Our orchestra was founded in 1997 by our Music Director, Norris Berg, together with a small group of 12 string players. The newly formed orchestra called itself the Thompson Valley Community Orchestra, to reflect the area from which it would draw its players and audience members. Soon it had grown in size to include all instrument sections - woodwinds, brass, percussion and strings. Today its players number 50 or more. These dedicated amateur musicians are drawn from students in elementary, high school and university as well as adult players. The players receive no remuneration and play for the joy of creating quality musical programming to share with the community. In 2014 the orchestra name was shortened to Thompson Valley Orchestra and the letters TVO became part of our new logo.
The orchestra’s repertoire includes a variety of musical styles from light classics to pops. The orchestra presents three to four concerts a year in Kamloops and also performs outreach concerts for Seniors Homes and Care Facilities. TVO enjoys working with many local artists and musicians in its concert series. Concerts take place at Kamloops Full Gospel Tabernacle, which is also the orchestra’s home base for its weekly rehearsals on Monday nights during the playing season.
In 2017 TVO celebrated its 20th season of performing. These past 20 years have been years of both growth and change. This year in particular we have faced two significant changes. The first was a change of concert venue. As of December 2016, TVO now performs in Kamloops' North Shore area, at Kamloops Full Gospel Tabernacle, 1550 Tranquille Rd.
The second change was a sadder one as we announced the retirement in May 2017 of our founder and long-time Music Director, Norris Berg. Norris has built a long-lasting legacy in the Kamloops community with the founding of TVO and developing an orchestra that has provided the opportunity for many amateur musicians, both young and old, to foster their musical skills in an orchestral setting. We will miss his committed leadership and genuine enthusiasm in working with our members.
Musicians:
TVO seeks musicians from late elementary age to adults who want to work together in an orchestral setting to create wonderful music. We need players who are committed to regular practicing and ongoing development of their musical skills. Orchestra players are expected to attend all rehearsals unless they have given notice of an unavoidable conflict (illness, work or school commitment). If more than 3 rehearsals are missed it will be up to the Conductor's discretion to decide if a player can still perform in the concert.
TVO accepts potential new members throughout the year. Prospective players should contact the TVO Administrator, and give information about their music training, previous ensemble playing experience etc. If the Conductor feels that they will be an asset to the group, the potential new member will be invited to attend a rehearsal to see if they can comfortably play the music on the program.
TVO currently has room for musicians in the following areas:
Violin, Viola, Bass Clarinet, Tuba.