The Symphony Orchestra of the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance includes all orchestral-instrument students at the institution and performs the core repertoire of the symphonic music literature.

The orchestra’s working process is similar to that of comparable musical bodies at leading institutions around the world. Each orchestral project begins with auditions for all orchestra players. Preparation for the concerts then begins with an intensive rehearsal period led by sectional coaches from Israel’s leading orchestras. This is followed by separate rehearsals for the string and wind sections, and only afterward does the full orchestra come together for full rehearsals.

The orchestra’s goal is to provide Academy students with orchestral training at a professional level and to acquaint them with the cornerstone works of the orchestral repertoire.

Since the 2012–2013 academic year, the orchestra has borne the name of conductor Mendi Rodan. Mendi Rodan, recipient of the Israel Prize in Music, served as Professor of Conducting at the Academy from 1962 and as President of the Academy from 1985 to 1994. He conducted major orchestras in Israel and around the world and is considered one of the pioneers of academic music education in Israel.

The Academy regards this commemoration as an educational and moral act of the highest order, connecting the younger generation to Mendi Rodan’s legacy.