Orlando Trachtenverein is always looking for persons who would like to join our group. You do not need any music or dancing experience to participate. We are actively searching for musicians, vocalists, and dancers. You may choose one or all three. You do not need to be or speak German to join us. The OTV does not currently charge any membership dues but we do recommend that our members join the German American Society of Central Florida.
We practice nearly every Thursday from 7-9pm in Oviedo. Feel free to come and check us out and see what we have to offer. It is recommended you contact us before coming to confirm our practice schedule.
Here at the OTV, we have members of various ages and dancing experience. Some came from music and/or dance backgrounds, some had little or no experience. Our mission is to further the Bavarian and Austrian traditions of Schuhplattler,folk dancing, folk music and singing, pascher, Goaßlschanlzer (whip cracking), and Gemütlichkeit. Whether you have prior dance experience or none at all, we can teach you everything you need to know. Members progress at their own rate and only perform in public when they are ready and feel comfortable doing so.
OTV is a member of the Gauverband Nordamerika and many members attend and participate in the biennial Gaufest. This festival is a combination of group and individual competitions, music and dance exhibitions, workshops, and parties. The event is hosted in a different city each time.
Most of the OTV performances are at Oktoberfests, corporate parties, and other festivals. On occasion, we perform at one of the monthly events at the German American Society. Our members wear the traditional tracht (clothing) and generally perform dance and musical sets between band breaks. Sometimes, we are both the band and the dancers, depending on the needs of the clients. Since we perform in public and want to look our best, we are dedicated to practicing our craft to make it the best it can be. Some of our members have specialized duties such as a specific musical instrument, some participate in all the dances, while others choose to do only some.
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Come join us at one of our practices.