Play With MRO
The Minnehaha Repertory Orchestra brings together skilled musicians to explore masterworks and contemporary repertoire in a collaborative reading orchestra environment. Sessions focus on experiencing complete works, expanding repertoire knowledge, and strengthening ensemble musicianship through regular sight-reading and performance.
A Unique Opportunity for Orchestra Musicians
Who Participates
MRO welcomes musicians with prior orchestral experience who are comfortable preparing and performing challenging symphonic repertoire.
String players are welcome to contact us or attend a reading session.
Wind and brass players should contact the orchestra in advance regarding available openings.
No formal auditions are required.
How Reading Sessions Work
Unlike a traditional rehearsal orchestra, MRO's reading sessions focus on exploring complete works with minimal rehearsal. This approach allows musicians to encounter new repertoire, revisit familiar works, and develop reading, listening, and ensemble skills through regular participation.
Opportunities Beyond Reading Sessions
Musicians who participate regularly may have opportunities to perform in public concerts and, in some cases, appear as concerto soloists with the orchestra.
Repertoire & Parts
Most selections are available through IMSLP, a free online library of public domain music. Parts are sent to participating musicians by email ahead of each session. Hard copies are available for select works upon request.Interested in Participating?
Contact Artistic Director, Craig Randal Johnson:
Email: crjmhahamusic@gmail.com
Phone: 612-804-9679
Reading Sessions
MRO reading sessions are held bi-weekly in the orchestra room at Edina High School from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted. (Concert dress rehearsal times are listed below.) We hope you'll join us.
September 12, 2026
September 19
October 3
October 17
November 14
November 28
January 2, 2027
January 9
January 16
January 23/ Concert Dress Rehearsal
Concert: January 24 at 3:00 PM
February, March and April reading sessions TBA
How to get here
Take Highway 62/Crosstown to the Tracy Ave. exit and turn south. Proceed straight through the roundabout and up the hill, then bear right at the stop sign. Edina High School will be on your right — continue to the far entrance at the Edina High School sign and drive down the hill to Door 5, the main entrance.
Inside, take the stairs or elevator to the second floor. Turn right from the stairs, or left from the elevator, and follow the hall through the brown doors on the right. You've arrived.