The Bruce Long Orchestra is by design, a volunteer organization, although members are typically compensated for performances. Most musicians have been with the orchestra for at least several years but from time to time there is the need to fill a vacancy. 

The ideal candidate is a good musical reader and experience in playing jazz and/or swing, at least at the high school level is a plus. Of equal importance is showing respect for others in the group by being dependable and prepared. The band meets only twice a month for two hours per session. No parts are doubled so all are important and some are critical. Performances are sporadic, typically scheduled months in advance, and may fall on any day of the week. The band's extensive library is comprised of charts ranging in difficulty from Easy to Medium-Advanced with most falling somewhere between.