HISTORY
The Northwest Chicago Symphony Orchestra was established in the fall of 1979 as a result of numerous inquiries from Wright College graduates seeking performance outlets in the Northwest Chicago area.
Since its inaugural performance by nearly forty players, the Northwest Chicago Symphony Orchestra has grown to over sixty musicians who give four performances each season.
From the beginning, the orchestra, established by Michael Holian, has had as its guiding precept that of existing first and foremost to serve its members. If the members are well received and derive satisfaction from their involvement in the music making process, this will be reflected in the quality of the performance. The direct beneficiary of better performances is an appreciative public on the northwest side served by the orchestra.
Under a cooperative governance, the principal members of the orchestra have a voice in determining the program of the symphony, the featured performers in these programs, and are themselves featured in solo roles. Additionally, principals of sections are involved in making decisions regarding auditions of new members. This philosophy has served the orchestra well as it continues to grow and develop.
Our conductor, Michael Holian, is a professor of music at Wright College. He is a seasoned musician with years of experience as a teacher, performer, adjudicator, and as a conductor of both community and professional orchestras.
Join The Orchestra
All NWCSO musicians volunteer their time and musical talents to perform in Chicago’s official community orchestra. Many players are professional musicians or music educators, while others work full-time in non-music related occupations. We strive for excellence in playing great music and at the same time enjoy a recreational and social experience.
We welcome new players at any point in the season if there is an opening in the section. Any musician who would like to play in the orchestra may be asked to participate in an informal audition to be held by the music director or, in some cases, a designated section leader. Seating and part assignments will be made by the Director.
If a playing position is unavailable, an applicant will be placed on the substitute list and will be notified immediately if an appropriate position is vacated. Please contact the Orchestra here on the website for further information.
Also, If you have studied music and are graduating College this year, love to play the classics and would like to continue performing with a semi-professional orchestra, please contact us.
Membership Dues of $60 per concert season are required at the beginning of the season to support our Operating costs and Guest Artists. Other methods of our fund raising help to offset these costs.
The Player Commitment
As Northwest Chicago’s official community orchestra, we attract an audience ranging from interested adults and youngsters to appreciative professional musicians. In meeting their dual roles as musicians and members of the community, NWCSO players are expected to make a firm commitment to the rehearsal and concert schedule and to put forth the effort needed to achieve excellence in performance.
Rehearsals
Rehearsal Schedule
The Orchestra rehearses every Tuesday Evening from 7 to 9:30 PM
Second Floor, Music Department in the Events Building at Wright College.
We perform on an average of four Concerts per season, and hold a short summer session and concert for those who wish to continue to play during the Summer.
Frequently, an additional rehearsal may be scheduled in the early afternoon of the concert day. Dress rehearsals will be scheduled in conjunction with the performance date and take place in the Wright College Theater.