Answers to some frequently asked questions! Question not answered? Please submit your question here.
When/where is rehearsal?
The EMSO season is September through May. Weekly rehearsals are Tuesday evenings from 6pm-8pm in the Orchestra Rehearsal Room at East Ridge High School in Woodbury, Minnesota unless otherwise specified.
Dress rehearsals are typically the day before the concert. Concert dress is not required at dress rehearsals.
How many concerts are performed each season?
Schedules vary, but most seasons consist of 5 concerts held September through May.
Does EMSO have an email list?
Yes, EMSO is launching its email list in the second half of the 2011-2012 season. If you are interested in joining our email list, please fill out the form here.
Do I need to audition to be part of EMSO?
If you are interested in joining EMSO, an audition may be necessary, but they are typically pretty rare. Please contact personnel@emsorch.org for more information.
What type of music does EMSO play?
EMSO is a traditional symphony orchestra and plays classical music, although we do not limit ourselves to that genre alone. The EMSO serves the eastern twin cities metro area. One of the wonderful opportunities this provides is meeting remarkable individuals and organizations in our area and creating and establishing performing and educational partnerships with them. Our 2010-2011 season alone included partnerships with the Woodbury Dance Center, Woodbury Community Theatre, the South Washington County School District orchestra program, the choirs of New Life and King of Kings Churches as well as the New Life Academy, and the Bavarian Musikmeisters German folk music ensemble. As we continue to meet our neighbors in the east metro we are able to develop fascinating performance and education projects that not only create interesting performances for our audiences, but create unique experiences for our community partners as well as our own orchestra members! Do you have ideas for a great east metro partner? Contact us!
Are EMSO concerts suitable for children and families?
Yes! EMSO concerts can be enjoyed by all ages, and our relaxed, often interactive programs are suitable for everyone, whether you are experienced with orchestra music or not. Some concerts are free and others may offer reduced ticket prices for children. EMSO concerts aim to be not only enjoyable but also educational for all audience members.
Where are EMSO concerts held?
EMSO concerts are held at various locations throughout the east metro. Past locations have included East Ridge High School and Woodbury Lutheran Church. Please review the Current Season Schedule for the current concert venue information.
What is concert dress (for performers and audience)?
Performance attire for orchestra members is black tuxedos for men, all black for women. Casual attire is welcome for audience members.
What is the expected member donation?
All full-time members are asked to make a donation to the orchestra (the suggested minimum donation is $75). Returning members should make their donation in the fall. New members can make their donation after their first concert.
How else can I get involved with EMSO?
Volunteering! EMSO thrives because of its members and supporters; you can participate in a variety of ways:
Publicity - All orchestra members are expected to help with publicity. You will be asked to distribute and post concert flyers to local businesses and organizations you customarily deal with, send email invitations to friends, family and colleagues, and promote the sale of concert tickets. Contact publicity@emsorch.org to learn how you can help (or sign up on our Contact Us page).
Financial Support - EMSO operates on a very lean budget and can use any and all financial support. We encourage you to help bring in monetary support from friends and family, businesses, and your places of employment (which may have a program to provide funds to organizations supported by employees). EMSO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and all donations (including yours) made to the orchestra are fully tax deductible. If you are interested in making a donation to EMSO please contact us.
Time and expertise - EMSO benefits from the assistance of its members and friends to carry out all of its administrative tasks and duties, many of which may correlate to their interests and expertise. These may be one-time tasks, service on committees, serving on the board, and identifying other individuals, organizations, and businesses that might be able to support the orchestra with their service. If you are interested in donating your time and expertise to EMSO, please contact us.