From then to now

Launched in January 2010 with 20 musicians in the founders’ living room, the group has grown to a mailing list of over 800, from which a robust group of about 80 musicians attends monthly sessions.

Inspiration for using the word ’terrible’ in our name came from the RTO (Really Terrible Orchestra) of Scotland, a humorous way to convey inclusiveness.

Musicians of all skill levels, from re-starters to experts, are welcome; more experienced players might work on a second or third instrument; others learn how to play in an ensemble, many for the first time; some practice the monthly music ahead of time and others develop their sight-reading skills.

Our extensive library of full orchestra music includes arrangements from baroque and classical to pop and show tunes, all accessible to amateurs.

We are a social orchestra with monthly reading sessions; we call our sessions gatherings because we don’t “rehearse” with the goal of performing; occasional performance opportunities are always optional with a big emphasis on “fun!"

Anyone who wants to listen, including family and friends, is always welcome to attend and observe our process of creating music, and hear how it all comes together.