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, 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!
Join the K-State Orchestra Team!
The K-State Orchestra program offers three different string performance experiences...
The Kansas State University Symphony Orchestra (KSUSO) offers musicians a challenging musical experience featuring four main performances each season. Repertoire of the KSUSO ranges from classical favorites (Beethoven Symphonies), challenging masterworks (Shostakovich Symphony #5), and exciting world premieres. To learn more about the ensemble and to audition for the KSUSO, visit the KSUSO Fall Audition Webpage.
The K-State String Symphony is a non-auditioned string ensemble that meets once each week (Tuesdays 4:30-6:00). The ensemble performs twice each semester with a focus on engagement concerts that connect the musicians with their community. Stay tuned for more information about enrolling in the String Symphony this fall!
The WILD CATZ Contemporary String Ensemble is a new auditioned ensemble with a focus on exploring modern performance styles for string musicians. Members of the Wild Catz will choose and create repertoire through a collaborative process that features the creativity each musician brings to the ensemble. Stay tuned for more information about the audition process this fall!
The 2026-27 season of JOY!
Stay tuned for more information about the amazing season of JOY! with the K-State Orchestra program!
Orchestras @ K-State - Music in Motion!