Join Us!
The Toronto Community Orchestra is an amateur ensemble, run by volunteers. Our members are from all across Toronto. Rehearsals are on Tuesdays from 7:30pm to 9:30pm in the east end of Toronto on the subway line. All performances also take place on Tuesday evenings. Members are expected to attend all rehearsals and perform at the concerts unless absence is unavoidable due to extenuating circumstances.
Current Vacancies
We currently have the following openings:
Strong Double Bassist
Percussionist
Spaces may become available for other instruments during the year.
Feel welcome to email torontocommunityorchestra@gmail.com to join our waitlist. Please include information such as your instrument, years of playing, performance background, RCM level if applicable, and prior experience in playing in an orchestra.
While we are a mostly non-auditioned orchestra, because of our limited number of wind and brass players, those wishing to join will need to be comfortable enough to play solo parts and “try out” to see if they are a good fit for the orchestra.
Membership Information
RehearsalsRehearsals are on Tuesdays from 7:30pm to 9:30pm in the east end of Toronto by Greenwood and Danforth Aves (800 Greenwood Ave). There are usually enough music stands in the room for us to use/share but members may bring their own music stands.
Rehearsals begin promptly at 7:30pm, please plan to arrive at 7:15pm to set up and warm up.
TCO performs two concerts per year, one at the end of each term. Admission to our concerts is by pay-what-you-can donation. Members do not sell tickets. All performances also take place on Tuesday evenings.
Our membership fee is $140 for the fall term (September – December) and $160 the winter/spring term (January – May).
Payment is due at the first rehearsal of the term by cash, cheque, or e-transfer.
- Cheques are to be made payable to Toronto Community Orchestra.
- E-transfers to the TCO Treasurer must include an additional $1.25 for bank fees (charged per transaction).
Please consult our members handbook for further information about the orchestra.
It’s fun!
The TCO provides a welcoming atmosphere to musicians from all backgrounds. And no matter how hard we are working on a piece, there is always time for a little fun.
Enjoy a varied repertoire
Our repertoire is primarily classical but we also do some more contemporary works. Our repertoire team works hard to put together programs that are challenging yet manageable.
Meet new people
The TCO is a welcoming group for people of all backgrounds and professions united by our love of music. You will meet lots of new people and maybe make some new friends.
Giving back to the community
The TCO is an enthusiastic amateur orchestra run by volunteers. We perform two free concerts for the public per season at our preferred concert venue bringing the community together.
Keep your mind active
Studies have shown that playing a musical instrument increases brain and memory function at all ages. Maybe the same is true just by listening to music on a regular basis – who knows? Actually, did you know that Einstein was an avid music enthusiast?
Express yourself
George Bernard Shaw said it best: “You use a glass mirror to see your face. You use works of art to see your soul.” Playing in an orchestra is a great way to build your creativity and express yourself -and if you come out to listen, we will share a piece our soul with you.
Relax & unwind
Although we work hard during our rehearsals, many of us look forward to coming to the orchestra every week as a way to escape the day-to-day and enjoy the time to focus on the music.
We work hard all season long so that we can take our audience on a captivating musical journey on concert night!
Challenge yourself
Just because we are a largely non-auditioned group and most of us are amateurs doesn’t mean we only play easy pieces. Joining us sure is a commitment, but it’s oh so worth it.
Be part of a team
One of the most magical moments as an orchestral musician is when you hear everything coming together as one. It is a team effort that results in something bigger than just the sum of individual parts. Performing in front of an audience makes it even more special!
Stay motivated
Playing an instrument is rewarding, but it also requires a lot of work and dedication. Playing in an orchestra can help with finding motivation to practice regularly and expanding your repertoire.
Seeing a big audience at our concerts is so rewarding for each of us – and goes a long way in carrying you through rehearsing that next difficult section.
Executive Members
Nick Arrigo
Conductor / Artistic Director
Tina Kresse (Violin I)
Co-Chair, Administration, Members Services, Web Design & Social Media
Fong Di Caterina (Violin II)
Co-Chair, Business Services & Communications
Brendon Phillips (Flute)
Music Coordinator
Susan Ross (Violin II)
Treasurer
Sharon Scanlan (Violin II)
Graphic Design & Advertising Coordinator
Paniz Ghazanfari (Piano/Keyboard)
LTC Home Outreach Coordinator
