The Civic Orchestra dates its inception to 1983, when some of the members of the Hampton Orchestra decided to break away and form a new orchestra, under the leadership of Charles Barber, who conducted for the first couple of seasons. This season of 2008-2009 we celebrate a quarter century of performing for Victoria area audiences, and Concert 2 will be dedicated to and conducted by Mr. Barber.
The next conductor of the Civic Orchestra was Stuart Knussen, followed by Robert Cooper. In Concert 1 we will perform works previously presented under the baton of the first three conductors.
Over the years, the players have enjoyed as guest conductors the different musical ideas and styles of Jean-Marie Kent, Janos Sandor, John French, Charles Job and Yariv Aloni. Dr. George Corwin has led the orchestra for about 10 years.
At any one time playing members number about 50, and come from many backgrounds for the common purpose of enjoying making music together.
The orchestra has played at several venues in the Greater Victoria area, as well as in Duncan, Nanaimo and Arbutus Ridge. At one time exchange visits with a choir in Washington State took place. The annual Sing-along Messiah is the Civic’s biggest crowd pleaser.
The orchestra makes an effort to offer opportunities for gifted soloists to showcase their talents – particularly the youth of Victoria. The 2006/07 season featured young dancers as well as youth talented on various stringed instruments and piano.
In the 2007-2008 season "Northern Voices" the orchestra commissioned 3 new works by composers resident in the Greater Victoria area.
Financial needs are funded through member subscriptions, donations both large and small, and grants from various organizations. Tax receipts are provided for donations.
If you are interested in supporting the orchestra or finding out more about our organization, please contact us at the address on the Home page. Volunteers are extremely welcome as help is always needed to help keep the organization running smoothly. We would especially like to hear from anyone with experience in managing not-for-profit organizations or with fund-raising experience.
At present, the orchestra rehearses Sunday afternoons at 1:30 p.m., at Centennial United Church, Gorge Road at David.
