The Grand Valley Community Orchestra, barely two months old, is about to step into the spotlight with its debut concert — and its members couldn’t be more excited.

From a Cello Dream to a Full Ensemble

It all started with one musician’s personal wish. In June 2025, Candace Ruiz just wanted to play her cello with others. What she didn’t expect was that her idea would snowball into a 40-plus member orchestra in less than eight weeks.

“To me, just working together on something and as a community and working with a diverse group, young and old… I think that’s the best part of it,” Ruiz said.

She began by inviting a few local musicians to a casual gathering. But word spread quickly, attracting everyone from teenagers still in school to retirees with decades of playing experience.

Building a Sound from Scratch

The orchestra isn’t just a random collection of players. It’s a blend — some members come from the established Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra, while others are stepping into an orchestra for the first time.

Conductor Ben McLam says this mix has been a strength, not a challenge. “The culture and the community is so embracing of everyone, regardless of their ability or inability,” he said.

Rehearsals have been lively, sometimes messy, and often full of laughter. McLam admits it’s been hard work learning to play as one cohesive unit, but calls the process “really rewarding.”

The Faces Behind the Music

What makes this orchestra stand out isn’t just its repertoire — it’s the people. One night you might see a retired engineer playing next to a high school student. On another, a violinist who’s performed internationally might be sharing a music stand with someone who only picked up their instrument again last year.

For many, it’s about connection more than perfection. “They can actually connect with each other… maybe do some more quartets or just trios or whatever it is — they know each other now,” Ruiz said.

This spirit of connection means the group isn’t overly concerned with elite polish for their first show. Instead, they’re aiming for something more heartfelt — music that reflects the joy they’ve found in coming together.

The Road to Opening Night

With their debut set for August 13, rehearsals have shifted into high gear. McLam’s conducting style, described by members as “energetic but patient,” has kept everyone motivated.

Some evenings are devoted to fine-tuning tricky passages, while others are more relaxed, letting the music flow naturally. Here’s what an average week has looked like for them in the run-up to the big night:

• Monday: Sectional rehearsals for strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion

• Wednesday: Full orchestra run-through

• Friday: Focused work on problem spots in selected pieces

• Weekend: Optional practice sessions for members who want extra time together

It’s been a tight schedule, but members say it’s worth it to feel ready for an audience.

A Program for Everyone

While the full concert program hasn’t been publicly released, McLam hinted that it will feature a mix of classical favorites and more contemporary arrangements. The goal is to appeal to both seasoned concertgoers and first-time attendees.

Expect to hear recognizable melodies alongside pieces that might surprise — something to keep the audience’s ears engaged from the first note to the last.

Some selections are being kept under wraps, adding a little mystery to the evening. As one violinist put it, “You’ve got to give people a reason to show up.”

What Happens After the First Concert?

Ruiz is already thinking beyond opening night. She hopes the orchestra becomes a permanent fixture in the Grand Valley arts scene. There’s talk of performing seasonal concerts, collaborating with local choirs, and even doing outdoor shows in the summer.

For now, though, the focus is on making this debut a success — and giving every member the thrill of performing together on stage.

McLam says he’s not worried about mistakes. “It’s live music — things happen. But if we’re having fun and the audience is having fun, that’s the win.”