Oikos

The music

The Marlborough Civic Orchestra (MCO) aims to showcase a diverse repertoire from standard classical fare to popular music (shows, tv or film) - from memorable traditional pieces to catchy contemporary tunes. We choose the music according to what our members want to play and what you the audience want to hear. Please comment on our Facebook page if you would like us to consider playing a particular symphony or show's music and we may well oblige you.

The community

The MCO is entirely made up of voluntary members whose love for music has helped create Marlborough's first community orchestra in over 40 years. With few exceptions, instruments are player-owned and we pay for our own lessons. We gratefully receive masterclasses and orchestral training from professional orchestra members as funding allows (see funding agencies below). As part of the MCO's commitment to the local community the orchestra aims to perform special free primary school concerts every year at the ASB Theatre Marlborough.

The musicians

The music wouldn't happen without dedicated local musicians, playing for the joy of making music together. MCO is always looking for new members of ALL ages no matter how long it's been since you last played. Feel free to dust off your oboe, double bass or triangle - come along and see what it's all about at one of our regular practices. You'll find a warm welcome, a shared enthusiasm for music and quite possibly some home baking for afternoon tea.

Biannual concerts

Each year, MCO will perform at least two public concerts, usually one classical and one popular concert. For concert dates see our Calendar page or visit our Facebook page via the link below, and please give us a 'Like' while you're there.
You'll also find some interesting snippets and musical clips from all over the web along with video clips and images from our past concerts.

Our conductors

David Brooks - founding conductor
David was born into a musical family and began learning music at the age of five. He has been involved in the Salvation Army Band his whole life and spent the past 16 years conducting the local band.
David brought an enthusiasm and humour to the MCO that kept us on our toes, extending our dynamic capacity and bringing a fresh approach to our relatively young orchestra.