Prelude String Orchestra

Directed by Michael McLean

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. $150 per semester. 

PRELUDE - WINTER 2026

January 13 - March 17 | Tuesdays, 5:45-6:45 pm

Concert on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 7:00 pm

Prelude is an early orchestra experience for players of all ages. Members should have at least one year 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. 

Sinfonia String Orchestra

Directed by Michael McLean

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

Sinfonia String Orchestra takes place on Tuesdays at the Traverse City Philharmonic Center. $150 per semester.  

Sinfonia String Orchestra- WINTER 2026

January 13 - March 17 | Tuesdays, 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Concert on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 7:00 pm

Sinfonia is an advanced string orchestra for players of violin, viola, cello, and bass. Members must possess solid technical and music-reading skills. Typical members will have studied a minimum of 4 years, have a private instructor, and play in school, church or other community ensembles. 

"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: 7:00 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: 7:00 Tuesday August 3, Civic Center Stage

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 7:00 pm at the Civic Center Stage.