Rainbow City Orchestra

Return of the Orchestra!

Rainbow City Orchestra was launched in 2010 as Seattle’s first LGBTQ+ string ensemble and performed proudly for five years in Seattle. In response to several requests, we are bringing the orchestra back to realize our mission of visibility and inclusion with people in the community who play string instruments. Under the baton of Dr. Christopher T. F. Hanson, we are thrilled to expand our community of musicians with a concert season running through 2023 and beyond!

How are we different?

We are not your standard community orchestra! We aim to build a family of musicians of all abilities and identities and make you welcome to express yourself with us through our shared love of performance. Through our mission, we focus our musical choices on composers who are marginalized and less often heard through history. We also play themes that speak to LGBTQ+ communities and the challenges we still face. Often, we include community partner organizations and impactful collaborators to bring focus and donations to important causes.

The orchestra is backed by Rainbow City Performing Arts, now in our 25th year of performing instrumental music in Seattle. Through collaboration and shared resources, we will build a strong lasting legacy in Seattle with a new welcome place for those who support our mission. All are welcome! Whether you are a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, an ally, differently abled, or fall on a spectrum of musical talent and skill, we are committed to securing a space and supporting everyone who is interested in expressing themselves on a string instrument.

When can I join you?

Contact us now! We are recruiting members to continuing building our ensemble with larger numbers through the year. Our rehearsals are on Mondays from 7:00-9:15 near the University of Washington in Seattle. We would love to have you and your friends join us in building this new institution!