How to Join or Play with the Civic Orchestra of Victoria

The Civic Orchestra of Victoria (COV) is a volunteer orchestra that welcomes musicians of varying ages and abilities, and the main route to playing with it is to email the orchestra before attending a rehearsal. For the 2026–2027 season, the orchestra has posted a vacancy for Principal Violist and says it is always looking for capable string players. String section positions are non-auditioned, but the orchestra recommends strong music reading skills, at least three years of performance experience, and some large ensemble experience. All players are volunteers, and playing requires membership in the organization, with fees applying.

Who can apply

The orchestra describes itself as open to adults of all ages and backgrounds, and its stated purpose is to give musicians of varying ages and abilities the chance to perform a wide repertoire for supportive audiences in the Capital Regional District of Victoria, BC, Canada.

For the current season, the orchestra lists:

• Principal Violist — applications invited, effective immediately
• String section players — the orchestra says it is always looking for capable string musicians; these are non-auditioned positions

The orchestra's recommendations for string applicants:

How to apply or express interest

1. Email the orchestra first. The published contact address is [email protected]. The orchestra asks interested musicians to email this address for more information, and specifically asks that you contact the orchestra and provide some information about yourself before attending a rehearsal.
2. State your interest and background. For the Principal Violist position, the orchestra invites applications by email. For general string interest, describe your playing background so the orchestra can assess fit.
3. Review the orchestra's documents before joining. The orchestra recommends reviewing its rehearsal schedule, attendance policy, and roles and responsibilities documents prior to joining. The site indicates these can be found through a link on the page.
4. Wait for a response before showing up. Because the orchestra asks for contact before attending a rehearsal, treat the email exchange as the step that confirms whether and when you can come.

What to expect once you're in

• Season shape: The orchestra usually performs four concerts each year, with rehearsals starting in September and ending by late May.
• Rehearsal venue: Listed as the Dave Dunnet Theatre.
• Concert venues: Listed as the Dave Dunnet Theatre and United Commons (First Met.).
• Season context: The 2026–2027 season is described as "43 Years of Making Music," the orchestra having been inaugurated in 1983.
• Player information: Current players can check the Players' Page for a schedule and calendar with 2026–2027 season dates.

Common sticking points

• Assuming you can just turn up. The orchestra explicitly asks interested persons to contact it and share information before attending a rehearsal, so email first.
• Treating "non-auditioned" as "no expectations." The string positions don't require an audition, but the orchestra still recommends strong reading skills and roughly three years of performance experience.
• Overlooking membership and fees. Playing in the orchestra requires membership in the organization, and the site states that fees apply. The published page does not list amounts, so ask about current fees when you email.
• Missing the vacancy window. Openings such as Principal Violist are posted as they arise; check the site's vacancies section and the Players' Page for current listings and season dates.

Quick reference

• Contact: [email protected]
• Current posted vacancy: Principal Violist
• Always sought: Capable string section musicians (non-auditioned)
• Recommended background: Strong music reading, ~3 years performance experience, large ensemble experience an asset
• Required: Membership in the organization; fees apply
• Season: Four concerts per year; rehearsals September to late May
• Before rehearsing: Contact the orchestra and review the rehearsal schedule, attendance policy, and roles and responsibilities documents