Seattle Rock Orchestra

About Seattle Rock Orchestra

photo by Jason Tang

Seattle Rock Orchestra doesn't hide behind a rock band ... it is the rock band! SRO utilizes strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, and rotating cast of exciting guest vocalists to deliver high energy tribute shows unlike any other. Each SRO show offers a dynamic mix of possibilities: a classy night out at the symphony with the infectious energy of a dance party; searing rock solos with intimate orchestral moments of staggering beauty; and fan favorite sing-alongs with lesser known 'deep cuts'—combining to create a fun yet profoundly moving night out that honors the featured artist's lasting legacy.

SRO was founded in 2008 by bassist, composer, and educator Scott Teske. After a spurt of rapid growth, (like a awkward teenager), Music Director and Conductor extraordinaire Kim Roy came onboard in 2010 to tame our unruly gang of musical misfits with her unique panache.

Over the years SRO has racked up an impressive resume that includes collaborations with the likes of Elvis Costello, Macklemore, DeVotchKa, Sir Mix-a-Lot, Damien Jurado, DRAM, Allen Stone, and members of Big Star, The Posies, R.E.M., Nada Surf, and Pearl Jam, on stages across Washington State, including Seattle's Paramount, Moore & Neptune Theatres, Sasquatch Music Festival, Summer Meltdown Festival, and Timber Outdoor Music Festival.

In 2012, SRO began its expansion into a full-fledged arts organization with the introduction of the Seattle Rock Orchestra Summer Intensive, a week long summer day camp for middle & high school musicians, which now hosts two sessions at Seattle's Moore Theatre and at Kirkland Performance Center. Other SRO programs include
Seattle Rock Orchestra Quintet, SRO's elite chamber ensemble, Seattle Rock Orchestra Social Club, an adult amatuer community orchestra, and Seattle Rock Orchestra Street Band, a New Orleans-style brass band and mobile party unit.

In addition to its acclaimed public performances, Seattle Rock Orchestra (and its variants) are available to add a touch of magic to weddings, corporate & private parties, galas, openings, and other special events.

SRO's Mission

Seattle Rock Orchestra believes in the power of music and the arts to heal, nourish, inspire and invigorate. SRO is committed to producing experiences that entertain, educate, and foster community, while continuing the performance and study of orchestral music as a vibrant and vital art form.

Seattle Rock Orchestra is an Associated Program of Shunpike.

Shunpike is a 501(c)(3) non-profit art service organization whose mission is to strengthen the Seattle arts community by partnering with small and mid-size arts groups to develop the business tools they need to succeed. Working in close partnership with these groups, Shunpike helps solve problems quickly and impart vital skills in finance, organizational management and arts administration.