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Although most players live in the West Island boroughs, others travel to rehearsals and concerts from west of the island, Montreal and the South Shore. Owing to the mobility of the suburban population, the personnel often change; this requires a constant search for good instrumentalists but the orchestra has been fortunate in attracting competent representation in all its sections. For performances of works requiring special instrumentation the orchestra is augmented with invited players. Thus the repertoire has sometimes extended beyond that usual for chamber orchestras.
The connections of the orchestra with various educational institutions, notably Lindsay Place High School, have provided an opportunity for advanced students to join. The experience gives the young people an extracurricular experience of the orchestral repertoire and the enjoyment of making music for pleasure.
Members of the orchestra share a concept of providing a local community activity for interested players. Applicants should be reasonably proficient and are expected to be diligent in attendance and self-improvement. Enjoyment, enthusiasm and continued interest, as well as ability, are the most important qualifications.
Rehearsals are held in Pointe Claire on Wednesday evenings. Anyone wishing to join the orchestra is invited to contact Pam Benckhuysen at (514) 426-1904 for more information.
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