Nebraska Orchestra Provides Outlet for Medical Musicians

May 9th, 2023

The Nebraska Medical Orchestra is a collaboration between the University of Nebraska at Omaha and the University of Nebraska Medical center. It’s a volunteer orchestra, consisting of all healthcare-related musicians. Matthew Brooks is an Assistant Professor for the UNO School of Music, as well as the Director of Orchestral Activities and Music in Medicine. Brooks says the NMO has become more than just a musical outlet for the members. 

The NMO has reached beyond the UNMC campus to welcome members from other medical communities within the area to join. Brooks says the NMO is opened to really anyone that is affiliated with healthcare. The Nebraska Medical Orchestra can also provide the opportunity for barriers to be broken down between student and faculty, making the process of getting to know each other a little bit easier. Brooks says he doesn’t want medical students that were once musicians to lose their passion for music, that is why medical orchestras are vital to keeping that outlet active in their lives. 

The Nebraska Medical Orchestra is having a concert tonight, May 9 at 7:30pm in UNO’s Strauss Performing Arts Center. They will not only be performing with UNO’s orchestra, but with the Nebraska Medical Choir, as well.  

Both the Nebraska Medical Orchestra and choir generally have about one concert a semester, but there have been instances where special performances from the groups happen. Brooks says whether you’re a music major or pre-med, orchestra is a great group to be part of, and all students are welcome to join.

To find out more about tonight’s concert or the Nebraska Medical Orchestra, visit their page on UNMC.edu