Central Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra to present spring concert
By Patrick Lynn
STEVENS POINT – The Central Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra Program (CWYSOP) has announced its upcoming Spring 2024 Concert.
Scheduled for Sunday, April 7, at 4 p.m., the performance will take place at the Stevens Point Area Senior High School (SPASH). This marks the second Youth Symphony concert hosted by the CWSO since it assumed control of the program in May 2023.
Tickets for the concert are priced at $5 (cash or check) and will be available exclusively at the door on April 7th. The concert will feature 78 middle and high school students performing. Philharmonia Conductor Austin Bolden and Symphony Orchestra Conductor Steve Wucherer have been diligently rehearsing with the students since September, typically meeting weekly on Sunday afternoons.
Dr. Andy Moran, CWSO Music Director, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are very excited that we joined forces with the Central Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra Program! Their mission closely aligns with CWSO, so it is a perfect match for us and the musical community here in Central Wisconsin. The program provides tremendous opportunities for young musicians here in central Wisconsin.”
Steve Wucherer, CWYSOP Music Director, also shared his excitement, inviting the community to attend the concert. He said, “We hope you can join us at this concert. The ensembles have been working diligently to prepare for this spring performance.”
The concert program will include performances by both the Philharmonia and Symphony Orchestra. The Philharmonia will perform pieces such as “Slavonic Dances” by Antonin Dvorak, arranged by Merle J. Isaac, and “Jupiter – Bringer of Jollity” from “The Planets” by Gustav Holst, arranged by Leidig. The Symphony Orchestra will present works including “Fanfare for the Common Man” by Aaron Copland, arranged by Robert Longfield, and “Highlights from Jurassic Park” by John Williams, arranged by Calvin Custer.
This event serves as an important opportunity for young musicians in central Wisconsin to grow and develop their musical talents. Registration for Fall 2024 will open soon for the Philharmonia and the Symphony Orchestra at CWSO.ORG. All students in grades 6-12 are welcome to join the program, with fall rehearsals beginning on September 8, 2024.
Founded in 2014, the Central Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra Program operates in partnership with UW-Stevens Point Continuing Education, UW-Stevens Point Music Department, Aber Suzuki Center, Heid Music, and regional music educators. The program boasts two full symphony orchestras comprised of nearly 80 students from various counties, including Portage, Wood, Waushara, Shawano, Waupaca, Adams, Juneau, Marathon, Lincoln, and Langlade.
Weekly rehearsals are held during the academic year at the Noel Fine Arts Center on the UW-Stevens Point campus, where students receive mentoring from top music education majors and faculty.
