We welcome new players in our orchestra. Each season has a distinct repertoire culminating in a concert series, so the beginning of the season is the best time to join. Seasons run for approximately six to nine months.

To join the orchestra, you need to have good reading skills and technique that enables you to express the rhythm and mood of the music. All the orchestra members have taken lessons in some kind of classical music at some point in their lives. Potential new members are asked to contact the Musical Director, Nicola Swinburne, and most will be asked to audition.

Orchestral dues of $75 are charged every three months. Since we are particularly keen to attract guitar and bass players this season, dues are $60 if you play one of these instruments. Low income rates of $60 and $45 are available.

We rehearse in San Francisco, generally on first and third Sundays from 2:45 to 5:00 pm. Before you join the orchestra, you need to make sure that you are able to come to most of the rehearsals. You must also be able to communicate through email. For rehearsal dates, click here.

San Francisco rehearsals are at Bethany United Methodist Church, located at Sanchez and Clipper streets in the heart of Noe Valley, San Francisco. It is BART/Muni accessible, and street parking shouldn't be a problem. See the map for driving directions.

Contact: Musical Director, Nicola Swinburne
Email: nswinburne@mandolinserenade.com
Phone: 510-336-0185