Orchestra membership and performance guidelines

1. Dues/Tuition

All members in good standing are approved for participation in orchestra activities, which include but are not limited to public performance and rehearsal instruction. To be in good standing, a member must attend rehearsals regularly and must have paid the required dues (tuition), unless they are officially waived or modified, as in the case of hired ringers.

Visitors are encouraged to attend two rehearsals before formally joining the orchestra.

2. Attendance at Rehearsals

Orchestra members are required to attend rehearsal instruction regularly and at the appointed times, so they may learn and incorporate special instructions for the performance of each piece and so they may become more skilled at ensemble playing. This requirement may be modified in special circumstances by the conductor or assistant conductor.

In a few cases, the conductor or manager may invite individuals who have demonstrated exceptional ensemble playing skills on needed instruments to attend just the last few rehearsals before a concert.

3. Assignment of Parts

The orchestra conductor or assistant conductor will assign parts based on playing ability and interests. Orchestra members may be asked to switch parts, and in some cases instruments (if they play more than one), to create the best orchestral sound.

4. Orchestral Directions

Orchestra members will adhere to the conductor's directions. This ensures a unanimity of approach in terms of style, volume, articulation, and tempo, as well as overall musicality.

Similarly, orchestra members need to blend with the ensemble. It is only through regular attendance and listening to one's self and to the orchestra that a musician can become familiar with the total sound of the group and learn the appropriate relative volumes and ensemble techniques that make a successful performance. This also enables orchestra members to know where their parts fit into the ensemble.

In short, being in good standing, attending rehearsals, playing the assigned part, and following the conductor's leadership will make the orchestra unified in approach and capable of growth.

The Somerset Valley Orchestra

Emily Bengels, Director
Don Kalbach, Assistant Director/Manager
Bobbi Agins, Webmaster/Assistant Manager

May you leave with a song in your heart