Orange Symphony Orchestra (OSO) is a community orchestra that performs a broad range of established and contemporary orchestral repertoire for the benefit of the community.

We welcome musicians of varying experience and ability levels and aim to balance artistic excellence with opportunities for participation, development, and lifelong learning. We place a high priority on the equitable inclusion of our financial members and encourage cooperation, mutual respect, and shared responsibility among all players.

While we seek to provide participation opportunities wherever possible, the requirements of individual concert programs and orchestral instrumentation mean that not all players will be able to participate in every concert series.

Players participating in OSO rehearsals and performances are expected to be current financial members of the orchestra unless otherwise approved by the Committee.

Membership does not guarantee selection for a particular concert series, position, or part assignment. Where the number of available players exceeds the requirements of a concert series, preference will generally be given to financial members.

The Committee is responsible for selecting players for each concert series.

Invitations will generally be coordinated through the Committee's nominated section representatives.

Players are asked to respond to invitations within two weeks and advise their availability for rehearsals and performances. If a response is not received within that time, or a player is unable to commit to the rehearsal and performance requirements of the concert series, the Committee may offer the position to another player.

When selecting players, the Committee may consider:

• the requirements of the program;

• instrumentation needs;

• player experience and capability;

• availability; and

• equitable participation opportunities for financial members.

In some sections, particularly brass, woodwind, and percussion, the number of available players may exceed the requirements of a particular program. As instrumentation varies significantly between concerts, it may not be possible to include every available player in every performance series.

OSO's instrumental sections are generally self-governing. Players are encouraged to work collaboratively to allocate parts and seating in a way that supports both the musical requirements of the program and the development of players within the section.

The Committee may appoint or invite Section Leaders for individual concert series or for a defined period. Section Leaders work with the relevant Committee Representative to coordinate player participation and section communication.

OSO encourages the rotation of parts, principal positions, and leadership opportunities where practical. Suitably qualified players should have opportunities over time to perform principal (1st chair) parts and develop leadership skills, while recognising that some repertoire may require particular experience or expertise.

Where a section is unable to reach agreement regarding part allocation, or where concerns are raised regarding fairness, participation, or player development, the relevant Committee Representative will work with the Section Leader to determine an appropriate outcome.

The appointment of Concertmaster and any other positions specifically designated by the Committee remains at the discretion of the Committee.

All members are expected to:

• treat fellow players, conductors, soloists, volunteers, audience members, and committee members with courtesy and respect;

• contribute positively to rehearsals and performances;

• support a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment;

• communicate constructively and professionally;

• prepare assigned repertoire and attend rehearsals and performances for which they have committed;

• advise the relevant Section Leader or Committee Representative as soon as possible if they are unable to attend; and

• remain aware of rehearsal schedules and orchestra communications.

OSO is committed to maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment.

Unacceptable behaviour includes, but is not limited to:

• harassment, bullying, or intimidation;

• discriminatory or offensive behaviour;

• unwelcome physical contact;

• abusive, threatening, or offensive verbal or written communication;

• conduct that significantly disrupts rehearsals, performances, or orchestra activities; and

• conduct that brings the orchestra into disrepute.

Members are encouraged to raise concerns about behaviour or breaches of this document with a member of the Committee.

Concerns will be handled as confidentially as reasonably practicable. The Committee will consider all matters fairly and provide affected parties with an opportunity to respond where appropriate.

Where a breach is substantiated, the Committee may take action ranging from informal resolution through to suspension from participation or revocation of membership in accordance with the Constitution of the Association.