The Really Terrible Orchestra of Pennsylvania is modeled after the original RTO in Edinburgh, Scotland. It began with their envying the pleasure their children gained from music. As nobody else would have them, they formed their own orchestra! Their founder said, "It won’t be a good orchestra. In fact it will be a really terrible one." That is how the name came to be.

RTO-PA was founded by Colleen Schoneveld who was an adult beginner at violin. When she learned of the original RTO, she knew that she needed to start just such an orchestra; one that could be a place for beginners, people who haven't played in many years, and even for "real" musicians who wanted to start playing a secondary instrument.

To become a member, all you need is an instrument, a music stand, the ability to read music, and a sense of humor. You must promise to practice... or feel bad if you don't! ;-)

The Really Terrible Orchestra of Pennsylvania rehearses Thursdays from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm at Kirkland Village next door to Bethlehem Catholic High School.