Philharmonic and Chamber Orchestras
Texas A&M has two orchestras — the Chamber Orchestra (80 strings, mostly Texas All-State players) and the Philharmonic Orchestra (100+ strings, includes many All-Area and All-Region level players).
The university orchestras perform a variety of traditional and contemporary classical music. The Chamber Orchestra and the Philharmonic Orchestra perform two concerts each semester. Musicians from the university bands combine with the Chamber Orchestra for a full orchestra once each semester.
Rehearsals
The Philharmonic and Chamber orchestras are each a one-hour credit course.
Chamber Orchestra (MUSC 283, Section 500) M/W 4:10-5:25 p.m.
Philharmonic Orchestra (MUSC 283, Section 502) M/W/F 9:10-10 a.m.
Audition Information
Membership in the Texas A&M University orchestras is based on a live audition. If you have questions regarding auditioning, you may contact Dr. James Van Zandt.
Orchestra placement and seating are based on ability level. Auditions are typically held in the summer in conjunction with the New Student Conferences (NSC). It is usually best to schedule your audition the day before your NSC begins. To schedule an audition, fill out the following Audition Request Form.
For the audition:
You will prepare two musical selections of your own choosing — one technical, one lyrical. Each selection should be about two minutes long. Most students will prepare a solo repertory piece or a region orchestra auditions etude they performed in high school. There will also be a short sight-reading piece.
Note: to be considered for Chamber Orchestra, you will need to schedule your audition prior to Aug. 1.