"Powerful and imaginative, music written for video games has become part of our popular culture. Appreciation for video game music is strong among fans and musicians alike. Explore the fun and challenging world of video game music in the 8-week string orchestra Civic Summer Pops Sessions, June 16-August 3, 2026."

Rehearsals: 5:45-6:45 pm Tuesdays June 16 - July 28 at the Traverse City Philharmonic Center

Concert: 6:00 pm Monday August 3, Civic Center Stage

"Powerful and imaginative, music written for video games has become part of our popular culture. Appreciation for video game music is strong among fans and musicians alike. Explore the fun and challenging world of video game music in the 8-week string orchestra Civic Summer Pops Sessions, June 16-August 3, 2026."

Rehearsals: 7:00-8:30 pm Tuesdays June 16 - July 28 at the Traverse City Philharmonic Center

Concert: 6:00 pm Tuesday August 3, Civic Center Stage

Single Day Parent and Baby Drop in 

Have a child who loves music? Join us for our “Parent and Baby Class” taught by local music educator, Kristi Fish. Children will have fun exploring music in a hands-on way as we listen, sing, move, chant, play instruments, and more! ​Not just for littles, parents will also learn how to incorporate music into the everyday life of your tiny musician; whether it’s chanting, singing silly songs, or rhythmic call and response, music can help in all areas of learning and development. 

Saturdays, June 27 July 18, 25, August 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29

No classes July 4 and July 11

10:30 - 11:00 am

Calling all high school and adult cellists! The Traverse City Philharmonic Civic Program is offering a 4-week Cello Club in July 2026. This is a unique opportunity to play cello ensemble repertoire in an all-cello orchestra with mellow cello fellows from your community. Participants should be in 9th grade or older, possess solid technical and music-reading skills and have studied a minimum of 3+ years.  

Rehearsals are 5:45 - 6:45 pm on Tuesdays July 7, 14, 21 & 26 at the Traverse City Philharmonic Center. 

The concert will by Monday, August 3 at 6:00 pm at the Civic Center Stage. 

This offering is for adults with little to no prior musical experience who are interested in learning how to play a band instrument. We’ll cover the fundamentals of reading music, proper instrument handling, basic technique, and ensemble playing. With support from TC Philharmonic artist educators, this 10-week class will foster a supportive environment, encouraging adults to develop their musical skills while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow learners. No previous musical knowledge is required—just a willingness to learn and have fun!

Schedule: Saturdays 10:00 am - 11:00 am 

Sept 12, 19, 26

Oct 3, 10, 17, 31

Nov 7, 21

NO Rehearsal Oct 24 and Nov 14

Concert Sunday 3:00 pm Nov 22 

This offering is for adults with at least one year of experience on their band and wanting to continue to grow their technique. We’ll continue to cover the fundamentals of reading music, proper instrument handling, more advanced techniques, and ensemble playing. With support from TC Philharmonic artist educators, this 10-week class will foster a supportive environment, encouraging adults to continue developing their musical skills while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow learners. 

Schedule: Wednesdays 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm 

Sept 16, 23, 30

Oct 7, 14, 21, 28

Nov 4, 11, and 18

Concert Wednesday 7:00 pm Nov 18

Prelude String Orchestra

Directed by Lynne Tobin

The Traverse City Philharmonic Civic String Orchestra programs provide the opportunity for community string instrumentalists to play in a non-professional orchestra with musicians of all ages.  

Prelude String Orchestra takes place on Tuesdays at the Traverse City Philharmonic Center. $175 per semester (session). 

PRELUDE - FALL 2026

September 22* - December 1, 2026 | Tuesdays, 5:45-6:45 pm

Concert on Tuesday, December 1, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at TC Central High School Auditorium 

Winter 2027

January 12 - March 16 | Tuesdays 5:45-6:45 pm

Concert on Tuesday , March 16, 2027, at 7:00 p.m. at TC Central High School Auditorium 

Prelude is an early orchestra experience for players of all ages. Members should have at least two years of instruction and be able to play the notes on all 4 strings. This ensemble may also be a great entry point for adult beginners or those who have been away from their instruments for a number of years. 

*Auditions are September 15, but rehearsals begin September 22. The registration dates include the audition date, but if you are not auditioning, your start date will be September 22nd.

Audition Information
Auditions for placement in either Sinfonia or Prelude String Orchestra will be held Tuesday, September 15, 4-7 p.m. at Traverse City Philharmonic Center. Please email cms@tcphil.org, or call (231) 947-7120 ext. 5, to schedule an audition. Please prepare a scale and solo that demonstrates your highest level of playing. Returning members do not need to audition unless you would like to move to a different ensemble or if you would like a leadership position.