Musician Registration...
Interested in Joining the Orchestra?
The Fermi Community Orchestra (FCO) and Fermi Community Strings (FCS) welcome musicians from throughout the community! Our season is divided into three concert sessions (fall, winter, and spring), each with its own rehearsal schedule and performance. New musicians are welcome to join us as space permits.
How to Join
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Explore Our Ensembles: Learn more about Fermi Community Orchestra and Fermi Community Strings below to determine which ensemble best fits your playing experience and interests. Check out our previous concerts to see the variety and level of music we play.
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Register for an Upcoming Concert Session: Registration opens approximately six weeks before each new concert cycle. Musicians must complete a new registration form for each concert session in which they wish to participate, even if they've played with us before.
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Wait for Placement Confirmation: Available positions in the orchestra vary from session to session depending on instrumentation needs. Registration is considered on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to available openings. Submitting a registration form does not guarantee placement.
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Join Us for Rehearsals! Once your participation is confirmed, you'll receive information about the rehearsal schedule, music, participation fees, and other important details.
A Few Things to Remember
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Musicians registering on a session-by-session basis need to register again for each new concert cycle.
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Playing in one concert doesn't automatically guarantee a spot in the next.
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Some sections fill up quickly, so early registration is encouraged.
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Auditions generally aren't required, except for principal positions.
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Fees are $75 per session
Before continuing, all musicians are encouraged to read through the Member Handbook. We look forward to welcoming you into our musical community!
Fall 2026 Session Registration is Now Closed - Check Back for Our Winter Concert, Animato!
No auditions are required, with the exception of members who are interested in section leader positions. Open positions in the orchestra vary from season, depending on the pieces chosen and specific instrumentation required for a balanced orchestra.
Fermi Community Strings: Sundays, 4:30-6:00 pm
The Fermi Community Strings is dedicated to string musicians (violin, viola, cello, bass) who are new or returning to orchestral playing. This orchestra explores ensemble playing from a fundamental level with enjoyable and accessible literature selected for adult beginner and intermediate players, as well as seasoned musicians trying a new instrument. Auditions are not required. A couple of years playing experience is recommended.
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Alan Lee Silva: The Evil Eye and the Hideous Heart
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Beethoven, arranged by Todd Parrish: Allegretto from Symphony No. 7
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Tchaikovsky, arranged by Leland Forsblad: Waltz from The Sleeping Beauty
Not sure you're ready for the FCS group? Check out a sample of the music from one of our recent concerts HERE. The music samples provided represent the most advanced literature performed by Fermi Community Strings. Most of our repertoire, however, is lighter and more approachable, offering an enjoyable and challenging experience for musicians at a variety of levels. We are committed to encouraging one another to learn and grow in a supportive atmosphere!
Fermi Community Orchestra: Sundays, 6:30-9:00pm (includes a 15-minute break)
The Fermi Community Orchestra is a full symphonic ensemble for more experienced amateur players, retired professionals, music teachers, and advanced adult students. This orchestra challenges its members with exciting standards of classical literature in a welcoming, fun, and non-competitive environment. With the exception of the principal players, auditions are not required, however previous orchestral experience is essential. The FCO symphonic ensemble is open to all string, woodwind, brass, and percussion players.
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Prokofiev: Montagues and Capulets from Romeo and Juliet
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Bruch: Kol Nidrei, featuring cellist Santiago Uribe Cardona
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Mussorgsky: Night on Bald Mountain
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Berlioz: March to the Scaffold from Symphonie fantastique
Ready to register for the Current Season?
About Session Fees
The Fermi Community Orchestra and the Fermi Community Strings are volunteer adult ensembles funded entirely by the contributions of its members. We rely on these contributions to provide the tools and facilities to rehearse and perform free concerts to the community, invite guest artists, and bring in top professional instrumental clinicians for specialized training.
The Fermi Community Orchestra will never turn away any interested musician due to financial hardship.
Our Location...
The Fermi Community Orchestra and Fermi Community Strings meet on Sundays at:
Batavia United Methodist Church
8 North Batavia Ave
Batavia, Illinois 60510