Founded in 1997, the All University Orchestra (AUO) of Carnegie Mellon University is a student organization that provides its members the opportunity to continue exploring the classical music repertoire and to further develop their overall musicianship. This organization, part of the Department of Student Activities, is open to all members of the University community. It is comprised of three ensembles: All University Orchestra, a symphonic orchestra; AUO Chamber Orchestra; and Flute Choir. Members are allowed to participate in one or all ensembles. For more information regarding our ensembles, please contact AUO Music Director, Dr. Jeffrey Klefstad at cmuauo@gmail.com.

The AUO Member Info Packet for 2024-2025 can be found here (PDF).

Established in Fall 2021 to accommodate more string and wind/brass players, the AUO Chamber Orchestra is a classical sized orchestra of approximately 50 players that performs repertoire from the Baroque to the 21st-century. The ensemble performs one concert each semester at venues including: Kresge Theater, Alumni Concert Hall, and Schenley Plaza. There are no auditions to participate in this ensemble, but prospective members are strongly encouraged to submit an audition so the Music Director can assign parts that best suit the player's strengths.

Rehearsals occur Sunday nights in the CUC Studio Theater between 8:30-10:00pm. If you are interested in this ensemble, please contact Dr. Jeffrey Klefstad (cmuauo@gmail.com).

How big is the All University Orchestra Organization?

The AUO has over 120 members across three ensembles: the AUO Symphony, AUO Chamber Orchestra, and Flutonium (Flute Choir).

What is the time commitment?

AUO Symphony (approx. 3-3.5 hrs/week):

Rehearsals are Sunday evenings from 6:00-8:30pm in the CUC Studio Theater. throughout the academic year. Members are expected to be in the rehearsal space by 5:50pm, warmed-up and ready to play at 6:00pm. Sectionals are assigned on an 'as needed' basis and are 1 hour (either Saturdays from 2:30-3:30pm or Sundays from 8:30-9:30pm). Many of our members still manage to be active with other organizations and ensembles on campus.

AUO Chamber Orchestra (approx. 1.5 hrs/week):

AUO Chamber Orchestra rehearses Sundays in the CUC Studio Theater between 8:30-10:00 pm. Members are expected to be in the rehearsal space by 8:25, warmed-up and ready to play at 8:30 p.m.

Flutonium (approx. 1 hr/week):

Rehearsal time is TBD based on member availability

Does it cost money to be involved with the AUO?

Each student pays an activities fee that is included in your tuition package while attending CMU. We collect a membership due which is $10/semester. If you are in more than one of our ensembles, you only need to pay your due once. We are funded by the Department of Student Activities, but also pursue fundraising opportunities.

Where does the AUO perform?

AUO Symphony

The AUO symphony is fortunate to perform our concerts in the historic Carnegie Music Hall, and Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium.

AUO Chamber Orchestra and Flutonium

These chamber ensembles perform both on and off-campus. In the past we have performed in Carnegie Music Hall, Schenley Plaza and Kresge Theater.

Do I have to audition to be a part of the AUO organization?

The only audition required is for the AUO Symphony (link to audition materials). You do not need to audition to participate in the AUO Chamber Orchestra, though it is highly encouraged. Members interested in Flutonium do not require an audition.

How do I audition for the AUO Symphony?

Students interested in the AUO Symphony will audition by sending a video link to AUO Music Director, Dr. Jeffrey Klefstad, cmuauo@gmail.com. Audition materials are located under the AUO Symphony Audition tab.