Orchestra

GT Orchestra in concert at the Ferst Center for the Arts

The Georgia Tech Symphony Orchestra maintains a membership of approximately 80-90 students. Concerts and repertoire expose participants to a variety of orchestral literature from the Classical through Contemporary periods, including popular and film music. Director Ron Mendola insists on a musically rigorous yet friendly and fun atmosphere.

Participation in the Orchestra broadens students' skills and experience in performing, understanding and appreciation of great music. Recent works performed include Scheherazade, the John Williams signature version of his Star Wars Suite, Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 5 and his Serenade for Strings, James Horner's Suite from The Mask of Zorro and Maurice Jarre's Overture to Lawrence of Arabia. Other recent works include Wagner (Prelude to the 3rd Act of Lohengrin), Bernstein (Symphonic Dances from West Side Story), Verdi's Overture to Nabucco and Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4.

The program also provides access to master classes; in 2000-2001 these included Yo Yo Ma and Midori. The orchestra records annually in studio and live concert venues. Members also enjoy social aspects through informal dinners and parties. Students are encouraged to pre-register for orchestra and then audition. Semester dues are $15. Orchestra Rehearsals are from 6:35 pm to 7:55 pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings in the fall and spring semesters.

Admission is by audition the first two days of each semester, except for string players, who are admitted automatically and audition the second week of class for seating only.

Contact Director Ron Mendola to set up your audition time.