The Olympia Chamber Orchestra has been a cornerstone of the South Puget Sound arts community since 1989. Based in Olympia, Washington, we bring together students, community members, and professional musicians—uniting people from all walks of life through a shared love of music. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we are committed to making music accessible to everyone and supporting the growth of musicians at every level.
We are proud to strengthen the broader Olympia arts community through partnerships with organizations such as the Olympia Music Teachers Association, Capital City Chorus, and Olympia Opera Theater. We also champion the next generation of musicians by welcoming students into our ensemble and featuring winners of the OMTA Concerto Competition for youth musicians in annual performances.
Our repertoire is as diverse as our musicians, ranging from works written for smaller orchestras to opera and ballet scores, as well as chamber music. Together, we strive to create performances that are vibrant, collaborative, inclusive, and deeply rooted in our community.
Mission
The Olympia Chamber Orchestra brings together musicians and audiences from all backgrounds to create vibrant, engaging performances. We nurture our musicians, expand the range of music we perform, and make music accessible to the South Puget Sound community, strengthening connections and celebrating shared creativity.
Vision
We envision a thriving, inclusive musical community where everyone, regardless of age, background, or experience, can experience, perform, and grow through music. By embracing diverse repertoire, supporting musicians, and fostering collaboration, we aim to enrich and unite the South Puget Sound through shared musical experiences.
Values
Community – We build connections, celebrate collaboration, and strengthen the cultural life of Olympia and the South Puget Sound.
Inclusivity – We welcome people from a variety of backgrounds and celebrate diverse perspectives.
Vibrancy – We create dynamic, inspiring performances and a lively musical environment.
Accessibility – We believe music should be shared and enjoyed by everyone.
Musicianship – We provide pathways for musicians at every level to learn, perform, and thrive.