K-State Symphony Orchestra
A vibrant community of musicians representing many major fields of study
The Kansas State University Orchestra program is a vibrant community of musicians representing many major fields of study including music performance, music education, music composition, 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, throughout the Manhattan community, and around the world 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!
KSUSO Season Opener on Thursday, October 15!
The K-State Symphony Orchestra will open its season featuring works by Jessie Montgomery, Alberto Ginastera, and Antonin Dvořák. Held on Thursday, October 15 at 7:30 PM in the McCain Auditorium, this concert is free to the public.
Those interested in attending the orchestra's pre-concert reception BACKSTAGE PASS may obtain a ticket using the following TICKET LINK. All funds raised from this event will support future KSUSO student scholarships. The pre-concert talk will include a reception and a presentation about the historical significance of the works featured on the concert. Featuring K-State's musicology professor, Dr. Dorothy Maglione, BACKSTAGE PASS is supported by the generosity of Susie and Chuck Grier.
String Fling Festival Set for Tuesday, November 3.
Join the K-State String Division faculty and special guest clinicians for an exciting and rewarding day of music. To learn more about what this festival offers and to register your students, visit the String Fling Festival webpage.
The 2026-27 season of JOY!
To learn more about this year's season of JOY with the KSUSO, visit our CONCERT SCHEDULE webpage!
Orchestras @ K-State - Music in Motion!