Seattle
Open
Orchestra

We're not your typical community orchestra.

The Seattle Open Orchestra (SOO) is an inclusive, community-led ensemble for experimental, improvised, contemporary, and otherwise adventurous music-making. There are no auditions, and musicians of all ages and experience levels are welcome. Whether you’re an experienced performer, returning to an instrument after years away, just beginning to play, or looking for new creative challenges, SOO is a place to make music, experiment, and learn together.

We go beyond the traditional orchestral repertoire and the usual rules of orchestral performance. Our music includes experimental and contemporary works, graphic and text-based scores, group improvisation, participatory and open-ended pieces, and rarely heard music from the distant past. We’re interested not only in what we play, but in how we play together—and in discovering new sounds, ideas, and ways of making music as a community.

SOO is community-led and radically open. There is no expectation that you already know how to improvise or have experience with experimental music. You don’t need to be a professional musician, a music student, or an expert reader. You just need an instrument, a willingness to participate, and an open mind.

Come play with us.

Whether you’re looking for a new musical community, want to try something outside the traditional orchestra, or simply want to make music with other people, we’d love to have you.

No auditions. All skill levels. Experimental music. Everyone welcome.

You can register your interest at this link:
https://forms.gle/LfeV4C8tBnt63xkaA

Practical Info:

(Nearly) Every Other Saturday
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
University of Washington
Meany Center for the Performing Arts, Room 268
4040 George Washington Lane Northeast, Seattle, WA 98195
https://music.washington.edu/facilities/meany-268

See our Rehearsal Schedule for exact rehearsal dates.