About Us

NUSO consists of two ensembles—a Symphonic Orchestra and a Chamber Orchestra.  The Symphonic Orchestra is a large group that plays a wide range of repertoire, from classic symphonies, overtures, and concerti to more contemporary works, student compositions, and pops music.  The Chamber Orchestra is a more select ensemble that approaches repertoire to match the greater level of experience of its players.  The repertoire has a similar variety.  To participate in the Chamber Orchestra a musician must also play in the Symphonic Orchestra.

The Symphonic Orchestra is led by Prof. Allen Feinstein and the Chamber Orchestra by Prof. Allison Betsold.  

Prof. Feinstein returns to lead NUSO after a long hiatus.  As a composer his work has been commissioned by the Boston Symphony Orchestra for their Concerts for Very Young People series.  A concerto Prof. Feinstein wrote that was premiered by NUSO was subsequently recorded by the New Zealand Symphony and went on to win an international award.  In addition to conducting standard classical repertoire, he has conducted NUSO accompanying silent films and a fully staged opera.  For a full bio, click here.

Prof. Betsold is entering her tenth year at Northeastern where she has transformed the ensembles she leads, receiving the CAMD Impact Teaching award during the 2024-2025 school year.  She has conducted members of the Boston Symphony Orchestra as guest soloists with the NU Concert Band, and has spearheaded tremendous growth of the NU Pep Band, leading the group at sporting events at Northeastern and on numerous tours.  For a full bio, click here.

Among NUSO’s goals are:

·       Performing at a high level musically

·       Providing members with both a musical and social outlet

·       Providing students with leadership opportunities through its Council

·       Exploring members’ musical goals: Many players see participation in NUSO as an opportunity to continue their musical lives in college, playing great repertoire, meeting other musicians, and enjoying the social and musical opportunity of rehearsing weekly with a large ensemble.  Other players might also be interested in new musical experiences—writing a work for the group to read; conducting; leading a section of the orchestra; performing a solo; initiating a community service concert, etc.  NUSO faculty and student leadership is interested in working with members to make the NUSO experience meet their goals.

Meeting times:

Both ensembles meet on Wednesday evenings.  The Symphonic Orchestra meets from 6:00-7:25; the Chamber Orchestra from 7:35-9:00.  Both groups meet in the Fenway Center, 77 St. Stephens Street.

Upcoming Events & Performances