Main
The Main Ensemble is a non-audition, full symphony orchestra that consists of over one hundred members who choose the semester’s repertoire, conductors, and leadership. CSO Main has a relaxed environment that’s perfect for people who want to keep up their passion for music without the stress of a high time commitment. Main is the original CSO ensemble and remains the heart of the orchestra. We accept all skill levels, so any company is welcome!
Repertoire
Voted on by the orchestra
Moderate difficulty (approx. grade 3-5)
Fall 2025 Repertoire:
“Egmont” Overture, Op. 84 — Ludwig van Beethoven
Marche slave, Op. 31 — Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
“Run Free” from the motion picture Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron — Hans Zimmer\
Rolling River (Sketches on “Shenandoah”) — Peter Boyer
Membership Requirements
No audition required
Dues: $25 per semester / $35 per year
Attendance: May miss no more than two rehearsals to be eligible to play in the concert.
Philharmonic
The Philharmonic Ensemble is an auditioned, smaller group of about thirty-five members. The ensemble plays either more challenging music or pops pieces - it all depends on what the ensemble wants. Note that all members of the Philharmonic Ensemble must also be members of the Main Ensemble.
Repertoire
Voted on by the orchestra
Fall 2025 Repertoire:
Selections from Peer Gynt Suite No. 1 — Edvard Grieg
Rehearsal Time
Rehearses for one hour directly after Main Ensemble rehearsals, from 2pm - 3pm
Membership Requirements
Must also pay dues and fill out the membership form.
Chamber
Chamber Groups are small ensembles of 2-10 members that play music with a unique style or instrumentation. Members of a Chamber Group select their own repertoire, decide on a practice schedule, and have at a variety of unique performance opportunities. Chamber Groups are open to anyone, including players who are not members of the CSO Main Ensemble. We are always looking to form new groups!
Previous Groups
Jazz band - “The Bumpin Somethins”
Classical string quartet “All Strings Considered”
String quintets
Flute choir
Saxophone quartet
Trombone quartet - “The Bone Zone”
Past Performance Venues and Partnerships
CSO Spring 2024 Chamber Concert
The Brown College Arts and Music Festival (BAM)
Swing Club at UVA
Weddings
BBQ & Jazz nights at the CSO house
Intermission of CSO Main & Phil concerts
And other prior performances
Interested?
Contact our Chamber Director, Clayton Hilt with questions about joining a chamber ensemble.
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