SPASH brings in new orchestra director

By Patrick Lynn

SPASH has tapped the talent of the Central Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra Program to take over its school orchestral program.

Stephan Wucherer is the new orchestra director for SPASH. He will also be taking over the direction of the fifth- and sixth-grade orchestra programs at elementary schools across the district.

Wucherer said he was “thrilled” for the opportunity.

Wucherer holds a Bachelor’s degree in cello performance from UW-Oshkosh and attended Butler University in Indianapolis for his Master’s in music. He also holds a Masters of Education from Marian University. In addition, he has performed with many local orchestras throughout Wisconsin and conducted the Waupaca Area Orchestra for three seasons.

“Over the years, I’ve had many students from Ben Franklin, P.J. Jacobs, and SPASH in my youth symphony ensembles so this new position brings many things full circle for me and my family.”

CWSO is expanding its music education opportunities through its Youth Symphony Orchestra Program throughout central Wisconsin this fall. Registration is open for the Philharmonia and the Youth Symphony Orchestra at cwso.org. All students in grades 6-12 are welcome to join the program from any district area in central Wisconsin.

The Central Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra Program was founded in 2014 in partnership with UW-Stevens Point Continuing Education, UW-Stevens Point Music Department, Aber Suzuki Center, Heid Music, and regional music educators in Central Wisconsin.

Two full symphony orchestras comprised of students from Portage, Wood, Marathon, Waupaca, Waushara, Shawano, and Lincoln counties rehearse weekly during the academic year at the Noel Fine Arts Center on the UW-Stevens Point campus. Students receive mentoring from top music education majors and faculty of the UW-Stevens Point Music Department and Aber Suzuki Center faculty.

For more information regarding CWSO and CWYSOP, visit cwso.org.