The Symphony Orchestra at the University of Bergen (USO)

USO consists of students and employees of the University in Bergen and the colleges in Bergen.

USO was founded in 1985 and consists of about 50 musicians. The orchestra normally gives three concerts a year: a Winter Concert in February, a Spring Concert in May/June and an Autumn Concert in November. We play music from the classical symphonic repertoire in addition to some contemporary music, and we have performed works written especially for us several times. 

USO has a good collaboration with the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, whose musicians often act as reinforcements at our concerts when needed, or as instructors at seminars - or as soloists. We also often collaborate with young musicians at the beginning of their careers, and with established musicians from Bergen's professional music scene. 

Would you like to play in the orchestra? We rehearse every Wednesday at 6:30 PM-9:30 PM in the rehearsal room at the Grieg Academy, and you are most welcome to drop by for a rehearsal, with or without an instrument. You can also contact us by email. Students pay a membership fee of NOK 400 per term.

USO does not have auditions and generally always has room for more string players (double basses are especially welcome!). The need for wind players will vary depending on the current programme, and wind players must expect a trial period of a few weeks. Send an email if you have any questions!