Orchestra

Curricular Orchestras

All of our orchestras are offered as classes.

• String Orchestra: Open to violinists, violists, cellist, bassists, and harpists in all grades, with no prerequisite. However, students should have at least some beginning level experience. Designed for string players who do not desire to audition for higher level orchestras but who want to perfect basic skills of musicianship and technique. All String Orchestra students in grade 10, 11, and 12 are eligible to participate in the performing arts biannual international tour.
• Concert Orchestra: Open to violinists, violists, cellists, bassists, and harpists in all grades. Audition is required, generally at the end of the February/beginning of March for the following school year. Concert orchestra studies repertoire from various styles and periods of history, some original (not arranged). All Concert Orchestra students in grade 10, 11, and 12 are eligible to participate in the performing arts biannual international tour.
• Symphony Orchestra: Open to violinists, violists, cellists, bassists, and harpists in grades 10-12 who play at an advanced level. Audition is required, generally at the end of the February/beginning of March for the following school year. Most students in Symphony Orchestra have several years' experience, and many take private instruction outside of school. All students in Symphony Orchestra are eligible to participate in the performing arts biannual international tour.

ILMEA District Orchestra

Click here for information on auditions for the Illinois Music Educators Association (ILMEA) District Orchestra.

Concerto Competition

The OPRF Concerto Competition is open to any sophomore, junior, or senior instrumentalist or vocalist currently enrolled in a music class at OPRF.  Winners will perform with the Symphony Orchestra at either the March or May concert. Three overall (unranked) winners will be chosen by hired judges not affiliated with any of the contestants. Click here for information about the competition.