Information for Freshers
This page gives some information about what CUSO is and how to get involved. Some general information about the ‘music scene’ in Cambridge is also available for your delectation: we’ve done our best to make this reasonably impartial (after all, you’ll figure it out soon enough on arrival anyway!).
What is CUSO?
- CUSO, or in all its grandeur the Cambridge University Symphony Orchestra, is Cambridge’s premier student-run symphony orchestra. Founded in 1990 to give the best student conductors a high-quality ensemble of student musicians (entry is by audition only), the orchestra has gone from strength to strength and earned itself a strong reputation in the competitive Cambridge environment.
- Despite this, we have sought never to forget that music-making is (for all of us) a fun activity and welcome relief from the stress of academia. A wide range of social events are organised, including the prestigious Annual Dinner and a pub trip after most rehearsals. CUSO’s high-quality, committed music-making is fostered by a friendly atmosphere rather than a stressful one!
- The orchestra is run entirely by a student committee drawn from the players. This gives the musicians a real say in how CUSO operates, and means that the agenda is always set from within. Final decisions regarding repertoire are made by the conductors in direct consultation with the orchestra as a whole – we believe this to be unique in Cambridge.
- More information about CUSO’s recent and forthcoming activities can be found elsewhere on the site:
Playing with us
- If we’ve tempted you, please note that we will be auditioning players for 2007-08 towards the end of Freshers’ Week. If you are of Grade 8 standard or above and would be interested in playing, please sign up at our stand at the Freshers’ Fair or use the shiny new online audition booking.
- The auditions require performance of a short prepared piece and some sight-reading, and will be taken by current members of the orchestra or the conductors. You are welcome to bring an accompanist but most people make do without, so don’t worry!
Hearing us play
- Our concerts take place once a term at the world-class West Road Concert Hall in Cambridge, with an extra annual performance at St John’s, Smith Square in London. Student tickets are (we hope) attractively priced.
- To make sure you don’t miss a concert be sure to sign up to our mailing list.
- If you’ve any further questions please don’t hesitate to get in touch!