Since its beginning in 2014, the West Australian Symphony Orchestra’s annual Rusty Orchestra program has given community musicians from around WA the opportunity to sit side-by-side with WASO musicians in a larger than life symphony performance on Perth Concert Hall's main stage.

Past Rusty Orchestra musicians have described the opportunity the program provides as “what dreams are made of for an amateur musician”, but what is the experience like for WASO players?

Rusty Orchestra Sectional Rehearsal, 2021

Born and raised in England, Zak Rowntree has been playing the violin since he was nine years old, and for the past eight years has held the title of WASO’s Principal 2nd Violin. We spoke to Zak about what it’s like playing in the Rusty Orchestra from a professional orchestra member’s perspective.

How many times have you participated in the Rusty Orchestra? What was the experience like the first year?

I’ve always enjoyed playing in the Rusty Orchestra, so I think I’ve played in it every year. I wasn’t sure what to expect the first year, as it was a new concept for most of us, but it was great to get carried along with the enthusiasm of all of the participants!

Zak Rowntree | Photography: Nik Babic

It’s safe to say Rusty’s community musicians learn a lot from their WASO counterparts. What have you learned from the community musicians you’ve interacted with?

However much we enjoy playing, music for us is a job. It is good to be reminded of that feeling we all had when playing in such a big group for the first time.

What would be your advice to amateur musicians thinking of applying for the Rusty Orchestra? What can they expect from the experience?

First of all – please apply! Although playing in a big hall in front of lots of people can be scary, that’s also what gives you such a sense of euphoria and achievement at the end of a concert. 

Also, for string players, there is often a misunderstanding about seating positions (sometimes a leftover from youth orchestra days). Every section player in an orchestra is equal – from the front to the back desk – all are just as important.

That’s wonderful advice! As a WASO musician, what is the most exciting part of the Rusty Orchestra concert?

From the first rehearsal when everyone is excited (and playing way too loud!), to the concert at the end, seeing the progress made by everyone in such a short space of time is amazing. I love seeing the response of family members in the audience towards their wife, husband, Mum, Dad, etc. playing up on stage.

Rusty Orchestra Final Rehearsal, 2021

This year’s Rusty Orchestra concert will take place on Sunday 29 May, 5pm and feature excerpts of works by Tchaikovsky, Dvořák, Khachaturian, and more. Book your tickets for just $10 each now!