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Mission and History of

The Silver Clouds Community Orchestra

Saint Cloud Florida

The Silver Clouds Orchestra consists of 35 musicians from ages 12 to 85 who donate their time and musical skills for their mutual enjoyment and the enjoyment of the public in the St. Cloud/Kissimmee area. The only qualifications needed are the ability to read music, and the willingness to attend rehearsals and concerts. There are no dues or tryouts.

The Orchestra is structured as a Club within the St. Cloud Senior Center family of clubs. We play at civic, charitable and community events. There is usually no charge for the concerts, but donations to cover the cost of music and supplies are accepted and appreciated. We play pops, classical, show, holiday and dance music.

A number of our members have played professionally. Many have played in one group or another for their entire adult lives. Others have come back to their instruments after completing other careers, and are looking for an outlet for their renewed skills. Some are just learning.

To those recent high school graduate instrumentalists remaining in the St. Cloud area, and those of all ages just moving into the area, we extend a warm invitation to join us.

Both permanent and winter residents are welcome to join. Contact us by calling:

President: Bill Lauer 407 738-9643 (cell)

Vice President: Carolyn Walker 321 286-6147 (cell)

Treasurer: Leslie Futral 407 957-4234

Secretary: Arlene Swain 407 344-9974

Members at Large: David Bilby, Director Richard Steirer and Jane Berkley

Concerts can be scheduled for the winter and summer.

History

The group was formed as the Golden Age Ensemble under the umbrella of the Golden Age Club in the fall of 1963. The founder was Mrs. Glen Falka, an accordion teacher. The original group consisted of five accordions, a violin, trombone, mandolin and drums.

The group was renamed the Silver Clouds Orchestra, and became a part of the St. Cloud Senior Center. It has added trumpets, clarinets, saxophones, chimes, piano, baritones, cello, bass and tuba. The accordions and mandolin are gone. It has rehearsed in several different halls including the old senior center on Indiana, the Osceola Center for Performing Arts, and now our new home in the Senior Center on 17^th St.

 Beginning with Mrs. Falka, the group was directed by William Caultrap, Alice Murlin, Don Carpp, Andrew Canedy, Francis DiVirgilio and Steve Gonnella.

Our current Music Director is Mr. Richard Steirer. New arrangements are provided by Mr. Steve Orange.

In 2005 the group was renamed the Silver Clouds Community Orchestra to promote the group as open to musicians of all ages in the surrounding counties.