The Public Orchestra

Call for musicians of all kinds | How can we be together?

We are seeking 50 Philadelphians who feel passionately drawn to music and music making to participate in a city-wide collaborative project called Rehearsing Philadelphia.

Under the direction of artist and composer Ari Benjamin Meyers (Berlin/New York), and in collaboration with Musical Director Anthony Tidd, one aspect of this project will be to form the first Public Orchestra, dedicated to honoring the diversity of the sonic landscape of Philadelphia.

Members of this orchestra will come from a wide variety of musical backgrounds and experiences, which may cover everything from those very rehearsed to those very spontaneous, and be interested in forming a group to perform newly commissioned works by Ari Benjamin Meyers, Ursula Rucker, Xenia Rubinos and Sun Ra Arkestra.

Applicants can play any instrument or use voice as their primary instrument. The orchestra will be a haven for those who relish the prospect of musical adventures into unchartered territories. The ability to read music is welcome but not required. Rehearsals will take place from January to April 2022. Participants will receive an honorarium of $2,000 for their participation.

*Thank you all for the overwhelming response and interest in the Public Orchestra of Philadelphia! We’re excited to continue bringing together a diverse and inclusive group, and are extending the application deadline to November 10th at 11:59 PM.*


Key Dates

Information Sessions (Meet the artists, learn more about the Orchestra, and ask questions about submitting your info):

  • October 13, 2021 (6:30pm - 7:30pm): Cherry St. Pier *Masks required, no RSVP necessary
  • October 18, 2021 (7pm - 8pm): Virtual Meeting on Zoom
  • Rewatch info session here

November 10, 2021 : Submissions Due

January - April 2022 : Rehearsals twice monthly on Sunday afternoon and optional weeknights.

April 8 - 10 2022 : Performance Dates


Nominate someone great, or apply yourself, by November 10, 2021.

For questions about the process, email info@rehearsingphiladelphia.com

Click here to read the Public Orchestra Manifesto.

Ready to join the Public Orchestra? Click the link below to join us!

Application PDF

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Zoë Keating w/ Ensemble