The Macalester Orchestra is a select ensemble of 50-60 students conducted by Assistant Professor of Music, Mark Mandarano. The orchestra plays two to three concerts a semester and its repertoire spans the 18th through the 21st century. Recent concerts have included Dvorak’s New World Symphony, Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony, Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain and Sibelius’ Second Symphony. The Macalester Orchestra rehearses on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 4:45-6 p.m. in the Concert Hall and some Fridays at that same time. In addition to guest artists, student soloists are given the opportunity to play concerto movements in the annual Concerto Contest held in the spring.

Instrumental Auditions (Orchestra and CHAMBER EnsembleS)

Auditions for incoming students are held during orientation week and auditions for returning students are held the first week of classes.

Additional auditions can be arranged throughout the year upon request. 

For more information, contact Mark Mandarano, mmandara@macalester.edu