FAQ

ACO at a glance

  • What: a volunteer-driven, no-audition community orchestra

  • Where: Amsterdam

  • Who: about 30 musicians from over 10 nationalities, of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels, plus a wider community of 300+ friends and followers

  • Format: one season a year: 8 rehearsals, ending in a public concert

  • Track record: 8 seasons so far. Most recently Season 8, “Sounds of the Seasons”, performed in March 2026 at House of Woodstock, Amsterdam Noord

  • How to join: fill in the Join the orchestra form

Is there an English-speaking amateur orchestra in Amsterdam?

Yes. The ACO is an international community orchestra in Amsterdam, with about 30 musicians from over 10 nationalities. We connect musicians from all around the world who are part of the local community here, and you don’t need to audition to join.

Do I need to audition?

No. There are no auditions. The orchestra is open to everyone, and we want to keep it that way.

What level do I need to be?

There is no minimum level. Musicians of all skill levels are welcome, including people returning to their instrument after a break. We do ask that you practise your part a few times before rehearsals, so we can make the most of our time together.

Which instruments can join?

Violin, viola, cello, double bass, piano, keyboard, percussion and drum kit. Rehearsals are led by a conductor.

How long is a season?

We run one season a year. Each season has 8 rehearsals and ends with a public concert. Every season has a new theme, from film scores to well-known classics and everything in between.

Where do you rehearse, and what happens at a rehearsal?

Rehearsal venues change from season to season. Once you’ve registered, we’ll email you the next steps and the details of each rehearsal. Every rehearsal is led by a local conductor: we start with introductions and a warm-up, work on the season programme, and finish with drinks, food and stories together.

Is there a fee?

Yes, there is a small fee per season. It covers studio rental, sheet music and refreshments. The orchestra is self-funded by its members, and musicians are not paid to perform.

Can I join for just one season?

Yes. You sign up season by season, so you can join one season and decide later about the next.

How do I join?

Fill in the Join the orchestra form. We’ll email you when applications open for the next season, and you can register from there.

When is your next concert?

Every season ends with a public concert. Our most recent was “Sounds of the Seasons” in March 2026 at House of Woodstock, Amsterdam Noord. To hear about the next one first, sign up to our newsletter at the bottom of this page.

I’m not a musician. Can I come and watch?

Of course, we’d love to see you there. Sign up to our newsletter at the bottom of this page and we’ll email you the concert details.

How can I support the ACO?

Come to a concert, bring a friend and spread the word. You can find more ways to help on our Support the ACO page. Businesses can also partner with us, as Very Goods Studio and Lemonaid & ChariTea have. See our Partnerships page.

Can you perform at private functions?

We’re open to all kinds of collaborations. For bookings, enquiries or suggestions, email us at amscommunityorchestra@gmail.com or call +31 6 5114 3518.

Black-and-white photo of cellists playing from music stands during an ACO rehearsal