K-State Symphony Orchestra

K-State Orchestra Program

The Kansas State University Orchestra program is a vibrant community of musicians representing many major fields of study including music performance, music education, engineering, architecture, computer programming, business, foreign language, and many more. All musicians are welcome!

Under the direction of Dr. Rachel Dirks, the orchestras perform exciting and engaging concerts in McCain Auditorium and throughout the Manhattan community featuring a wide array of literature from contemporary works to classical favorites. For more information about our current KSUSO season or to view past programs, visit our Concert Schedule page. We look forward to sharing music with you!

Future Wildcats - Join our Orchestra Community!

For students wishing to join the K-State Orchestra Division make sure to be aware of upcoming deadlines:

December 1: K-State Application Deadline for General Scholarships - APPLY NOW!

December 1 & January 1: K-State Music Dept. Deadline for Graduate Student Applications and Materials - APPLY NOW!

February 4 & 7: Undergraduate Music & String Audition Days - LEARN MORE!

K-State Students - Orchestra Opportunities in Spring 2026!

The K-State Orchestra Division offers three ensembles in the spring, don't miss the opportunity to join our team this school year!

* Symphony Orchestra - Spring semester auditions for this professional level ensemble are now open. Contact us via email to request an audition time: orchestra@ksu.edu

* Wildcatz String Orchestra - This non-auditioned string orchestra that meets Wednesday evenings and focuses on community engagement for each of its performances. Join us this spring as we feature fiddle styles and works from famous movies!

* University Orchestra - A fun lab orchestra for students wishing to expand their knowledge of beginning string study. Taught by undergraduate music education majors, this collaborative class meets once each week on Friday afternoons.

K-State Orchestra Division - Music in Motion!