Information for Prospective Members
Thank you for your interest in the NIH Community Orchestra! Founded in 1996, we take pride in being a friendly, community-oriented group that encourages the musical growth of its members, as we increase programming of works by underrepresented and living composers. Our concerts also draw from beloved classics: in June 2023, we presented our first American “pops” program with works by Leroy Anderson, Aaron Copland, and Cole Porter.
Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings, Sept.-early June, in the N. Bethesda/Rockville area. 
Concerts are held at the Silver Spring United Methodist Church, and other Montgomery County venues. The NIHCO prepares quality performances for local audiences, while raising funds for NIH Charities.
Singers interested in joining the NIH Community Chorus, please click here.
Orchestra Membership F.A.Q.
Who may join?
NIHCO welcomes amateur musicians from across MD, D.C., and VA. NIH affiliation is not required, but NIH employees, including “postbacs” and retirees, are among our members. Please e-mail NIHCO with your (1) name, (2) instrument, and (3) a brief description of your musical background. The orchestra typically numbers 60-65 members, with a waitlist for most instruments. Openings in 2024: Percussion, Timpani, Harp.
Are there auditions?
Auditions are not required. However, each instrument section’s capacity, concert venue logistics, and ensuring overall tonal balance, all factor into when new members are accepted. Musicians who are invited to join (when openings exist) may attend a rehearsal or two, to gauge their comfort level. NIHCO’s Music Director may coordinate section seatings, and usually assigns parts to wind players.
How much are dues?
Member dues ($100 per season) sustain NIHCO operations, including venue and repertoire rental; and honoraria for our Music Director and any guest artists. Dues also cover NIHCO’s membership in the NIH Recreation and Welfare Association, that provides our insurance coverage and more. Dues can be paid via our Square site, or in person at rehearsal. If full payment poses a hardship, a musician should speak to NIHCO’s Treasurer in confidence.
In what other ways do members contribute?
As an all-volunteer ensemble, NIHCO depends on its members’ involvement, both musically and organizationally. Valuable skill sets to help ensure efficient, successful operations include:
- Expertise in internal and/or external communication and web design;
- Graphic design and publicity, including social media and photography;
- Event-planning, for musicians to socialize and for post-concert receptions;
- Special projects assistance;
- Prior board service (any field) and non-profit management skills.
What are the attendance expectations?
If you plan to play in a concert, you should attend most rehearsals, including the Friday night dress rehearsal. If you need to miss a rehearsal, please inform your section representative. Players should commit time to learning their parts outside of rehearsals.
What is the concert schedule?
NIHCO performs three concerts per season (early Dec., March or April, and early June). A summer chamber music concert may be offered, plus year-round performances by the Bethesda Brass Ensemble (right), featuring NIHCO musicians and friends. Information on our upcoming orchestral and chamber music performances may be found here. Our recent NIHCO repertoire and concert programs are here.
Is there an admission charge at concerts?
NIHCO concerts are free and open to the public. We gratefully accept donations to help support NIH Charities, and orchestral operations.