Symphony Orchestra is the premiere auditioned ensemble at Volcano Vista High School. Students are independently motivated musicians who take their craft seriously. Symphony Orchestra regularly receives "Superior" ratings at NMMEA Music Performance Assessment Festival and other contests. Individual members are well-represented in NMMEA All-State ensembles and receive "Superior" ratings at NMMEA Solo & Ensemble Festival. Symphony Orchestra also collaborates with the Volcano Vista choral and band programs for special performances of literature for large combined groups. The ensemble performs at least 4 concerts per year and is the flagship recruiting ensemble for the VVHS Orchestra program.

Concert Orchestra is the entry point into the world of Orchestra at Volcano Vista High School. In Concert Orchestra, students master the technical skills and problem-solving processes required of successful musicians. Concert Orchestra performs 4 concerts per year and participates in NMMEA Music Performance Assessment Festival. Students are also encouraged to audition for All-State and participate in Solo & Ensemble.