Musicians of the Orchestra

The musicians who comprise the Orchestra of the Eastern Shore include students, working people from a variety of professions, and retirees. All share a common passion for music making and willingly commit themselves to the discipline of regular practice, rehearsals, and performances that are the work of the Orchestra.

Orchestra musicians live throughout Virginia's Eastern Shore and come together each Monday evening from 7:00 until 9:00 at Hungars Church in Bridgetown (Machipongo). Strings constitute the core of our musician roster, but also included are woodwind, brass, and percussion players who allow us to perform a wider range of repertoire and expand our tonal palette.

The Orchestra's repertoire is grounded primarily in the classical tradition, ranging from the Baroque era to the 20th century and beyond. We are committed to vibrant performances of masterworks by the great composers of the past, but also contiue to perform perform more contemporary works. To showcase the artistry of talented local and regional musicians, we engage them as soloists with the Orchestra.

In addition to their work in the Orchestra, the musicians often play together in smaller ensembles and thus enjoy a wide diversity in repertoire and performance opportunities. Small groups are available to play for church services, weddings, and other gatherings.

How to Join

The orchestra welcomes new string, woodwind, brass, and percussion players with prior orchestral experience. Auditions take place on a rolling basis. Interested players are asked to prepare two short contrasting pieces (or excerpts thereof) of approximately 5 minutes total duration. The audition also includes some sight reading.

If you are interested in joining the Orchestra, please contact us or call Marion Naar at 757‑442‑2821. If you are a singer who would like to join us during our performances with chorus, feel free to contact us as well.