A Letter from Amy Conrod, Director of Education & Community
Welcome to the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra’s (OPO) 2026-2027 Season! I would like to extend a warm invitation for your school to participate in the OPO’s Orchestra of Distinction award!
The OPO’s Orchestra of Distinction program was developed to showcase the excellent musicianship and instructors of Central Florida schools, while also providing valuable experiences from our musicians and orchestra to inspire and delight our community’s students.
OPO musicians and Education Committee members will serve as part of an adjudicator panel providing valuable encouragement, support and feedback on each school’s application.
Middle and High School orchestras from Central Florida are eligible to apply for the program. Four orchestras will receive the honor of being named the HS/MS Orchestra of Distinction and the HS/MS Orchestra in the Wings. With these awards, all schools will receive opportunities with the Orlando Philharmonic and recognition on stage at our May 10th concert – Beethoven Symphony No. 9!
Each group will submit a completed application and 2 audio recordings from this school year through our website. All materials and an application fee of $100 are due by March 13th, 2026. Checks can be made payable to Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra (425 North Bumby Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803). Winners will be announced by the end of March.
Thank you for your interest in applying! If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us – education@orlandophil.org
We look forward to working with you!
Amy Conrod
Director of Education and Community
Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra
aconrod@orlandophil.org
407.896.6700 ex. 232
Applicants must submit a completed application and recent recordings of 2 select works through the form below. All materials and $100 application fee must be submitted no later than March 13th, 2026.