Preston Symphony Orchestra has players from the local area and further afield, with a diverse range of day jobs, ages and backgrounds. A Committee elected by members of the orchestra runs the orchestra on a day-to-day basis and the views of players are sought as much as possible in decision-making.
Players pay a membership fee, either annually or per concert, to cover the cost of venue and music hire.
Vacancies currently exist for double bass, tuba, timpani and percussion !!
Inquiries are welcome for winds and brass should a vacancy arise. More violins and violas can generally be accommodated.
There are no auditions, but players should have reached at least Grade 5 AMEB or equivalent and have good sight-reading skills. Experience in ensemble playing is very useful.
Concerts
The orchestra performs 4 concerts a year, each preceded by 8 rehearsals over 7 weeks. Repertoire ranges from major Romantic symphonies to the premieres of new Australian works.
Fees
All players are required to pay an annual membership fee to the Preston Symphony Orchestra of $10, in addition to concert fees. Concert fees depend on the number of concerts played, with concession rates available for players not working full-time, retired or under 25.
Concert fees are currently $170 for the season of 4 concerts, or $50 per concert; concession fees are $90 for the whole season, or $25 per concert.
Rehearsals
All rehearsals are at 7.30pm – 10.00pm. Please arrive by 7.20pm to set up in time.
The rehearsal schedule for the concerts in 2026 is outlined in the table below.
| Date & venue | Rehearsals | |
| Concert 1 | March 22, Preston City Hall | Tuesdays Dates to be announced |
| Concert 2 | June 21, Preston City Hall | Tuesdays Dates to be announced |
| Concert 3 | Sept 13, Preston City Hall | Tuesdays Dates to be announced |
| Concert 4 | Nov 22, Preston City Hall | Tuesdays Dates to be announced |
If you are interested in joining the orchestra for one or more concerts, please email:
(Email address is hidden)
