It is 7:25 PM in the University of Montana Music Recital Hall. You take your seat for a performance of a rich baroque Adagio, or a cello concerto, or a stirring Spanish guitar solo. As the house lights dim, you watch the stage with a quiet, delicious anticipation. The evening's ensemble strides out onto the stage as the still air is cut with warm applause. With a brisk intake of breath, the performance begins.

The String Orchestra of the Rockies is raising the curtain on its 26th year. It is the only professional ensemble of its kind in Montana. SOR, as the orchestra is affectionately known, draws upon the talents of the finest string players in the Big Sky Country, including faculty members of the University of Montana and Montana State University in Bozeman. All SOR members are successful string teachers in addition to their professional performance schedule.
This unique 15-member gem of an orchestra invites audiences to connect emotionally with them as they treat listeners to music as varied as Montana itself. Members rehearse in a collaborative effort that enables each player to have an impact on the artistic process. Performing without a conductor; they rely upon the individual expertise of the players to create a cohesive, dynamic sound. Many varied world renowned guest artists have shared the stage with the SOR, resulting in a musical collaboration that is absolutely thrilling for the concert audience. In addition to these rare performances, SOR continues its commitment of ‘giving back’ to our community by offering master classes and workshops taught by these fine artists.