The orchestra welcomes inquiries from amateur musicians. Auditions are non-competitive, but places available depend on the needs of the orchestra for instrumental balance.
Our mission is for our members, some of whom have been playing their instruments for over 50 years, to have a way of continuing to play and enjoy the company of musical peers.
The first impetus was members playing for their own enjoyment. Soon, however, the orchestra began to give concerts, and for its more than 25 years the mission of the group has been dual - to provide an opportunity for amateur musicians to perform, while performing at a high level for the enjoyment of diverse audiences. Yearly the orchestra plays 4 concerts, one shared with the local band. Concerts are usually in Fridley,but occasionally in other northern locations. Knowing that, as Peter Schickele said, "All musics are created equal." however, not all "musics" get equal exposure, especially to young audiences, for several years the orchestra played a series of concerts in various Fridley public elementary and middle schools, supported by The United Arts School Arts Fund of COMPAS.
"Diversity" is a key word for this orchestra. Many of our members are retired.yet young players add their energies - the oldest member was still puffing on his bassoon at the age of 91 while the youngest player was a 15-year old violinist. Some players, even some of advanced years, began to study their instruments only recently, while others have graduate degrees in music. Diversity also marks the music styles the orchestra has selected to perform. Concerts have been comprised of selections from over 300 years of Western music, and one concert was entirely music from mainland China.
