Support WYSO Today
Musical Notes
Donate to WYSO’s Annual Fundraiser
What is Musical Notes?
Musical Notes is WYSO’s annual family fundraising campaign! This fun, community-building effort helps keep tuition costs affordable while ensuring every musician has the resources they need to thrive. Tuition covers less than 20% of the cost of supporting a WYSO musician, so funds raised go directly back into the program.
Coming up!
Music Makers
Fall Concert ~ Sunday, Dec. 14, 3:00pm
Join us for an afternoon of joyful music-making as WYSO Music Makers students take the stage for their Fall Concert. This performance celebrates the growth and dedication of our young musicians, many of whom are just beginning their musical journeys. Families, friends, and community members are warmly invited to share in the energy, heart, and progress on display.
Coming up!
Ensembles Recital
Harp, Flute & Brass ~ Saturday, Dec. 13, 4:00pm
Join us as WYSO’s chamber ensembles ring in the winter season with a beautiful afternoon of music. This concert brings together three unique groups — Harp Ensemble, Flute Choir, and Brass Ensembles — each showcasing the dedication and artistry of our young musicians under the guidance of WYSO’s outstanding faculty.
Coming up!
Chamber Recitals
Tuesday, Dec. 16, 7:00pm
Experience an evening of intimate ensemble performance as WYSO’s most dedicated young musicians take the stage for their winter chamber recital. From duos to quartets, each performance highlights the collaborative artistry that defines great chamber music.
Coming up!
Chamber Recitals
Wednesday, Dec. 17, 7:00pm
Settle into a cozy winter evening of chamber music as our student musicians present a second night of intimate ensemble performances. From elegant trios to expressive string quartets and woodwind chamber works, this recital highlights both developing and advanced musicians at their most collaborative.
Did you know…
The WYSO Center
is available for rent?
Are you looking for the perfect space to hold your next rehearsal, recital, meeting or event? The brand new WYSO Center is now available for rent!
The WYSO Center for Music is home to the Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras but that’s not all it is! Our new building at 1118 E. Washington Ave. in Madison is already buzzing with musicians and businesses from the larger Madison community. Click below to learn how the WYSO Center can support your next big meeting or event.
Did you know…
The WYSO Story
Watch Now
For nearly 60 years, WYSO students rehearsed in borrowed spaces—churches, schools, and parking lots. Today, the WYSO Center for Music is open and thriving, but we need your help to finish strong.
Support WYSO
2025–2026
Your Chair is Waiting!
Consider an Endowed Chair in honor of a loved one!
With WYSO’s Endowed Chair Program, you can honor someone in a meaningful way while supporting WYSO’s transformative music programs and opportunities.
WHO
WE ARE
OUR
EVENTS
Absence
Request Form
Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras
IMAGINE a new home for WYSO with room for all of WYSO’s current programs under a single roof, with state- of-the-art rehearsal spaces for orchestras and ensembles of all sizes, studio teaching spaces, admin offices, and a music library. With a location in a vibrant section of downtown Madison, WYSO can become a part of a growing youth arts community and a key collaborator to foster creativity and community events.
ABOUT
WYSO
WYSO was established in 1966 by Professor Marvin Rabin of the University of Wisconsin-Extension. More than 5,000 young musicians from communities throughout southern Wisconsin have participated in WYSO during its 50+ years of existence. Under the artistic direction of Kyle Knox, WYSO includes orchestras, chamber groups, ensemble programs, and the WYSO Music Makers program.
OUR MISSION
Enriching Lives by Providing Transformational Musical Experiences & Opportunities
Derek Powell
Derek Powell is a versatile violinist and recording artist, as comfortable on-stage performing alternative styles as he is uncovering the subtleties of the great classical works. Currently based in Washington, D.C., Derek performs with the National Symphony Orchestra....
Derek Powell
Derek Powell is a versatile violinist and recording artist, as comfortable on-stage performing alternative styles as he is uncovering the subtleties of the great classical works. Currently based in Washington, D.C., Derek performs with the National Symphony Orchestra....
SUPPORT
WYSO
Your donation will provide opportunity and inspiration that lasts a lifetime. We are thankful for your support and investment in our students!
UPCOMING EVENTS
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