Grow, Perform, Belong Where Cultures Unite: The OCMS Symphony Orchestra
A multicultural community orchestra offering high-quality orchestral training and performance opportunities across the Greater Toronto Area. Musicians of all backgrounds are welcome.
Butterfly’s Dream | P.C. Ho Theatre
An Orchestra Born in 1999, Open to Everyone Today
The OCMS Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1999 by Music Director and Principal Conductor Mr. Chuen Tam as the Overseas Chinese Youth Symphony Orchestra. Its members were mostly Chinese youths who had migrated to Canada in the 1990s, supported by their parents.
Entering our third decade, we extended our service to musicians of all ethnicities and reinvented the orchestra into a multicultural, dynamic and fun group. Today we offer high-quality orchestral training and performance opportunities across the Greater Toronto Area.
The orchestra operates under the Ontario Cross-Cultural Music Society (OCMS), a charitable organization incorporated in 1996 in Ontario, Canada.
Our Milestones
1996 – TODAYThe Ontario Cross-Cultural Music Society is incorporated as a charitable organization in Ontario.
Mr. Chuen Tam founds the Overseas Chinese Youth Symphony Orchestra.
The orchestra opens its doors to musicians of all ethnicities and becomes multicultural.
Join Us Every Friday Evening
Our weekly rehearsals take place in Markham. Prospective members are always welcome.
105 Gibson Centre
Room 103105 Gibson Dr, Markham, ON L3R 3K7
Rehearsal Schedule
Every weekWeekly Rehearsals
Every Friday evening, 7:30–9:30 PM.
Location
105 Gibson Centre, Room 103, Markham.
Parking & Access
On-site parking is available at 105 Gibson Centre.
Visit a Rehearsal
Prospective members are welcome to sit in on a Friday rehearsal before auditioning. Contact us to arrange a visit.
Orchestral Openings & Audition Roster
We welcome auditions from experienced orchestral instrumentalists (RCM Level 6+ or equivalent proficiency).
Strings
1st & 2nd Violins
2 Chairs
Viola
Urgent Priority (2)
Cello
4 Chairs
Double Bass
Priority (1)
Woodwinds
Flute/Piccolo
1 Chair
Oboe/Eng. Horn
Priority (1 Chair)
Clarinet (Bb/A)
Roster Full
Bassoon
1 Chair (Bassoon II)
Brass & Percussion
French Horn
Priority (Horn 2 & 4)
Trumpet
1 Section Chair
Trombone/Tuba
2 chairs each
Percussion/Mallets
1 Opening
4-Step Audition Pathway
Our conductor and section principals foster an inspiring, non-intimidating audition atmosphere focused on artistic potential and ensemble blend.
1
Online Registration & Background
Submit our short intake form detailing your previous orchestral or ensemble experience, instrument, and music training (RCM Level 6+ or equivalent).
2
Video Screening or Live Audition
Play one solo movement of your choice demonstrating tone and expressive control, alongside two supplied standard orchestral excerpts for your instrument.
3
Sectional Rehearsal
Join a sectional rehearsal with your instrument group. Sit alongside your section leader, experience our hall’s acoustics, and feel the ensemble camaraderie.
4
Section Chair & Score Folio
Receive your official orchestra binder, digital practice reference recordings, and personalized concert schedule for the upcoming performance season.
Audition requirements are designed to encourage musicianship. Memorization is not required for audition excerpts.
Apply Now →Membership Guidelines & Commitment
Being an OCMS orchestral musician is a rewarding civic and artistic dedication. Here is what members can expect:
Subsidized Membership Dues
Annual non-profit dues of $300/season ($150 per semester) cover professional music director honoraria, theatre rehearsal rental, and original orchestral score licensing. Confidential financial need bursaries are readily available.
Attendance Requirement
Because orchestral balance relies on every chair, a minimum 80% rehearsal attendance is required to take part in major gala concerts. Sectionals and dress rehearsals are mandatory.
Concert Attire
Formal concert black: Tuxedo or black suit with black bowtie; or floor-length black formal dress, black blouse and trousers/skirt with dark hosiery and dark shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of playing proficiency is expected?
Most orchestra members possess RCM Level 6 or equivalent proficiency, with solid orchestral ensemble sight-reading skills. University students and adult returnees who played in youth or university symphonies find our environment both challenging and supportive.
Are orchestral instruments provided for rehearsals?
Musicians provide their own primary instruments (violins, flutes, clarinets, trumpets, etc.). However, large percussion (timpani, bass drum, crash cymbals, xylophone) are stored and provided directly at 105 Gibson Centre.
Can high school or university students join?
Yes! Advanced secondary school and post-secondary students are welcome and can earn volunteer service hours or receive mentorship from conservatory graduates sitting in our string and wind sections.
The People Behind the Music
Music Director & Conductor
James Wu
Concertmaster
Andrew Hsu
Committee Members
Bill Ng
Carina Chan
Kevin Leung
Mary Wei
Matthew Wong
Ready to Take Your Seat?
Many cultures. One orchestra. Join us on Fridays at 105 Gibson Centre.
Join the Orchestra