Grand Finale Campaign
We’ve raised $28 million. Just $5 million to go.
Join us in securing the future of youth music education by helping us fully fund the WYSO Center for Music.
$1,000,000 Matching Gift Opportunity from Diane Ballweg
1:1 match for all gifts and pledges of $100,000 – $250,000 made between March 24, 2025 and June 30, 2025
Watch the story of The WYSO Center for Music
Discover how WYSO is transforming lives through music—and why this new home matters to hundreds of young musicians across Wisconsin.
Special thanks to the entire team at ROACH Projects.
A vision decades in the making
Your gift today ensures that no child is turned away from music due to financial barriers—and that this vibrant hub for music and learning is here for generations to come.
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.
Rising construction costs pushed the total project to $33 million. With $28 million raised, we’re in the final stretch to retire the remaining $5 million and secure a debt-free, permanent home for music education in the heart of Madison.
Why it Matters
Every young musician deserves a place to dream, learn, and grow. At WYSO, music changes lives—building confidence, connection, and a lifelong love of the arts.
Your support fuels access, excellence, and opportunity for students across our community.
🎼 520 students enrolled
🌍 32 languages spoken by WYSO students
🏙️ 47 schools / 39 cities / 14 counties represented
💯 100% of students pay no more than 30% of program cost
👩🎓 17% of students receive full-need scholarships
🎶 30+ free outreach performances annually
Tour the WYSO Center for Music
Want to see the magic firsthand? Join us for a guided tour of the WYSO Center on the first Thursday of every month at 3:00 PM. Learn about the space, meet the team, and explore how your support is shaping the next generation of musicians.
Naming Opportunities
As we reach the Grand Finale of our Note by Note campaign, WYSO invites you to become a lasting part of our new home through a named gift. These opportunities allow donors to honor loved ones, celebrate their passion for music, or create a permanent legacy—while directly supporting music education for generations to come.
A variety of spaces and symbolic roles—such as rehearsal halls, gathering areas, and named section chairs—are available. Each opportunity includes recognition within the WYSO Center for Music and a meaningful connection to the students and programs your generosity supports. (Opportunities are limited and subject to availability.)
Be part of The Grand Finale
Every great performance deserves a triumphant ending. Help us raise the final $5 million and ensure WYSO’s new home can serve young musicians for decades to come.
Campaign Leadership
Diane Ballweg, Campaign Co-Chair
Bruce Matthews, Campaign Co-Chair
Javier Garay, Board Member
Mary Gerbig, Board President
Kyle Knox, Music Director
Michelle Kaebisch, Executive Director
Diane Mayland, Board Member
Charles McLimans, Director of Philanthropy
Jim McNulty, Cabinet Member
Nicholas Mischler, Board Member
Jake Penner, Marketing & Communications Manager
Eric Prudent, Development Manager
Thank you to all of our Note by Note and Grand Finale Campaign donors for supporting the next generation of Wisconsin musicians.
Would you like to speak with a member of WYSO’s Development Team? Email development@wysomusic.org or Charles McLimans, Director of Philanthopy, at charles@wysomusic.org or call 608.733.8283