University of Washington Symphony Orchestra

Musen 300/500

The UW Symphony is the top orchestral ensemble on campus, performing major symphonic literature and presenting six to seven concerts per year (an average of two per quarter).

The orchestra is made up of music majors and non majors alike. Seating auditions are held at the start of each academic year; seating rotates throughout the year. The ensemble is open to both undergrads and graduate students.

Non music majors who may not be enrolled in lessons with faculty are welcome and are strongly encouraged to participate!

Under the leadership of Dr. Rahbee since the fall of 2013, the UW Symphony has performed over 180 works, spanning from the early baroque through contemporary. The orchestra collaborates regularly with distinguished faculty soloists as well as with members of the Seattle Symphony and other local and national arts organizations, and performs annually with the combined university choirs. Performances are given in Gerlich Theater (formerly known as Meany Theater), and occasionally at Benaroya Hall. 

The UW Symphony has been nationally recognized with numerous awards from The American Prize non-profit competitions in the performing arts. Winner of the 2021 American Prize in orchestral performance (small program, college/university division), the orchestra has placed in the finals in the category of orchestral performance for each of the last three seasons, and in the category of orchestral programming for the past six seasons.

Rehearsals are Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30 pm - 6:00 pm in Meany 268 (Friday rehearsals at 3:30 pm are held only on concert days).