What Is the Civic Orchestra of Victoria?

The Civic Orchestra of Victoria is a volunteer orchestra founded in 1983, based in Victoria, British Columbia. It exists to give musicians of varying ages and abilities the chance to perform a wide range of orchestral music for audiences across the Capital Regional District. If you are looking for a community orchestra to play in, or a local group to hear, the key facts are: it is volunteer-run, it usually stages four concerts per season, and rehearsals run from September through late May.

Who the orchestra is for

The organization describes itself as dedicated to musicians of varying ages and abilities, and it welcomes adults of all ages and backgrounds. That framing matters if you are deciding whether your own experience level fits:

• Strings players are recruited through non-auditioned positions, so there is no formal audition to join those sections.
• The orchestra nonetheless recommends strong music reading skills and at least three years of performance experience.
• Large ensemble experience is described as an asset rather than a requirement.

For a titled position, the process is different. The orchestra has invited applications for Principal Violist, and interested musicians are asked to email the organization directly.

How a season is structured

A typical year follows a predictable rhythm:

The 2026–2027 concert lineup named on the site includes a Remembrance concert, a Sing-along Messiah, a program titled "Passions," and The Yeomen of the Guard. Players can check the Players' Page for the season schedule and calendar with specific dates.

What it costs and what membership involves

All members of the orchestra are volunteers, and playing requires membership in the organization — fees apply. The site does not publish fee amounts, so anyone considering joining should ask directly rather than assume a cost.

Before committing, the orchestra recommends reviewing three documents: the rehearsal schedule, the attendance policy, and the roles and responsibilities guidelines. These are the practical conditions that determine whether the commitment fits your availability.

How to get involved or find out more

1. Review the schedule and policies — check the rehearsal calendar and attendance expectations first, since these shape the weekly commitment.
2. Contact the orchestra before attending a rehearsal. The site asks interested musicians to express interest and share some information about themselves prior to showing up.
3. Email [email protected] for information, or to apply for the Principal Violist position.

The same address is the contact point for general inquiries, so it works for both playing and non-playing questions.

Where performances take place

The site lists the Dave Dunnet Theatre and United Commons (First Met.) among its venues, with the Dave Dunnet Theatre also named as the rehearsal venue. Ticket information sits alongside the concert listings on the site, so check the individual concert pages for purchasing details.

Quick answer for a first-time visitor

If you want to listen: expect roughly four concerts a season, running from the fall into late May, at Victoria-area venues.

If you want to play: strings positions are open without audition, three or more years of performance experience is recommended, membership fees apply, and you should email the orchestra before attending a rehearsal.