Penn Symphony Orchestra Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Penn Symphony Orchestra?

The University of Pennsylvania Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1878 and is one of the oldest musical organizations on campus. The Penn Orchestra is an ensemble made up of 75-90 musicians from throughout the University community. The orchestra performs a diverse array of repertoire drawn from the classical period through the twentieth century. The Symphony Orchestra rehearses and performs four concerts annually in the historic and newly renovated Irvine Auditorium on the Penn Campus.

How do I audition for the Penn orchestra?

Audition information is found on the music website: www.sas.upenn.edu/music/performance. Auditions are held Tuesday-Thursday after Labor Day each fall. Auditions are divided into 3 parts:

1) Brief Interview (2min): each candidate should present the completed audition form and will be asked questions about his/her past musical experiences, orchestra repertoire, private study, etc.

2) Free choice playing (3min): the candidate can play anything of his/her choice for approximately 3 minutes. Candidates are encouraged to select music from the standard solo repertoire for their instrument. In some cases, advanced etudes are also acceptable. Candidates are encouraged to play two different excerpts, contrasting in character: one more lyrical to demonstrate musicality and one more technical to demonstrate dexterity.

3) Orchestral excerpt (2min): Excerpts are available online in late August.

What is the time commitment?

The Penn Orchestra rehearses Mondays and Thursdays from 6-8pm throughout the academic year, with the exception of reading days and final exam week. Attendance is required at all rehearsals. Sectionals or master-classes may be held outside of rehearsal time, though it will generally be limited to no more than 2 per semester. During concert weeks, one additional full orchestra rehearsal may be added. Many Penn orchestra members remain very active in other campus organizations, though it is difficult to be a part of another high-commitment group, such as a varsity sports team, while participating in Penn orchestra.

How many concerts does the orchestra perform each year?

The Penn orchestra performs 4 concerts annually. A typical season will include 3 orchestra concerts plus one masterwork concert performed in conjunction with the University Choral Society. See the online repertoire list for works that have been performed recently.

How competitive is membership in the orchestra?

This can vary from year to year, depending on the number of students graduating from a particular section or what instruments are needed. Every member of the PSO is required to re-audition each year, so the number of openings available for potential new members is limited only by the number of outstanding players that audition. All students interested in playing in the orchestra are encouraged to audition. You never know what will happen unless you take the audition!

How are orchestra members seated?

Seating is based on the fall auditions. Members are evaluated by the conductor based on the initial audition and their performance throughout the year, and are assigned seats according to ability and level of commitment to the orchestra. Every effort is made to give numerous students an opportunity to sit in leadership positions, within what will best serve the music and the orchestra as a whole.

I'm not a Penn student. Can I join the orchestra?

Yes. All Penn undergraduate and graduate students, as well as faculty and staff, are eligible to audition. In addition, community members, students from other universities in the Philadelphia area, and even talented high school students are also welcome to audition for the Penn orchestra with the understanding that Penn students will be given first priority for membership.

Can I join the orchestra in mid-year?

In some cases, if instruments are needed. Contact the conductor for more information.

Can I receive credit for participating in the Penn orchestra?

Yes. Music 7, Ensemble Credit, is available to all student members of the PSO. In order to receive credit, you must register in the Department of Music Office (202 Music Building).