The "Play with the Orchestra" event, which took place at Hanover Hall yesterday, involved community players learning the ropes from the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra (DSO).
Arts administrator Feby Idrus said the event was a way for community players to "see, hear and feel what it’s like to be in a professional orchestra".
"They can hear what standard is required and what kind of things conductors ask for and listen for."
The community players attended DSO’s performance on Saturday night before playing with the orchestra the next day.
"It’s always good for us to be cultivating local talent, to know who they are and to support them if we can.
"The community players sound like they’re rising to the challenge, which is really cool."
She said the event was aimed at players hoping to join the DSO in the future.
"It’s a little bit aspirational, I guess, especially for the younger players, so they can see where they’re headed."
Grade 6/7 French horn player Damian Dyke said the event was "a bit nerve-racking".
"But it’s really good and I’m learning a lot playing with the DSO members".
He hoped to one day play in the DSO.
