How NACHO works

Is there a cost associated with participating in NACHO?

Yes.  Our Spring Term 2023 membership dues are $130.00 and the Term membership runs from April 1, 2023 to August 31, 2023.

Spring Term 2023 (11 Practice Sessions)

Will I receive detailed personal instruction on my particular instrument at NACHO meetings?

Participants in NACHO are expected to obtain detailed personal instruction on their selected instrument separately from one of the several sources for music instruction available in Vancouver, as noted below.   The Music Director provides instruction on using sheet music and how the instrument groups woodwinds, brass, percussion and strings interact and follow the Conductor, and may make some suggestions to individuals while a practice session is underway.  Personal instruction on the range of instruments is obtained at local music stores (see our partner list on the home page), or from private music instructors (see the B.C. Registered Music Teachers’ Association for a list of private instructors.

How much time should I commit to participation in NACHO?

As much as you like—the goal of NACHO is to enjoy the group and have fun!   We certainly welcome volunteers to help in any way they can with the various activities required to keep NACHO running smoothly.  Our 2023 practice session schedule is available as a PDF document here.

What pieces of equipment do I need to participate in NACHO?

You will need to rent or purchase the instrument you wish to play.  Visit our music store Partners and let them know you are registering for the Newbie Adult Chamber Orchestra (NACHO) program.

In the case of percussion, a snare drum is the usual core instrument—we don’t expect people to buy a set of timpani!  Speak with your music instructor for guidance on the specific instrument you need.   Our Music Director may be able to provide some help as well.

We are organizing a full chamber orchestra (or larger) that can include the following instruments:

Violins	Violas	Cellos	Double Bass
Flutes	Bassoons	Clarinets	Oboes
Trumpets	Trombones	French Horns	Tuba
Saxophones	Harp	Percussion (drums, bells, triangle, etc.)

You will also need to obtain a music stand to bring to practice.   There are a number of stands on the market, so the best thing is to go to a music store and see what suits you in terms of size, stability, portability and cost.  Other materials will be identified by the Music Director once you are registered for the program.

Please tell us about your musical interests and join our NACHO mailing list by completing our NACHO Questionnaire.