Oxford University Orchestra
Manager: Kilian Meißner
Do you audition?
Yes, as part of OUMS - find out more here
What is the usual rehearsal schedule?
7-10pm, twice a week (Tues & Thurs)
What's the conductor like?
OUO is special because we work with a different professional conductor each term, which is a fantastic opportunity - and they're all great!
When do you perform?
Usually in 5th week, at the Sheldonian Theatre
Where can I buy tickets for the next concert?
Where can I find more information?
Oxford University Orchestra (OUO) is the University’s premier student ensemble. It has provided decades of top-class opportunities to players at the University of Oxford, impressing audiences from the University community, Oxford area and beyond. The orchestra is the flagship ensemble of OUMS, and as such, its instrumentalists are selected from the very best the University has to offer, including a large number of former members of the National Youth Orchestra and BBC Young Musician finalists. The orchestra runs intensive rehearsals each term culminating in a high-calibre concert in Oxford, usually in the Sheldonian Theatre. By popular demand, the orchestra has performed in locations across the UK.
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To complement its extraordinarily talented student members, OUO is always led by a professional conductor, and regularly uses professional soloists. Previous conductors include Natalia Luis-Bassa, Daniel Harding, Peter Stark, Douglas Boyd and Jason Lai. As soloists, OUO has showcased Steven Isserlis, Anthony Marwood, Simon Preston, Raphael Wallfisch, Guy Johnston and Thomas Trotter. OUO is fortunate enough to include Steven Isserlis, Midori, and Ian Bostridge among its patrons.
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Funded by ticket sales, the University, the Oxford University Music Society, and generous private donors (see the Friends of OUO scheme), the orchestra aims to tackle ambitious and entertaining programmes. Recent rep includes Shostakovich’s 10th Symphony, Mahler’s 1st Symphony, Bartok’s Concerto for Orchestra, Messiaen’s Turangalila Symphonie, and Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring, as well as many other grand works.
OUO Exec Committee
The key people behind the scenes of OUO - get in touch with any questions!
