Fall concert "New Beginnings" - October 22, 2023 7PM~

About Us

Greater Columbus Community Orchestra

The Greater Columbus Community Orchestra (GCCO) originated in the 1960's as the Northwest Civic Orchestra. This ensemble of amateur and professional musicians grew into the Upper Arlington Civic Orchestra. In 2001 the organization sought non-profit status and changed the name to the Upper Arlington Community Orchestra. In 2008 the orchestra changed its name to Greater Columbus Community Orchestra to reflect a broader constituency and move its base to Hilliard.

GCCO Mission Statement:

The Upper Arlington Community Orchestra d/b/a Greater Columbus Community Orchestra is dedicated to the enhanced appreciation and understanding of orchestral music in Central Ohio and the surrounding communities. This is accomplished by providing an open-door opportunity for musicians (amateur, retired, professional or semi-professional) to play, learn and perform orchestral music for others and thus through a shared musical experience, realize self-potential, a spirit of generosity and opportunities for growth. All performances will be free and open to the public.

About Our Conductor

Alex Toa, originally of Pittsburgh, PA, has distinguished himself as a versatile conductor with an energetic and charismatic approach to classic, pops & contemporary orchestral literature.

With commanding performances in both Canada and the United States, Toa has conducted the Charleston Symphony, Rochester Philharmonic, Eastman Philharmonia, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, UBC Symphony Orchestra, University of Oregon Symphony Orchestra, and the Duquesne Symphony Orchestra.

Alex completed his Master’s Degree in Orchestral Conducting at the University of British Columbia where he studied with Dr. Jonathan Girard. Outside of his involvement in the arts, Toa is an avid “techie” working in Digital Mainframe Infrastructure at JPMorgan Chase & Co.