Taking place June 28th through August 19th 2012, the Aspen Music Festival is an annual event that brings together amazing music in and around Aspen, CO. Featuring 300 events over the course of 53 days, the 2012 theme for the festival is Made in America, and will honor three groups of world renowned composers. This year, the three operas that will be performed include Mozart’s “The Magic Flute,” John Harbison’s “The Great Gatsby” and Stephen Sondheim’s “Sweeney Todd.”

The music at the festival will range from classical to jazz in the form of full orchestras to solo performances. There are several beautiful musical venues in Aspen, with prices ranging from completely free to $84. Here are five fantastic, unique musical events to catch at the Aspen Music Festival.

Photo Credit: aspenmusicfestival.com

A Gershwin Celebration
Date: Thursday, June 28th
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Price: $65

This is a big band ensemble with Robert Spano conducting Gershwin’s jazz concertos, including “Piano Concerto in F major,” “Second Rhapsody” and “Rhapsody in Blue.” Three star pianists, Inon Barnatan, Marc-André Hamelin and Conrad Tao will perform as well, in a tribute to Harley Baldwin that’s not to be missed.

Fourth of July Concert
Date: Wednesday, July 4
Time: 4 p.m.
Price: Free

Venture to Aspen and enjoy a free musical celebration unlike any other in Colorado on the 4^th of July. Lawrence Isaacson conducts the Aspen Music Festival band in a rousing collection of patriotic favorites. Being that this popular, annual event is free, it’s suggested you arrive early. Bring the family and a picnic and enjoy this wholesome celebration in lovely Aspen.

Photo Credit: aspenmusicfestival.com

Music on the Mountain
Date: July 28
Time: 1 p.m.
Price: Free

The magnificent heights of Aspen welcome music from the Aspen Music Festival. Music on the Mountain is a free concert, but it requires a gondola ticket. The 18 minute ride on the Silver Queen gondola to the top of Aspen Mountain costs $26. The price is worth the extraordinary view up and down the mountain while you listen to amazing music.

Photo Credit: aspenmusicfestival.com

Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd
Date: July 30
Time: 7 p.m.
Price: $25 to $65

Murder, music, cannibalism and comedy mix together for a delicious recipe of a classic opera. Steven Sondheim’s “Sweeney Todd” is a masterpiece and a musical event that is directed by Edward Berkeley.  Conducted by Robert Spano, Steven Sondheim’s “Sweeney Todd” is a delightful experience for the whole family. Although, the subject matter might may be a bit risqué for the young.

Related: Top Smaller Live Music Venues

The Great Gatsby
Date: August 18
Time: 7 p.m.
Price: $25 to $55

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s fascinating look at the Roaring 20s arranged to a musical score is not to be missed. Directed by Edward Berkeley, “The Great Gatsby’s” music was composed by John Harris Harbison and is conducted by Anne Manson. “The Great Gatsby” is a musical snapshot of a beloved, bygone era.

Related: Best Music Venues in Northern Colorado