Requires audition.
About
The Case/University Circle Symphony Orchestra (CUCSO) is an advanced orchestral ensemble open by audition to CWRU students, faculty, and select community members performing on strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion.
The orchestra rehearses twice each week and presents two to three concerts per semester, performing a wide range of repertoire including symphonies, overtures, suites, and contemporary works across diverse genres.
The ensemble regularly collaborates with other Department of Music groups, including Camerata Chamber Orchestra and Concert Choir, offering students a rich and varied orchestral experience.
Participation in Symphony Orchestra requires a high level of commitment. Because of the demands of orchestral repertoire, students are expected to prepare music independently outside of rehearsal. Additional rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances may also take place outside of the regular class meeting schedule.
Course Documents & Schedule
The course syllabus includes all ensemble information, including rehearsal dates, performance schedule, preliminary repertoire, class policies, and expectations.
- MUEN 385, CUCSO Syllabus, AY 2026 - 27, FINAL
- MUEN 385, CUCSO Rehearsal & Performance Dates, AY 2026 - 27
2026–2027 Important Dates
| Date | Purpose |
|---|---|
| August 10 | Music majors (new/returning) will receive assigned auditions times by August 14. Non-music majors (strings only) may schedule an audition time here. |
| August 15–23 | Discover Week: First Year Students Starting in Fall |
| Thu, Aug 20 | Ensembles Overview (Harkness Chapel, 3:00 PM) |
| Mon, Aug 24 | Fall classes begin; auditions for music majors |
| August 25–28 | Auditions for non-majors |
| Mon, Aug 31 | Rehearsal begin (Wade Rehearsal Hall, 6:25 PM) |
| Fri, Sep 4 | Drop/Add period ends |
| Mon, Jan 11 | Spring classes begin; auditions for new members (no rehearsal) |
| Wed, Jan 13 | Rehearsals begin (Wade Rehearsal Hall, 6:25 PM) |
| Fri, Jan 22 | Drop/Add period ends |
Participation & Placement
Auditions for String Players
Auditions for string players are required once per academic year and take place in person during the first week of fall classes. Fall auditions determine assignments for the full academic year. New members can audition the first week of the spring semester.
The string section in Symphony Orchestra is highly competitive and carefully balanced to maintain strong ensemble cohesion and section clarity.
For this reason, many first-year string players may initially be placed in Camerata Chamber Orchestra (MUEN 386) until openings become available in Symphony Orchestra.
Auditions for Wind & Percussion Players
One audition, two ensembles.
All wind and percussion players interested in Symphonic Winds or Symphony Orchestra complete a single audition at the start of the academic year using the guidelines listed on the Symphonic Winds page.
Audition Requirements
String Players
Prepare:
- One etude or solo (maximum 3 minutes)
- Major and harmonic minor scales (2–3 octaves where appropriate)
- Assigned orchestra excerpts listed below
Audition Information by Instrument:
- VIOLIN, Audition Information AY 2026 - 2027
- VIOLA, Audition Information AY 2026 - 2027
- CELLO, Audition Information AY 2026 - 2027
- DOUBLE BASS, Audition Information AY 2026 - 2027
- HARP, Audition Information AY 2026 - 2027
- WINDS & PERCUSSION Audition Information AY 2026 - 2027
Non-music majors (strings only) may schedule their audition time by using the button provided below.
Schedule Your String Audition (non-majors)
Registration
Enrollment permission is granted in the Student Information System (SIS) after a successful audition or during the first week of class. Once permission is granted, students must return to SIS to complete registration.
Reminder: The Drop/Add period ends on the second Friday of each semester.
| Director: Dr. Kathleen Horvath |
MUEN 385-100: Case/University Circle Symphony Orchestra MUEN 385-101: Case/University Circle Symphony Orchestra |
Performances
Concerts are scheduled throughout the academic year and typically take place at the Maltz Performing Arts Center or Florence Harkness Memorial Chapel.
All performances are live-streamed free in Eastern Time, allowing friends and family to watch from anywhere.
Stay up to date on upcoming concerts, recitals, and department announcements by visiting our News & Events page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When are auditions?
Auditions take place during the first week of the fall and spring semesters. Students who did not audition in the fall may audition in the spring.
When does rehearsal begin?
Because auditions occur during the first week of classes, rehearsals begin during the second week after staffing and repertoire assignments are finalized.
Can graduate students participate?
Absolutely. Graduate students from all programs are welcome. After auditioning, consult with Dr. Horvath (ensemble director) regarding the appropriate registration process.
I have a fall conflict. Can I join in spring?
Students may join Symphonic Winds in spring by completing the spring audition. However, only students who audition in the fall and participate for the full academic year are eligible for Symphony Orchestra spring semester placement.
How many credit hours should I take?
MUEN ensembles are offered at variable credit (0.0, 0.5, or 1.0 units) to allow flexibility based on academic load and personal preference. Music majors should consult their degree requirements.
Where are practice rooms?
Students enrolled in music ensembles (MUEN) or applied lessons (MUAP), as well as music majors, receive access to practice rooms in Haydn Hall and Denison Hall. Please review departmental policies for details.
Will I have after-hours building access?
Yes. Access is automatically activated for enrolled students. For non-majors, access begins the Monday after Drop/Add.
Is instrument storage available?
Yes. Lockers are available to current music majors and students enrolled in official department ensembles, subject to departmental policies: Instrumental Locker Policies and Requests.
What is the required concert attire?
Professional all-black concert attire, including formal footwear.