Participation - Ngaa whai waahitanga

Rusty Player Orchestra

SOCIAL MUSIC MAKING FOR PARTICIPATION FOR
CONNECTIVITY AND WELL-BEING

The Rusty Player Orchestra is an all-inclusive orchestra providing a positive and nurturing environment for people looking to build confidence playing in an orchestra, whether they are new to their musical journey or returning after many years away.

About the Rusty Player Orchestra

The Rusty Player Orchestra is an all-inclusive orchestra catering for novice and returning musicians of all ages and is very relaxed with the emphasis on participation and enjoyment rather than perfection. For many players it is a gateway into our community orchestra, the Trust Waikato Symphony Orchestra.

The orchestra meets six times a year for one-off sessions so there is no need to commit to lengthy rehearsal schedules. The events usually include sectional workshops with skilled tutors to help players build confidence. We finish the session with a very informal performance to family and friends so they can see what you have been up to.

The Rusty Player Orchestra started in 2017 and we now have over 420 members. Luckily, not everyone turns up at once and we usually have between 45 to 50 people register for each event!

How the orchestra works

The Rusty Player Orchestra meets six times a year, usually at the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, University of Waikato.

If you are on our email mailing list, you will receive an email approximately six weeks before each event, asking for registrations. Music is made available at least a month before each event so that you have time to practice.

We have local tutors at most of our events who run sectional workshops helping players to build skills and confidence.

A shared afternoon tea gives an opportunity to meet fellow players, compare notes and make new friends. People who are new to the district find it a great way to make connections and feel like part of the community. At the end of each session there is a short, informal performance to family and friends so they can see what you have been up to.

How to join the Rusty Player Orchestra

It's easy! Either send an enquiry using the link below or email support@orchestras.org.nz telling us a bit about yourself including what instrument you play and at approximately what level.

Registration fees for 2026

There is no annual membership fee with players simply paying a registration fee for the events in which they participate. For 2026 the fees are:

$28 waged
$16 unwaged, community services card holder, students

2026 dates

1 March 2026 - Rusty Symphony
28 March 2026 - Rusty Big Play and Sing In
13 June 2026 - Rusty Remix
30 August 2026 - Rusty Celebrates
27 September 2026 - Rusty Showtime
29 November 2026 - Rusty Holiday

Play with us

Meet the Rusty Player Orchestra's conductor

Catherine Polglase is a conductor, violinist, and music educator based in Waikato. She holds a BA in Music and History from the University of Auckland and a Diploma of Teaching. As a violinist, she performs with ensembles including NZ Barok, Pipers Sinfonia, and OCT Ensemble. Catherine studied conducting with Karen Grylls, Rita Paczian, and Chad Davenport, and violin with David Nalden and Graham McPhail. She leads Vox Baroque at St Peter’s Cathedral, is manager and Associate Conductor of Youth Orchestra Waikato and is HOD of Instrumental Music at St Peter’s School, Cambridge.

"I love love love coming along to Rusty days. The informality and casual nature is perfect and a good selection of music, something for all levels usually. Just a great general vibe" - Rusty Player

“Thank you for organising this! For the encouragement, the fun, the help of professionals and the lovely afternoon tea”
Rusty Player

“Was a great thing to do – very rusty!” - Rusty Player

“I play with TWSO and loved being able to support the rusty players (and some of them were really good!)”
Rusty tutor

Email: support@orchestras.org.nz
Phone: 07 949 9295

Player Portal:
members.orchestras.org.nz