The following contains some 'legacy' blog information
for those interested in reading about the orchestras historic activities and recent past.
COVID-19 Virus Statement
Submitted by bill.duncan on Wed, 03/18/2020 - 12:18
We want to be pro-active to ensure that no one in our orchestra, their family members, friends and indeed our audiences are put at any risk of infection. Like many community based arts groups, we have taken the view that we will monitor how the virus progresses and to embrace 'social distancing' as a guiding principle. We will continue to look at the latest government heath advice and review the position on a regular basis.
Useful links:
It is important to have reliable information. The BC Centre for Disease Control has excellent up-to-date resources (updated daily) on matters such as Current Data, Symptoms, Testing, Self-isolation, Travel , Pets, Childcare and School, Event planning etc.
Similarly the latest Federal Government information is a useful and reliable source of information and can be found at
We very much wish all our members, supporters and collaborators good health and we look forward to making music with you.
WRCO featured in Peace Arch News
Submitted by bill.duncan on Wed, 12/04/2019 - 10:30
WRCO featured in Peace Arch News: Thank you, Alex Browne! https://issuu.com/blackpress/docs/i20191129021749521/29
Submitted by bill.duncan on Mon, 11/25/2019 - 10:15
The South Surrey and White Rock Chamber of Commerce have selected White Rock Community Orchestra as a nominee for the prestigious Business Excellence Awards in the category of: Supporter of the Arts Business of the Year. This is only the second year that the awards have been opened to non Chamber members because The Chamber want the event to be a celebration of the diverse and growing business community in which we live. There has been so much enthusiasm and support for the awards that they were overwhelmed with responses.
Of all the entries received, a committee shortlisted White Rock Community Orchestra. The top 3 nominees will be selected, from which the award recipient will be chosen. The award recipient will be announced at the 21st Annual Business Excellence Awards Gala the evening of Wednesday, February 12, 2019 at the Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club.
2nd Pub Night scheduled for October 29th
Submitted by bill.duncan on Thu, 10/03/2019 - 12:01
Join us for a fun night out for a fundraiser to support WRCO. Entry fee of $20 will cover a Beef Burger or Vegetarian Burger with fries plus one beverage (basic hi-ball, Budweiser or soft drink; Wine $2 extra). The Pub Night will be held at the Village Pub, 12822 16th Ave, Ocean Park, South Surrey on October 29th from 6 - 9 PM. Come out and join the fun!
Read more about 2nd Pub Night scheduled for October 29th bill.duncan's blog
As part of Canadian Culture Days weekend (CULTUREDAYS.CA) , WRCO will participate in Peninsula Arts + Culture Alliance (PACA) “Creative Flow” event on September 29, at White Rock Community Centre, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM.
Submitted by bill.duncan on Mon, 08/19/2019 - 14:27
As part of Canadian Culture Days weekend (CULTUREDAYS.CA) , WRCO will participate in Peninsula Arts + Culture Alliance (PACA) “Creative Flow” event on September 29, at White Rock Community Centre, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM. For more information: https://pacawebsite.weebly.com Come visit our table, and enjoy the performances and displays of the local artistic talent in our community.
WRCO opens the new season on September 7. We are recruiting musicians now and would love to hear from you! We are a community group of all ages and abilities.
Submitted by bill.duncan on Mon, 08/19/2019 - 14:09
Alex Browne, Peace Arch News, has featured WRCO in the May 22 and May 17 editions. Click here to read!
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sat, 05/25/2019 - 09:51
Alex Browne, Peace Arch News Entertainment Editor has featured WRCO
in the May 22 and May 17 editions. Thank you Alex for your continued support of our orchestra!
Peace Arch News, May 17, 2019
Peace Arch News May 22, 2019
The Annual General Meeting was held February 16, 2019 after a rehearsal at Elks Club in White Rock, Congratulations to the new Board of officers and Directors.
Submitted by kevin.klop on Mon, 02/18/2019 - 11:53
The Spring Season begins January 5. If you are interested in being part of the orchestra, please contact us through this website.
Submitted by kevin.klop on Wed, 12/05/2018 - 14:00
The WRCO Holiday Concert sold out days before it began. Thank you to everyone who made this concert such a success. WRCO appreciates your support of our events.
Submitted by kevin.klop on Wed, 12/05/2018 - 13:59
The WRCO Autumn Season began with a bang September 8 by welcoming 8 new musicians, and our long-time French horn musician, returning after leave of absence. If you play bassoon, tuba, violin, viola, we still have a spot for you.
Submitted by kevin.klop on Wed, 09/12/2018 - 18:43
The Fiori Trio, representing White Rock Community Orchestra, will perform a Boccherini Trio at the Peninsula Arts and Culture Alliance Celebrates Canada Culture Day, Sunday Sept 30th at 1PM at the White Rock Community Centre
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 09/02/2018 - 14:38
On Violin I is Gillian Gjernes, A.R.C.T., Rita Buchy, Violin II and Concertmaster of White Rock Community Orchestra, and Dorle Eason, cellist with the Fraser Valley Symphony. Come and experience a beautiful musical selection.
White Rock Community Orchestra will have a table at this event providing information about the orchestra.
The Autumn Season begins September 8, at Masonic Hall, 15302 Pacific Avenue, White Rock. We have openings for musicians who play violin, viola, bassoon, clarinet, or French Horn. Please contact us through the website contact form for information
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 07/29/2018 - 16:19
WRCO is in the Peace Arch News in the May 18 edition.
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 05/20/2018 - 13:48
Peace arch news, May 18 edition - thank you Peace Arch News for your continued support of the arts!
WRCO new Board of Directors were elected today at the Annual General Meeting. Please see “Our Orchestra, Board of Directors”. Many congratulations to the new Board!
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sat, 02/24/2018 - 20:42
The WRCO Annual General Meeting will be held February 24th after rehearsal. All current members are invited to attend.
Submitted by kevinklop_0 on Thu, 02/08/2018 - 17:39
First Rehearsal Saturday,January 6th, 9:30am at the Hall - Looking forward to seeing you all
Submitted by kevin.klop on Fri, 12/29/2017 - 11:01
Orchestra pays tribute to local composer Walter O’Keeffe at December 2 concert. Please click the link to see Peace Arch News article: Article by Alex Browne Peace Arch News, December 01, 2017:
Submitted by kevin.klop on Fri, 12/01/2017 - 10:15
Article by Alex Browne Peace Arch News, December 01, 2017: https://issuu.com/blackpress/docs/i20171201041925942/24
Our Music Director, Paula DeWit, presents performances of The Messiah with the Chilliwack Symphony Orchestra Click here for more information.
Submitted by kevin.klop on Mon, 11/13/2017 - 22:44
Tickets available here: http://chilliwacksymphony.com/2017-2018-season/
Visit their website at http://chilliwacksymphony.com
Submitted by kevin.klop on Mon, 10/30/2017 - 06:43
Handel’s Messiah coming to White Rock Baptist Church on November 30. Early Music Vancouver mounts beloved yuletide tradition with Vancouver Cantata Singers, the Pacific Baroque Orchestra, and world-renown soloists.
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 10/15/2017 - 21:37
In recognition of fine music, Handel's Messiah is coming to White Rock November 30. Early Music Vancouver’s production of the traditional Christmas production will be held at White Rock Baptist Church.
For production and ticket information see: http://www.earlymusic.bc.ca/events/handels-messiah-white-rock/
For promotional video see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyJURQoy5sE
Peace Arch News features Conductor Paula De Wit’s nomination for Heinz Unger 2017 Award: Peace Arch News, October 06, 2017:
Submitted by kevin.klop on Fri, 10/06/2017 - 21:01
WRCO Conductor, Paula DeWit, has been nominated for the prestigious Canadian music award:
The 2017 Heinz Unger Award. We are very proud of her, and wish her success in achieving this award. See: http://www.arts.on.ca/awards/ontario-arts-council-awards/
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 09/17/2017 - 15:58
The Autumn Seasoning opening welcomed new musicians on piano, cello, trumpet, and flute, and a challenging new program for our December 2 concert at St. John’s Presbyterian Church. Hold on to your hats, this will be a great performance year!
Submitted by kevin.klop on Tue, 09/12/2017 - 20:06
WRCO featured in Peace Arch News “This is The Life” special edition,
Submitted by kevin.klop on Tue, 05/16/2017 - 16:37
WRCO featured in Peace Arch News “This is The Life” special edition, pages 8, 9, 10, 11: April 28, 2017
We will perform May 6, and Semiahmoo Mall for a short concert.
Submitted by kevin.klop on Thu, 04/27/2017 - 10:02
We are performing at the 60th Birthday Celebration of City of White Rock:
Submitted by kevin.klop on Tue, 04/11/2017 - 06:50
We welcome new members Marcie, playing oboe, Bill playing trumpet, and Reynhardt playing bass clarinet
Submitted by kevin.klop on Tue, 04/11/2017 - 06:49
Web site updates
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 03/12/2017 - 19:10
Member page now uses the account name and password given out at the AGM. Board and AGM minutes added. Rehearsal and performance schedules updated on the member's page.
Annual General Meeting will be held February 25th after rehearsal
Submitted by kevin.klop on Fri, 02/03/2017 - 16:57
Welcome new musician Kevin on Tuba
Submitted by kevin.klop on Fri, 02/03/2017 - 16:57
First Executive meeting of 2017 was held January 28th
Submitted by kevin.klop on Fri, 02/03/2017 - 16:56
Thank you Alex Browne, Peace Arch News, for the fine article and photo in Dec. 9 edition
Submitted by kevin.klop on Fri, 12/09/2016 - 20:29
Christmas concert feature in the Peace Arch News
Submitted by kevin.klop on Fri, 12/02/2016 - 21:41
Online ticket ordering now available
Submitted by kevin.klop on Mon, 11/21/2016 - 11:30
You can now order tickets to our concerts through Brown Paper Bag. SImply click on this link to access our web ordering form.
WRCO Maestra DeWit featured in Peace Arch News, page 23, November 16.
Submitted by kevin.klop on Mon, 11/21/2016 - 05:35
Next Board Meeting is noon, October 29, White Rock Library
Submitted by kevin.klop on Mon, 10/24/2016 - 06:48
Welcome new musicians Suzanne on Viola and Jim on Violin
Submitted by kevinklop_0 on Tue, 09/27/2016 - 08:23
Welcome new members Sue and Thomas
Submitted by kevinklop_0 on Sun, 09/18/2016 - 14:59
Welcome new members: Sue, who plays cello, and Thomas, who plays alto saxophone.
Next Board Meeting
Submitted by kevinklop_0 on Tue, 09/13/2016 - 16:01
The next Board Meeting will be held on September 17, at the White Rock Library Meeting Room at 12:00 PM.
First rehearsal a success!
Submitted by kevinklop_0 on Tue, 09/13/2016 - 16:00
The first rehearsal of the year on September 10 yielded eight new members. A hearty welcome is offered to violinists Mirei and Jennifer; Greg on cello; Rose on Flute; percussionists Ann, Devin, and Nicholas; and Dani on alto saxophone.
WRCO Director in Peace Arch news
Submitted by kevinklop_0 on Fri, 08/26/2016 - 13:14
An article about our new conductor, Paula, appeared in this week's Peach Arch News
WRCO Board of Directors have approved hiring Paula DeWit as new Conductor/Music Director
Submitted by kevinklop_0 on Sat, 07/09/2016 - 15:06
June 4th concert offered a fond farewell to our conductor Stuart Martin
Submitted by kevin.klop on Tue, 06/14/2016 - 01:17
Next Board Meeting April 9
Submitted by kevin.klop on Mon, 03/28/2016 - 14:39
at 11:45 AM at the White Rock Public Library
Welcome new member!
Submitted by kevin.klop on Mon, 03/28/2016 - 14:38
We have a Viola player, Ko-Chia. Please join us in giving her a warm welcome!
Next Board meeting - March 5
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sat, 02/27/2016 - 01:21
The next meeting of the White Rock Community Orchestra Society board will be at the White Rock Library on March 5th immediately following rehearsal.
Next Annual General Meeting Feb 20 11:00 AM at rehearsal
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sat, 02/13/2016 - 10:16
Welcome new member Anthony
Submitted by kevin.klop on Wed, 01/27/2016 - 05:53
Welcome new member, Anthony, on first violin, but also proficient on piano.
Welcome 2 new members
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sat, 01/16/2016 - 12:02
At our first rehearsal of 2016, we welcomed two new members: Bryan, primarily on percussion, but also proficient on piano and clarinet, and Fei Li on piano/keyboard.
We have a home
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 12/13/2015 - 14:19
St. John's Presbyterian Church will be our home for two concerts annually.
Welcome Returning Member
Submitted by kevin.klop on Mon, 11/30/2015 - 20:56
Last week a former WRCO member returned to join us again. We welcome Boris with his long term experience on the trumpet.
Next Board Meeting
Submitted by kevin.klop on Fri, 11/20/2015 - 11:21
The Board of Directors meeting will be held November 21, at 12:00 at White Rock Library.
Welcome 2 new members
Submitted by kevin.klop on Thu, 11/19/2015 - 23:04
Last week we welcome experienced musicians Steven, on Double Bass, and Gerry, on Clarinet to the orchestra.
WRCO and the City of White Rock
Submitted by kevin.klop on Thu, 11/19/2015 - 23:02
The City of White Rock website has added The White Rock Community Orchestra to its Arts and Culture Community Page.
WRCO in Peace Arch News
Submitted by kevin.klop on Thu, 11/19/2015 - 22:57
We're in the news! In the November 11th edition in "The Scene" section, we have a photo of the orchestra published. The following edition, November 18, we have an actual article about us. To see the articles, please follow this link:
Tickets on Sale!
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 11/15/2015 - 15:08
Tickets are on sale now for our public performance! Please help support your local orchestra by purchasing a ticket (or 10) and come hear your friends and neighbours perform.
Tickets are available from any member of White Rock Community Orchestra or Cantrix member.
Results of the General Meeting on Nov. 7
Submitted by kevin.klop on Tue, 11/10/2015 - 17:42
Ratification of Draft 6 Constitution and Bylaws was not approved, but delayed until the February AGM, allowing time for membership feedback to January 15, 2016 and for a new Draft prior to the AGM. Two issues had much discussion: members did not have sufficient time to respond to the C&B Draft proposal; and an age minimum for new members. To promote responses, Draft 6 C&B will be posted to http://wrco.ca website. Members may submit comments and feedback via the website, or by email to the president.
Welcome New Member
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 11/01/2015 - 15:57
We are pleased to welcome William, who is accomplished on alto, tenor and soprano saxophones, as well as clarinet.
Holiday Concert Information
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 11/01/2015 - 12:12
The Holiday Concert on December 5, at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 1480 George Street, White Rock will begin at 7:30 PM.
Featured Guests: The Cantrix Women’s Choir
Tickets: $15, Children under 12 No Charge
General Meeting Called
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 11/01/2015 - 12:11
It was announced by Don Miller at rehearsal Saturday, October 24, that on November 7, a GENERAL MEETING of WRCO will be held immediately after rehearsal to:
ratify the New Constitution & Bylaws, and
approve an increase in annual dues from $120 to 150+
Welcome New Members
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 11/01/2015 - 12:10
WRCO welcomes new member Anne who will assist in our music library.
Website out of tune
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 11/01/2015 - 12:09
wrco.ca website is undergoing extensive upgrades and changes, which will be completed shortly. Thank you for your patience.
Holiday Concert date and location
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 11/01/2015 - 12:08
Our public holiday concert will be held December 5, at the St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 1480 George Street, White Rock.
Ticket information and concert time has yet to be announced.
Welcome New Members
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sun, 11/01/2015 - 12:07
WRCO welcomes two new musicians, cellist Charlotte and violinist Joy.
Welcome Mr. Stuart Martin
Submitted by kevin.klop on Sat, 10/31/2015 - 12:26
Welcome to Mr. Stuart Martin, our new conductor for the 2015-2016 season. He's taking over the reins from long time conductor Roger Wecker, bringing his own experience and energy to the White Rock Community Orchestra.