The University of Georgia Symphony Orchestra (UGASO) is one of the School of Music's premier performing ensembles, under the direction of Mr. Mark Cedel. It is composed entirely of students, the majority of whom are from the School of Music. Members are selected by auditions held the first week of fall semester. Under the direction of Mark Cedel, the orchestra presents approximately seven major performances per year. The UGASO is dedicated to the study and performance of significant orchestral music. The symphony also collaborates with many faculty and guest soloists in performances of the major concerto literature. Each year the symphony takes part in the Athena Grand Opera Company's fully staged productions. In addition, the symphony serves as the lab orchestra for various academic classes including composition and orchestral conducting.