Come Play With Us

How do I join?

We always welcome new musicians to apply to join the orchestra. There is no audition requirement to play with the NOVA Symphony Orchestra. We encourage prospective members to:

  • Review the videos to be sure you are comfortable with the types and difficulty levels of the music we play.
  • Browse the Meet Our Musicians page to get to know our music director and administrative section leaders.

To apply, please submit this Player Information Form.

Although we hold no formal auditions for new members, we do evaluate your qualifications as described on the form.

Note: There are no current openings in any section of the orchestra. If you play an orchestral instrument and are interested in joining us in the future, please do submit a Player Information Form. You will receive an acknowledgement from one of our section leaders. If you are qualified, you will be placed on a waiting list.

Questions? Email NOVA.Symphony.Orchestra@gmail.com.

Who plays with the NOVA Symphony Orchestra?

The NOVA Symphony Orchestra is unique because it is both a college course and a community orchestra. Our members include students, former military ensemble musicians, semi-professional players, retired professionals, current and retired teachers, and amateur musicians from the community. We perform a varied repertoire, including classic symphonic standards, modern and commissioned works, and pops in the summer.

Is there a membership fee?

Although there is no special fee to join the orchestra, all musicians are encouraged to register for MUS-148/248. Registration helps make it possible for us to access world class rehearsal and performance spaces, including Schlesinger Concert Hall.

When does the orchestra rehearse?

Rehearsals are on Wednesdays from 7:30 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. We meet in the Recital Hall, room 118 of the Fine Arts building on the NOVA Alexandria campus. (Note: we no longer meet on the Annandale campus.) First rehearsal of each NVCC semester is generally the first Wednesday of the semester. We rehearse and perform during the semester, with the last session, after the final concert, being a classroom gathering for MUS 148/248 students to give presentations based in assignments from the Music Director.

Rehearsals are mandatory for all musicians and include two sectional rehearsals each semester. If you must miss a rehearsal, you are responsible for notifying your section leader in advance.

Parking is available for free in the B lot and in the Dawes Ave garage.

I am in high school. Can I get dual-enrollment credit?

Yes! Students may receive simultaneous high school and college credit by taking Northern Virginia Community College courses MUS 148 or MUS 248. Contact your school counselor for details.