FAQ

Who can play in SAO?

If you play and instrument, are attending the same convention as SAO, and have at least four years of experience on your instrument than you are welcomed to play with us. There is no audition! You only need to email in an application and learn all of your music before the convention starts. All music is tailored to the level of each application, so parts are no too hard or too easy for different level players.

How do I get involved?

Getting involved is easy; send Katie an application specifying the correct convention in the drop down box. If your convention is not in the drop down box than email Katie directly at Katie@animeorchestra.org and email the convention that you want us to come to with a request.

What do I need to own/have access to play in SAO?

  • your instrument - this is true for percussion and piano players!!! We do not provide amplification for guitars - you will need your own classical amp.
  • portable stand
  • printed out music (this will have be emailed before hand)
  • pencil
  • a way to be alert for morning rehearsals (coffee, mochi balls?) ^_~

    What do we perform in?

    Whatever you want – big pieces of cosplay must be removed if it is blocking the person behind you.

    Is there storage for my instrument?

    SAO has a suit at the hotel – the room number will be announced in an email Thursday night and during the first rehearsal. It is opened to storing your instruments and checked out Luggage Sunday morning. The room is only unlocked if a SAQ member is inside otherwise it is locked. If you need to get in, there will be a number on the door to call/txt and someone will come open it. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items – we have not have a problem with this in the past. Items left in the hotel room Monday morning after the convention will get driven back to CO and can get mailed to you at your expense.

    • Greg Hines, NDK Director

    “…I enjoyed listening to the SAO. They only played for about 45 minutes and I found myself disappointed that the concert didn’t last longer.”

    Dylan Otto Krider, The Buzz

    “…Vedder does an amazing job of adapting pop songs for the orchestra without sounding like elevator music.”

    Jonathan Peltzer, Oboe

    “SAO is my favorite event at the convention. It gives me the opportunity to collaborate and create something much greater than any of the individual participants, something we can be proud to share with friends and strangers alike.”

    Gary Messick, NDK attendee

    "It was a great show. The music was awesome and so fun though. I hope they play again next year!"