PROFESSIONAL ORCHESTRA (GFFO) – 
The GFFO is based in San Francisco, CA. We perform throughout the state as a pickup, pit, and movie theater ensemble. We value professional musicians and engineers. We contract musicians and engineers based on specific needs for each performance. Professional-level technique and sightreading skills are required. Contact us if you're interested and are available for performances. Please include your travel radius. 
 

THE GFFO EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM (GFFO-EP)– 
In addition to our professional productions, The Grand Feature Film Orchestra offers approximately 40 free training sessions each year, along with a special open summer student film orchestra program. Student/amateur members may join for free and attend our rehearsals/classes to develop their skills.

Our core mission is to pass on the craft of creative arts to aspiring and amateur creatives. We believe the best way to learn is to work alongside professionals in the creative community. This side-by-side opportunity is a fun, challenging, and educational experience. 

Student/amateur members are not required to perform but are encouraged to participate alongside professional members. NOTE: Limited student/amateur performance seats are available. Student members must demonstrate  basic skills, tone quality, and reading. The primary responsibility for musical performance rests with paid and volunteer professional members. No pressure will be placed on student/amateur members to perform beyond their challenge level. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I join as a student/amateur member?
To start, hit the online application button above to schedule your first appointment. 

Is there a charge for membership, student tuition, or registration? 
There are no tuition, registration, or membership fees for this project.
The GFFO is a nonprofit organization that relies on grants and donations to cover most of our outreach operating costs. We accept and appreciate financial contributions of any amount. However, we're always honored to provide services to anyone who shares our commitment to musical excellence, at no cost. 

What is the time commitment for members?
Student/Amateur Musicians - We generally hold weekly training sessions for those interested in developing their skills. Students/amateurs are never required to perform, but may be invited to join a performance alongside a professional musician playing the same part. The performance responsibility always rests with the professional performer. Except for our summer student programs, most performances throughout the year have limited student chair availability (usually no more than 3). 

Professional Musicians and engineers-  Performing professional musicians aren't required to meet for rehearsals. Parts are provided in advance. Details are provided when contracted.

What instruments can be played in the GFFO?
We accept woodwinds, brass, percussion, strings, keyboard, and experimental musical & sound effect instruments. Any instrument you've heard in a movie soundtrack will be a valuable asset to our projects. Click here for more details.

What if I play a rare, unique, or experimental instrument?
If you play an unusual, rare, or unique instrument or have constructed your own musical device, it may be used in the GFFO. If you've created or if you seek to create an experimental instrument, we love being a part of sound experimentation. Click here for more details.

Is there an audition process to join as a student/amateur member?
There's no formal audition. Instead, members are placed based on their experience level and instrumentation needs. We have several options, from beginners with no experience to advanced musicians looking for an extra challenge. Members move up as their skills develop.

Does the GFFO have instruments to loan to students?
The student should have access to their own working instrument. We have access to some instruments and equipment. Sometimes, individuals donate instruments for GFFO use. In turn, we can loan this equipment to a student during their membership period. The availability of loaned instruments is limited.