NWSO Members Resource

Web page providing information for NWSO members.

The opportunity to participate in the Northwest Symphony Orchestra requires a serious commitment on the part of the musicians. Cooperation set forth will help meet the demands of the music and the artistic level to which we all aspire as an orchestra and achieve a rewarding experience for all members of the orchestra, our colleagues, clients, and audience. Your hard work and dedication are greatly appreciated.

Policies and procedures are documented in the NWSO Handbook. Members of the organization, please print, sign, and submit the Handbook Signature document.

Absences

Scheduled absences

  • If you have a scheduled absence either for a rehearsal or a concert, please communicate your absence as soon possible so we can plan accordingly. Your notification will help with string section seating and ensure parts are covered.

Unscheduled absence

For unscheduled absences, e.g., illness, late work hours, etc., and to report tardiness, you may call or text the Morven Balmidiano, Logistics Manager at (425) 213-6492. Please remember to leave your name and please do not text & drive. 

String Section seat rotation

Except for principal chairs, seating is assigned on a rotating basis. Last minute personnel changes typically occur so a print out of seating assignments can only be available at the start of a concert's first rehearsal. A printed copy of seat assignments will be placed on your string principal’s chair. Check out the list at the start of the first rehearsal to reference your seat assignment.

Teacher's CEU / Clock Hours

CEU / Clock Hours are available for educators who are members of NWSO, to be used for teacher certification renewal and district salary schedules. Clock Hours are issued through the Washington Music Educators Association (WMEA) at the level of one clock hour per hour of rehearsal or performance. For more information, see Stephanie Hellekson (1st Violin).

INCLEMENT WEATHER

In case of inclement weather, decisions will be made by 5:45 pm the day of rehearsal or concert and an e-mail will be sent to you.

standard rehearsal

All rehearsals are considered mandatory. The dress rehearsal is the last rehearsal before a concert. Therefore, attendance is mandatory. 

  • Standard Rehearsal Times
    NOTE: Times may change due to rehearsal requirement

    • Rehearsal Call Time: 6:50 PM

    • Downbeat: 7:00 PM

    • End: 9:30 PM

  • Standard Rehearsal Location

    Mercer Island High School
    Music Bldg, Room 500
    9100 SE 42nd St, Mercer Island, WA 98040 (Google Map)
    Parking at 92nd Ave SE & SE 41st St. (see map below)

concert week schedule

  • Concert Week Time Schedule

    • Rehearsal Call Time: 6:50 PM

    • Downbeat: 7:00 PM

    • End Time: 9:45 PM

    • Dress rehearsals are at the concert location, except Benaroya Hall.

rehearsal and concert locations

CONCERT ATTIRE

The dress code described is standard concert attire for symphony orchestras.

  • Women

    • You are free to wear a polished black outfit of your choice but it should meet the requirements listed below

    • Long black dress or long black skirt/dress pants

      • Mid length black skirt or dress worn with black hose stockings

      • If you choose this option please select a skirt or dress with length below the knees when seated

    • Black blouse

      • Elbow length or longer (preferred)

      • Please avoid spaghetti strap style top

    • Black shoes, black stockings

    • Unobtrusive jewelry

    • Refrain from wearing perfume, cologne or scented hair spray

  • Men

    • Any outfit below with black shoes & black socks

    • Black tuxedo with white tux shirt and black bow tie (preferred)

    • Black suit with white shirt and black bow tie

    • Black suit with black shirt and black tie

    • Refrain from wearing perfume, cologne or scented hair spray

KEY CONTACTS