Mannheim University Orchestra

We are a symphony orchestra of roughly 60 members consisting mainly of students from the University of Mannheim, but also students from other higher education institutions in Mannheim as well as working people from the region. Every semester we develop an exciting concert program, performing works from the First Viennese School (“Wiener Klassik”) to music from the 20th century.

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Semester Concert

Sunday, 22 November 2026, at 5:00 p.m., Aula
Monday, 23 November 2026, at 8:00 p.m., Aula

Paul DUKAS – Fanfare to Preface *La Péri*
Claude DEBUSSY – Petite suite for orchestra
Eugène YSAŸE – Amitie, Op. 26
César FRANCK – Symphony in D minor

Tickets: €12.00 or €6.00 (reduced)
Advance ticket sales begin two weeks before the concert.

Take part!

Close-up of a violin being played by a musician.

The university orchestra welcomes all music lovers: Everyone who plays a symphonic instrument and has orchestral experience is cordially invited to audition with us. Whether you are a student at the University of Mannheim, one of a higher education institution or a staff member – simply contact our conductor Manus O'Donnell by email.

Rehearsals and Auditions

Rehearsals are every Monday evening from 7:30 to 10 p.m. There are no rehearsals during semester breaks.

To join the orchestra, you have to audition at the beginning of each semester. Dates: Wednesday, 09.09. (7:00–9:00 p.m.), Wednesday, 16.09. (7:00–9:00 p.m.) & Saturday, 19.09. (10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.)

First rehearsal: Monday, 21.09.2026
Open positions: oboe/English horn, bass clarinet, trumpet, French horn, trombone, tuba, harp, percussion, all strings (especially double basses)

Mandatory dates:
06–08 November 2026: Rehearsal weekend (university facilities)
21 November 2026, afternoon: Dress rehearsal (auditorium)
22–23 November 2026: Semester concerts (auditorium)

Concert impressions from 11 May 2025