in the presence of alcohol, and any underage drinking may result in immediate dismissal from the program.

Staff and Fellows, regardless of age, are not permitted to consume alcohol before or during a concert at which they are working or performing.

Hard liquor and bulk alcohol dispensers (including alcoholic punch, kegs, taps, beer bongs, shot skis, and other unmonitored containers) are not allowed in the housing facilities, whether full or empty.

Parties, drinking games, or any activities promoting irresponsible or competitive drinking are prohibited.

The NRO reserves the right to confiscate any alcohol. Staff and Fellows displaying disorderly behavior will face disciplinary action. Violations of the alcohol policy within housing facilities may result in immediate loss of housing privileges, requiring individuals to arrange their own accommodation. Repeated violations may lead to suspension, forfeiture of scholarships, and/or expulsion.

Possession or consumption of marijuana, in any form, is strictly prohibited in the Riverwalk Center, even for those of legal age under Colorado law. Additionally, Staff and Fellows are not allowed to bring marijuana, in any form, onto any NRO property or venue. It is illegal for individuals under 21 to purchase, consume, possess, or transport marijuana. Distribution of marijuana to persons under 21 or to anyone other than the legally identified buyer is unlawful and may be reported to local law enforcement.

The NRO Drug Policy aligns with federal law for all other controlled substances. Any violations may result in suspension, forfeiture of scholarship, and/or expulsion.

Bullying Policy

Bullying is defined as unwelcome or unreasonable behavior that demeans, intimidates, or humiliates individuals or groups. It is often persistent and part of a pattern, though it can also occur as a single incident. While bullying is usually carried out by an individual, it can also be a form of group behavior. Bullying of any kind is strictly prohibited. Participation in any bullying actions may result in expulsion.

Sexual Harassment Policy

The NRO is dedicated to fostering a work environment where every employee, fellow, and guest artist is treated with respect and dignity. Everyone has the right to work, live, learn, teach, or perform in an environment that supports equal opportunity and strictly prohibits discriminatory practices and behavior, including sexual harassment. Sexual harassment of any form—verbal, physical, or environmental—is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

For the purpose of this policy, sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome or unwanted conduct of a sexual nature (verbal, written, or physical) when:

• Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for decisions affecting hiring, evaluation, promotion, or other aspects of employment, education, or performance; and/or
• The conduct significantly interferes with an individual's employment, education, or performance; and/or
• The conduct creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment for working, living, learning, teaching, or performing.

Examples of Sexual Harassment include, but are not limited to:

• Unwanted sexual advances.
• Demands for sexual favors in exchange for favorable treatment or continued employment.
• Repeated sexual jokes, flirtations, advances, or propositions.
• Verbal abuse of a sexual nature.
• Graphic or verbal comments about an individual's body, sexual abilities, or perceived deficiencies.
• Leering, whistling, touching, pinching, assault, coerced sexual acts, or suggestive, insulting, or obscene comments or gestures.
• Display of sexually suggestive objects or images.

This policy applies to all permanent and temporary NRO employees, fellows, and guest artists. The NRO will not tolerate or condone sexual harassment by any individual, whether it involves staff, supervisors, fellows, guest artists, or non-employees conducting business with the NRO. The organization encourages the reporting of all incidents of sexual harassment, regardless of who the offender may be, and assures protection to those who report such behavior.

If you believe you have experienced sexual harassment, you should report the incident to one of the following NRO staff members by calling 970-453-5825:

Dave DePeters, CEO

Åsa Armstrong, Director of Development

Eric Anderson, Orchestra Manager

Complaints will be investigated promptly, impartially, and with as much confidentiality as possible. Retaliation against anyone who reports sexual harassment or participates in an investigation is strictly forbidden.

Consequences for Violations: Disciplinary action will be determined based on the severity of the offense and may include verbal or written warnings, suspension, or termination.

Unlawful Sexual Contact Policy

Colorado Criminal Law §18-3-404 defines unlawful sexual contact as “the knowing touching of the victim’s intimate parts by the actor, or of the actor’s intimate parts by the victim, or the knowing touching of the clothing covering the immediate area of the victim’s or actor’s intimate parts if that sexual contact is for the purposes of sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse.”

Should any person believe they have been the victim of unlawful sexual harassment or sexual contact by any NRO officer, director, musician, employee, or independent contractor, they should report such conduct immediately to the CEO or the Orchestra Manager. If this is uncomfortable the NRO will identify a third party to receive the report. The CEO and/or the Board shall investigate such a report as expeditiously as possible.

Non-consensual sexual contact will not only lead to dismissal but will also be brought to the attention of local law enforcement.

Conflict Resolution Policy

The National Repertory Orchestra (NRO) is committed to fostering a positive and productive environment for all staff, fellows, guest artists, and musicians. This policy outlines the procedures for resolving conflicts in a constructive, respectful, and timely manner. It ensures that all parties involved in conflicts are treated fairly and that disagreements are addressed in a manner that promotes cooperation, understanding, and professional growth.

This policy applies to all individuals associated with the NRO, including staff, fellows, musicians, guest artists, and other stakeholders involved in NRO activities, including rehearsals, performances, and community engagements.

1. Prevention and Early Intervention:

While conflict is inevitable in any organization, the NRO encourages proactive communication and conflict prevention measures. Staff and fellows are encouraged to:

• Foster open communication and transparency.
• Address minor issues before they escalate into major conflicts.
• Seek guidance from a supervisor or manager if they foresee or experience a conflict.

2. Conflict Resolution Process:

3. Confidentiality and Non-Retaliation

NRO is committed to handling conflicts with discretion. All parties involved in the conflict resolution process should maintain confidentiality to protect the privacy of those involved. Retaliation or negative consequences against any individual for raising a concern or participating in conflict resolution will not be tolerated. Any such behavior should be reported immediately to the appropriate NRO authority.

4. Timeliness

Conflicts should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent escalation. The NRO expects all parties involved to act promptly in seeking resolution through the outlined steps. Delayed action may result in prolonged issues that affect the work environment and the performance of the NRO.

5. Outcome and Follow-Up

Once a conflict is resolved, both parties will be expected to follow through on any agreed-upon actions or solutions. The NRO may also follow up with the involved parties to ensure the conflict has been fully addressed and that there are no lingering issues.

The NRO believes that healthy, respectful communication is essential for maintaining a positive and productive environment. Conflicts are an inevitable part of any collaborative organization, but by addressing them early and constructively, we can maintain a thriving and harmonious community for all involved.

Termination Procedures Policy

The following reasons, though not exhaustive, are examples of sufficient cause for immediate termination:

• Discourteous behavior, arguing, insulting, or other disrespectful actions toward the Conductor, Administrative Staff, Production Staff, Guest Artists, Patrons, Musicians, Fellows, or Staff members.
• Insubordination or progressive disciplinary problems.
• Intoxication while on duty.
• Theft or tolerating theft.
• Dishonest or fraudulent use of an identification pass.
• Careless or unsafe work; substandard performance or unsatisfactory work.
• Use or possession of illegal substances.
• Possession of weapons.
• Willful failure to meet job requirements.
• Unexcused absence.
• Frequent tardiness.
• Vandalism and/or destruction of any portion of the performance facility, rehearsal facilities, or orchestra property.
• Failure to conduct oneself appropriately while on NRO business.
• Frequent failure to adhere to the dress code.
• Failure to adhere to the transportation clause (musicians only).

Illness/Injury Policy

All personnel issues—including attendance, personal equipment problems, housing, illness, or injury—must be reported immediately to the Orchestra Manager or their designated representative. No other points of contact are acceptable.

Orchestra Manager Contact Information:

Eric Anderson

Email: orchestra@nromusic.org

Phone: 423-432-2190

If medical attention is required, the following facilities are available in town:

High Country Health Care

400 N Park Ave, Suite 1A, Breckenridge

Phone: 970-547-9200

St. Anthony’s Hospital

340 Peak One Drive, Frisco

Phone: 970-668-3300

Mental Health Resources — Building Hope

The Building Hope initiative has nine focus areas to improve mental health access, stigma, and care in Summit County.

Jana Edwards, MSW, LCSW, BCD is offering any NRO musician a complimentary one-hour session to talk through feelings, concerns, or struggles you may be having. This service should not be considered psychotherapy nor a substitute for any type of mental health treatment you may already be receiving.

Jana may be reached by text at 303-916-6564. Once a request is sent, she will respond with possible times for an appointment. The session will take place in the NRO office in a confidential setting. No one within the NRO staff will be notified that you have reached out for this service, and the only record that will be kept is a total number of people who have used the service. This is an opportunity for a private conversation with a trained mental health professional. Appropriate referrals will be made available if a mental health crisis is identified.

Health and Safety in the Mountains Policies

Being an NRO Ambassador

Throughout your time in Breckenridge, you'll have numerous opportunities to interact with residents and visitors. Remember that you are an ambassador for the National Repertory Orchestra—an organization with a 65 year history and 30+ year tenure in Breckenridge. Every encounter is an opportunity to share information about the NRO, invite people to concerts, and showcase your dedication to the arts. Treat every person with respect and kindness, as how you conduct yourself reflects on the NRO and its future musicians.

Even though Breckenridge is laid-back in terms of dress and familiarity, always maintain professionalism. You never know who you might be speaking with, so represent the NRO well at all times, both inside and outside of rehearsals and performances. You are part of the NRO's extended presence in the community, and your actions contribute to its reputation.

Climate and Altitude

Breckenridge is at an elevation of nearly 10,000 feet and the climate is dry. Together, these two qualities make the perfect environment for dehydration and altitude sickness to occur. When arriving at Breckenridge, refrain from strenuous activity and exercise and drink plenty of water until you feel acclimated.

See the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guide on traveling to high altitude for tips on how to prepare and avoid altitude sickness.

Summer temperatures range from 80° F during the day to 40° F (sometimes lower) at night. Brief afternoon rain showers are common. Dress in layers and bring a raincoat, sweater, or light jacket. Breckenridge day dress is casual (jeans, shorts, and other casual attire).

No Animal Selfies

While in Breckenridge, you WILL encounter wildlife. Just because animals are in town that does not make them tame. These animals are wild and will defend themselves if you engage them. Avoid wild animals; if you cannot, follow these steps:

• Bears: Identify yourself by speaking in a calm, appeasing tone. Back away slowly, preferably in the direction you came. Walk, don't run, and keep your eye on the bear so you can can see how it will react. Bears will use trails and when encountering them you should always yield the path.
• Moose: Keep a safe distance and a watchful eye. If the moose becomes aggressive and charges, run. Moose can run at speeds of up to 35 MPH, so run directly towards a large object to hide behind. Watching for warning signs is one of the best ways to avoid danger when encountering a moose. The hair on the back of the neck or above its hips may stand up, or they may lay their ears back or smack their lips.
• Fox/Coyote: If you encounter a fox or coyote that does not immediately run away, make some noise. Yell, clap your hands, wave your arms, stomp your feet to make your presence felt, but do not approach or chase the animal. You can also carry a whistle or other noisemaker when walking in known coyote or fox areas.

Hiking Safety

Some of the most beautiful hikes in the world are in the Rocky Mountains. Make sure you explore our surroundings safely. Check the weather and have a plan before you start — study your map and bring it with you. Hike in groups of three or more. Tell some one (NRO Orchestra Manager, for instance) where you are going and your expected time of return. Carry and drink plenty of water (a minimum of one quart every two hours, wear sturdy footwear with traction, dress in layers, and stay on the trail.

Emergencies and Wildfires

Be prepared for natural emergencies by downloading the Code Red Mobile Alert app or signing up for email/text alerts. This is how Summit County shares emergency information about wildfires, floods, evacuations, road closures, and more.

Housing Policies

The following policies are in place to ensure the safety and security of all residents and to maintain positive relationships with local housing providers. As outlined in ARTICLE XVII: Force Majeure of the Master Service Agreement:

“Conditions for your participation in the National Repertory Orchestra Music Festival are fully dependent on the NRO securing housing for the entire length of this contract. If housing is not obtained by the NRO for the staff and fellows, the contract will be void and all deposit money will be returned to the staff and fellows, and the NRO will not be held responsible for any expenses to the staff or fellows.”

Room Keys

A room key will be issued to each resident upon check-in. Staff and fellows are responsible for returning the key at check-out. If a key is lost, it should be reported immediately to the Orchestra Manager. Staff and fellows will be required to pay for key replacement, which may include re-keying the lock, with fees up to $250.

Lock Outs

If a resident is locked out of their room, they should first contact their suite/roommate(s). If they are unable to assist, the Orchestra Manager should be called for assistance.

Laundry

Most complexes have washers and dryers in common areas that use the MicroPayments GS app in addition to being coin-operated. Additionally, Breckenridge Laundry (105 S French Street) is open 24/7 and accepts credit or debit card payments.

Quiet Hours

To maintain a conducive atmosphere for rehearsal and practice, quiet hours are observed from 10 pm to 8 am daily. Practicing in apartments is prohibited during these hours. All residents are expected to adhere to a “Courtesy Policy” to ensure that loud voices, music, or other disturbances do not disturb others. Apartment windows must also be closed while practicing starting at 7 pm to minimize disturbances to neighbors.

Guests

Visitors are welcome, but staff and fellows are responsible for their guests at all times. It is essential that residents inform their suite/roommates of guest visits prior to arrival. Guests may not occupy a resident’s room when the resident is absent, and room keys must not be given to guests. Overnight guests are not allowed in housing. The NRO reserves the right to deny guest access if it is determined that the guest may disrupt or disturb others.

Room Changes

Room changes are not permitted without the approval of the Orchestra Manager. Residents should contact the Orchestra Manager if they experience issues with their room or roommate.

Room Entry and Inspection

While the NRO respects the privacy of residents, it reserves the right for NRO Senior Leadership staff to conduct periodic room inspections to ensure the safety and security of all residents.

Room Furnishings

Each resident will be provided with a bed, pillow, bedding, and towels. Apartments will also include a living room and kitchen with necessary kitchen supplies (pots, pans, plates, flatware). All furnishings must remain in their original locations at check-out.

Room Inventory

Residents will be required to complete a Damage Assessment form on their NRO Portal upon check-in, noting all pre-existing damages. This document serves to protect both the staff and fellows. Charges for damages or missing items that are not listed on the form will be deducted from the security deposit.

Vandalism

Residents are prohibited from causing damage, removal, or unauthorized alterations to any NRO property, including furnishings, equipment, or buildings. Defacing any surfaces with chalk, marker, paint, or other substances is considered vandalism. Charges for repairs or replacement, including labor, will be assessed at full cost. The individual may also face criminal prosecution. Residents should keep apartment doors locked at all times.

Cleaning Supplies

Residents are responsible for keeping their apartments clean and should clean their room prior to check-out. Some cleaning supplies may be provided, but additional supplies can be purchased at local stores.

Trash

Residents are responsible for disposing of their own trash. Garbage should be taken to the dumpsters located in the parking lot area.

Maintenance Issues

Any maintenance issues should be reported to the Orchestra Manager, who will communicate with property managers for timely resolution.

Public Areas and Personal Items

Personal items should not be left in public areas as they may obstruct emergency exits. Items left unattended may be considered trash and discarded. The NRO is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal property.

Smoking

Smoking of any kind is strictly prohibited in all housing units.

Pets

Pets are not allowed in NRO staff and fellow housing, rehearsal halls, performance venues, or practice rooms.

Personal Property Policy

The NRO maintains general liability and Workers' Compensation insurance. However, the NRO does not provide coverage for the personal property of staff and fellows, including but not limited to instruments, and cannot be held liable for any loss, damage, or theft of personal items. Staff and fellows are strongly encouraged to secure insurance coverage for their personal property before arriving in Breckenridge. Some homeowner insurance policies may offer coverage. Personal property should never be left unattended.

Parking Policy

Staff and fellows are strongly encouraged to leave personal vehicles at home and rely on public transportation or bicycles while in Breckenridge. Free parking is not available at the rehearsal or performance venue.

Breckenridge provides a FREE bus service that picks up in front of Breck Terrace Housing and drops off near the rehearsal/performance venue. Additionally, NRO participants can take advantage of a highly discounted rate for using electric bikes in town.

Food Stipend Policy

Each NRO musician, summer staff member, and admin fellow will receive $85 per week in City Market gift cards. These cards will be distributed in two rounds: one upon arrival and another halfway through the festival. The cards can be used at City Market, located on North Park Avenue, with a bus stop directly in front of the store. The cards must be picked up personally and cannot be given to a roommate or friend on your behalf.

Attendance Policy

Attendance is mandatory for all services, rehearsals, and performances unless the staff member or fellow is not assigned to that specific performance or piece. Staff and fellows must also attend all scheduled Community Engagement events, as well as relevant master classes or sectionals. Failure to arrive on time or absence from rehearsals, performances, or community engagement services will result in a verbal warning. Repeated tardiness or absences may lead to dismissal. Illnesses and injuries that occur during the season must be reported to the Orchestra Manager or their designee and will be addressed on a case-by-case basis. If a musician's instrument is damaged, they must inform the Orchestra Manager and attend rehearsal with a score for listening purposes unless otherwise instructed. Soloists are generally not required to perform in other pieces on the program that features their solo.

Performance & Rehearsal Attendance Policies

Call Times

Timeliness is critical to ensure adequate time for equipment setup and sound check:

• Rehearsals: Arrive 15 minutes prior to the published start time.
• Performances: Arrive 30 minutes prior to the published concert start time.
• Community Engagement (CE) Events: Arrive on-site 30 minutes before the published event start time.

Rehearsal Breaks

Rehearsal breaks will last:

• 15 minutes for 2½-hour rehearsals
• 10 minutes for 2-hour rehearsals
• 20 minutes for 3-hour rehearsals

Outdoor Performances

Most Community Engagement concerts and NRO run-outs take place outdoors. Due to the constantly changing weather in Breckenridge, the Community Engagement Manager will assess the conditions and decide whether to proceed with outdoor performances. If the decision is made to perform outside, you will be expected to participate. Please ensure you are prepared for outdoor performances. For more information about our outdoor weather guidelines, please contact the Community Engagement Manager.

Announcements

Announcements will be made during the first two minutes of rehearsal, prior to tuning. General information and documents can be accessed on the NRO Portal.

Riverwalk Center Policies

The Riverwalk Center (RWC) is a shared facility between many organizations including the summer offices for the NRO and Breckenridge Creative Arts (BreckCreate).

As guests of the RWC, we must adhere to the following guidelines:

• No non-NRO personnel are allowed backstage.
• Office space may not be used for personal belongings.
• Do not leave anything behind after rehearsals or concerts.
• Keep valuables with you at all times. The NRO is not responsible for lost or stolen personal property.
• Rehearsal schedules are tight, and the RWC is extremely busy during the season. Please help accommodate this by limiting personal items in the backstage area.

Riverwalk Center Hours

Musicians should access the RWC via the Adams Street door (south side) or the Stage Door (river side). The doors will be unlocked one hour before rehearsals until half an hour after rehearsals. Building schedules outside of these hours will be posted one week in advance.

Practice Space

The RWC has significantly limited practice space. Most musicians will have to practice in their housing. We suggest bringing a folding stand and having an open discussion with other roommates to work out 'house rules.' Large instruments will have access to RWC for the purpose of practicing.

Keys and Keycards

Keys and building keycards will be checked out to bassists, the timpanist, percussionists, the harpist, and they keyboardist. These items are non-transferable and are the sole responsibility of the person to whom they are assigned. Access to the building is a privilege and all building rules and expectations are to be upheld at all times.

Summer Staff and Fellows who require regular access to RWC will have keys and keycards checked out to them. These items are non-transferable and are the sole responsibility of the person to whom they are assigned. The fee for losing keys or keycards is $100 each.

General RWC Policies

• No food or drink is allowed on stage (water in a clear bottle with a lid is permitted).
• Rockstops are mandatory for cellos, basses, and the contrabassoon.
• Musicians are responsible for addressing their own special needs, particularly due to frequent seating rotations.
• Any special seating requests should be submitted to the stage manager as early as possible and will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
• Percussion, harp, and piano rooms are designated for those players only. The last person practicing in these rooms must ensure that they are locked.
• Musicians should not jump off the front of the stage; please use the stairs on either side for safety.
• Exterior doors should not be propped open.
• The production crew is responsible for instrument rentals, piano tunings, and other logistical needs.
• For any issues or concerns, please communicate directly with the Production Manager.

Dress Code Policy

Staff are required to wear name tags at all NRO services. Daily attire may be casual, but should consist of clothes in good condition. Refrain from wearing clothes that are revealing, or that have tears, rips, or holes. Those working on stage or backstage must wear closed-toed shoes.

Performance Attire Policy

Orchestra Concert Dress and Pops Concerts

• Long sleeve black blouse or dress shirt
• White tuxedo jacket or blazer
• Long black skirt or black dress pants
• Black dress shoes (closed toe), black socks (hose optional)

July Fourth Concert

• White collared shirt (not sleeveless)
• Blue jeans (non-distressed denim, no holes or frays)
• Sneakers/Tennis Shoes (any color)

Community Engagement Events

• Black collared shirt
• Long black skirt or black dress pants
• Black dress shoes (closed toe), black socks (hose optional)

Production Staff

• Black collared shirt
• Long black skirt or black dress pants
• Black dress shoes (closed toe), black socks (hose optional)

Other Staff

Business Attire, for example:

• Khaki, wool, corduroy, twill, or cotton pants/trousers or skirts
• Long sleeve button down shirts
• Sweaters, twinsets, cardigans, henley, polo, or knit shirts
• Dress shoes and belts
• Optional: jackets, neck ties, scarves

Instrument Maintenance Policy

Musicians are responsible for providing and maintaining a suitable instrument in optimal condition at their own expense. They are expected to use this instrument for performances and rehearsals, and to perform to the best of their ability. The NRO is not responsible for the musician’s instrument, whether on or off NRO performance or rehearsal premises.

Instrument Storage and Care Policy

Instrument Storage

Large instrument storage is available in the Riverwalk Center. Space is very limited, therefore eligible large instruments include double bass, tuba, contrabassoon, and bass clarinet. Eligible fellows receive information about this benefit prior to the season. Interested fellows will sign a waiver for an access key to a storage locker. Large instrument storage is first-come, first-served and space for every instrument is not guaranteed.

All other students are expected to carry and transport their instruments to and from the Riverwalk Center. Note that every size instrument can be accommodated via the free town bus system. Students should not leave instruments unattended in the Riverwalk Center or elsewhere at any time.

Instrument Repair and Maintenance

There are no repair services regularly available in Breckenridge. Players are advised to bring supplies and tools with them.

In the case instrument repair is needed, fellows should first discuss options with their NRO Orchestra Manager. Repair services in Denver may be necessary. NRO does not have professional quality instruments to rent and is not able to cover travel expenses for students related to instrument repair.

Copyright Policies

As an arts organization, and in accordance with its professional affiliations, the NRO affirms the importance of upholding copyright laws in all aspects of its activities. The intentional, unauthorized use of any form of intellectual property is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, musical compositions, arrangements, recordings, publications, computer software, photography, illustrations, and written works.

Section 504 Notice of Non-Discrimination

The NRO does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its employment practices or in the administration of its programs and activities, in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and applicable federal and state laws. Qualified individuals with disabilities shall not be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to discrimination in employment or employment-related activities solely by reason of their disability.

Artistic Policy

The Conductor has the sole authority to regulate the pitch of the orchestra, and the Musician agrees to follow the Conductor’s instructions at all times, including those pertaining to their services and orchestral assignments.

Music Library Policy

The music library is located in the Riverwalk Center next to the Operations office in the upper level and is open Monday through Saturday from 9am-5pm and during concerts.

• Music will be available at least two weeks prior to the first rehearsal of any concert production.
• Distribution of practice parts will be via OPAS.
• Performance parts will be provided for musicians in folders on stage.
• Musicians are responsible for any music assigned to them to include the cost of lost or damaged parts.
• After performances, musicians will return parts to their performance folders and leave them on the stand. Please do not leave music in backstage areas or on the floor.
• Librarians will transport black performance folders to and from all performances.

Assignment Policy

The Musician agrees to accept assignments from the Music Director, Guest Conductor, Assistant Conductor, CEO, Director of Operations, Office Administration, Orchestra Manager, Library, and Production Staff.

Electronic Communications Policy

Email and OPAS will be the primary methods of communication for all personnel throughout the season. As changes to the daily schedule occur regularly and are distributed via email, it is essential that you actively monitor the email address on file with the Orchestra Manager. Any disruptions in your email service should be reported to the Orchestra Manager immediately. If an email requires a response, it is expected that you reply within 24 hours of receiving the email, unless a deadline is specified. All information communicated verbally in announcements or one-on-one will also be sent via email for record-keeping purposes.