Orchestra

With a repertoire ranging from the great orchestral classics to Broadway and film music, the Bucknell Orchestra is recognized throughout the region for its diverse, imaginative programs and quality performances.

Rehearsal Information

Rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings at the Weis Center for the Performing Arts, either on stage or in the rehearsal room immediately behind the stage. Evening access to the building is through the Technical Services door (stage door) located on the southwest corner of the building, closest to the stadium. Rehearsals are scheduled to begin at 7 p.m., but a revolving schedule of sectional rehearsals will have some players arriving at 7:30 p.m. or later. Schedules are sent by email. Players are expected to arrive fifteen minutes before their scheduled time to set up and warm up.

Performance Information

The Bucknell Orchestra performs two or more programs each semester. All concerts are held in the Weis Center for the Performing Arts.

Concert Attire

There are two options for Bucknell Orchestra concert attire:

  • Long black dress with long sleeves, or a long black skirt with a black long-sleeved blouse and black shoes.
  • Dinner jacket (tuxedo), with a wing collar shirt, black bow tie, black socks and black leather shoes.
  • Performers may choose the option that is consistent with their gender identity.
Bucknell Orchestra

Audition Information

Auditions are required for all new members. Audition material will consist of the player's choice of a scale, and a short solo piece or etude.

2022 Audition Dates:

  • Monday, Aug. 22, 2022
  • Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022

Select your audition day and time using the Online Audition Signup Form. Email para@bucknell.edu if you have any questions.

Submit your audition form

Instrument Loans, Lessons, Practice Facilities & Storage

A limited number of instruments are available for student use. If you need to borrow a school instrument, it is important that you inform the conductor as soon as possible before you arrive. Private lessons for most orchestral instruments are available through the Department of Music. Non-music majors are charged a semesterly fee for lessons. Practice rooms are located on the lower level of the Sigfried Weis Music Building, as are a limited number of lockers for instrument storage. Arrangements for instrument loans, music lessons and storage lockers must be made with Brenda Ross, academic assistant for the Department of Music (SWMB room 206, bross@bucknell.edu).

What to Bring With You

Bring a portable music stand. music department practice rooms are not equipped with stands. Metronomes are essential tools for ensemble part preparation. Orchestra members are expected to have one. String players must have mutes and may find it useful to also bring practice mute. Extra heavy mutes that will allow for dormitory room practice without disturbing others.