WACO ensembles give musicians unique opportunities to make a difference in the community and perform quality repertoire at a high standard. In WACO ensembles, we strive to create the best music possible as we fulfil our mission, changing lives through music. To ensure our ensembles are of a high standard and to give everyone a fair opportunity, all potential members must audition.
Deciding to join WACO was the best decision I have ever made. The ensembles have such a friendly and supporting atmosphere both inside and outside of rehearsals. I have made many lifelong friends through WACO and recommend joining to anyone who wants to keep music in their lives. – Mathew Leak, Trumpet & Voice
As a member of the WACO you will have the opportunity to be a part of a friendly community of enthusiastic and talented musicians. The ensembles perform a wide variety of repertoire that is carefully selected to not only entertain audiences, but engage, challenge, reward and enrich the performer.
WACO ensembles are the most enjoyable and challenging groups I have ever played in. We perform such a wide variety of music, from popular pieces such as Harry Potter and Wicked to classics by the likes of Tchaikovsky and Mozart, and that was just in one concert! Before I joined WACO I would never have thought I would perform the entirety of Beethoven 9, but we did, and it was one of the best musical experiences I’ve ever had. – Anne Phillips, Oboe & Voice
All of our ensembles are lead by WACO’s founder and music director, Samuel Parry. A multi-instrumentalist and experienced musician, Sam brings an encouraging and inspiring approach to conducting and motivates the ensembles to reach a high standard in every performance.
Sam Parry is not only an incredible musician and musical director, but also a joy to work with. His high expectations and goals for each rehearsal and performance are achieved in an encouraging, stress free environment. Sam’s vision offers players a once in a lifetime opportunity for many members and we love being a part of it. – Ingrid Waters, Horn & Voice
WA Chamber Choir & WACO Choir
Vocal Applications Close – Friday 8th November 2019
Vocal Auditions – Saturday 9th & Saturday 16th November 2019
WA Wind Symphony
Principal Applications Close – Friday 6th September 2019
Principal Auditions – Saturday 21st September 2019
Tutti Applications Close – Friday 27th September 2019
Tutti Auditions – Saturday 12th October 2019
WA Charity Orchestra
Applications for 2019 will remain open until all vacancies are filled. Applications for 2020 will open in February 2020.
WACO Choir & WA Chamber Choir
WA Wind Symphony
WA Charity Orchestra
A generous Perth musician recently donated a beautiful viola to the WA Charity Orchestra. We are offering this viola to a violinist to borrow free of charge in the form of a scholarship for the WACO April 2019-2020 season.
Violinists who have already auditioned for the orchestra are welcome to apply. Violinists who have not auditioned for the April 2019-2020 season are also encouraged to apply, but will need to complete a violin audition to demonstrate their level of musicianship before being considered for the viola scholarship.
WACO Viola Scholarship Application Form
Applications will remain open until a recipient is confirmed.
Following a successful audition, individuals are required to pay a fee to become members and participate in their awarded ensemble(s). Membership entitles an individual to participate in as many ensembles for which they qualify.
Full membership is $180. To only participate in the summer program the fee is $50. Family discounts are available.
“Playing with WACO is an amazing part of my musical journey. To have met so many likeminded people who love music as much as I do is simply mind-blowing. And to be able to share it and help others at the same time is something really truly special.”
