LAURA JACKSON | MUSIC DIRECTOR DESIGNATE
222 W. Washington Ave. Suite 460 Madison, WI 53703
for more information
LAURA JACKSON | MUSIC DIRECTOR DESIGNATE
INSPIRING
musical journeys
EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 2026-2027
For more information please contact: Lisa Kjentvet Director of Education & Community Engagement lkjentvet@madisonsymphony.org (608) 260-8680 ext. 225 madisonsymphony.org/education
EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 2026-2027
Welcome Music Director Designate, Laura Jackson! “From the moment a teacher put a violin into my hands, my life was changed forever. I learned I could make music, could be alive in music. The Madison Symphony’s Education and Community Engagement Programs can be the first step to lifelong enrichment and learning for anyone.” – Laura Jackson
Join us for the 2026-2027 season!
The Madison Symphony Orchestra is committed to serving our community through our Education and Community Engagement Programs. Our mission is to enrich lives through transformative musical experiences that ignite a passion for music, to engage with our community “We feel so lucky that through meaningful partnerships the Madison Symphony that foster belonging, and to has so many fantastic inspire lifelong musical journeys school programs!” sparked by curiosity. We invite – Music Educator you to join us on a journey to enrich, engage, and inspire!
Award-Winning Education & Community Engagement Programs Madison Symphony Orchestra Education Programs bring the valuable experience of classical music to youth and adults in our community — both inside and outside of the concert hall. Our Community Engagement Programs connect with music lovers of all ages to offer the opportunity for more people to experience the joy and healing power of music.
EDUCATION PROGRAMS 4 Up Close & Musical® 4 Guest Artist Outreach
YOUNG ARTIST COMPETITIONS 5 Topitzes Family Fall Youth Concerto Competition 5 Bolz Young Artist Competition
YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERTS 6 6 7 7
Fall Youth Concerts Spring Young People’s Concert Symphony Soup Link Up
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 8 HeartStrings®
SPECIAL EVENTS 9 Rhapsodie Quartet Recitals 9 Hunt Quartet Recitals 10 MSO at the Movies 10 Family Concert
MSO CONCERT ACTIVITIES 11 Open Rehearsals 11 Prelude Discussions 11 Student Rush Tickets 11 All Ears at the Symphony
CONCERTS AT-A-GLANCE AND DONORS 12 Education and Community Engagement Concerts 13 Education and Community Engagement Funders 14 Madison Symphony Orchestra Concerts 15 Organ Concerts 2
Inspiring musical journeys
madisonsymphony.org/education
3
Welcome Music Director Designate, Laura Jackson! “From the moment a teacher put a violin into my hands, my life was changed forever. I learned I could make music, could be alive in music. The Madison Symphony’s Education and Community Engagement Programs can be the first step to lifelong enrichment and learning for anyone.” – Laura Jackson
Join us for the 2026-2027 season!
The Madison Symphony Orchestra is committed to serving our community through our Education and Community Engagement Programs. Our mission is to enrich lives through transformative musical experiences that ignite a passion for music, to engage with our community “We feel so lucky that through meaningful partnerships the Madison Symphony that foster belonging, and to has so many fantastic inspire lifelong musical journeys school programs!” sparked by curiosity. We invite – Music Educator you to join us on a journey to enrich, engage, and inspire!
Award-Winning Education & Community Engagement Programs Madison Symphony Orchestra Education Programs bring the valuable experience of classical music to youth and adults in our community — both inside and outside of the concert hall. Our Community Engagement Programs connect with music lovers of all ages to offer the opportunity for more people to experience the joy and healing power of music.
EDUCATION PROGRAMS 4 Up Close & Musical® 4 Guest Artist Outreach
YOUNG ARTIST COMPETITIONS 5 Topitzes Family Fall Youth Concerto Competition 5 Bolz Young Artist Competition
YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERTS 6 6 7 7
Fall Youth Concerts Spring Young People’s Concert Symphony Soup Link Up
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 8 HeartStrings®
SPECIAL EVENTS 9 Rhapsodie Quartet Recitals 9 Hunt Quartet Recitals 10 MSO at the Movies 10 Family Concert
MSO CONCERT ACTIVITIES 11 Open Rehearsals 11 Prelude Discussions 11 Student Rush Tickets 11 All Ears at the Symphony
CONCERTS AT-A-GLANCE AND DONORS 12 Education and Community Engagement Concerts 13 Education and Community Engagement Funders 14 Madison Symphony Orchestra Concerts 15 Organ Concerts 2
Inspiring musical journeys
madisonsymphony.org/education
3
EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Young Artist Competitions Topitzes Family Fall Youth Concerto Competition Saturday, September 27, 2026
The Topitzes Family Fall Youth Concerto Competition is open to Wisconsin students in grades 3–8 who play strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, or piano. The winner of the competition performs with the MSO for an audience of their peers during the Fall Youth Concerts and receives a scholarship to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Summer Music Clinic.
Bolz Young Artist Competition Preliminary Round — Saturday, January 2, 2027 Semi-Final Round — Thursday, January 7, 2027 The Final Forte — Wednesday, March 3, 2027
The MSO’s award-winning Education Programs reach thousands of young people each year. From concerts to competitions to master classes and more, our partnerships with local schools build the foundation for students to have a life-long relationship with music.
“The musicians are all fun and engaging in how they worked with students and presented the lessons. This was an inspirational experience for our students!” – Up Close & Musicial Partner
Up Close & Musical® T he MSO’s nationally recognized Up Close & Musical program has been bringing the power and beauty of classical music into elementary school classrooms since 1999! As teaching artists, the Hunt Quartet visits each partner school four times during the school year to conduct exciting and interactive lessons that send students on a hunt for the concepts of expression, melody, rhythm, and form. Each visit begins with individual classroom instruction and concludes with a mini-concert by the string quartet for all participating classrooms. At the end of the school year all partner schools attend the culminating Symphony Soup Concert to experience the full orchestra! The curriculum is guided by academic standards for music and is designed for students in grades K–3 throughout Dane County. This program is offered at no charge to participating schools thanks to generous donor support.
The Bolz Young Artist Competition is a highly regarded statewide competition open to Wisconsin students in grades 9–12 who play strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, or piano. Four finalists are selected through two intensive rounds of competition to perform with the MSO in Overture Hall in the third round, which is broadcast live as “Wisconsin Young Artists Compete: The Final Forte” in partnership with PBS Wisconsin and Wisconsin Public Radio. All four finalists receive scholarships. The second-place winner receives the Steenbock Youth Music Award. The first-place winner of the competition receives the Marian Bolz Prize for Distinguished Musical Achievement and performs with the MSO for an audience of their peers during the Spring “The moment I walked onstage, I Young People’s Concert.
knew that this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You are providing students like me with the opportunity to pursue something we are deeply passionate about, and that means more to me than I am able to express in words.”
“The Final Forte gives musicians like me a way to see what the life of a professional musician is like.” – André Peck, Bolz Young Artist Competition Winner
– Lorenz Fradkin-Annen, Bolz Young Artist Competition Finalist
Guest Artist Outreach An encounter with a professional musician can be a turning point in the life of a young musician. The MSO is proud to bring world-class musicians and conductors into schools and arts organizations to work with students of all ages. Conversations with the artist, master classes, clinics, and workshops have connected many guest artists with young musicians from elementary to university levels. These master classes are offered to participating community partners and are open to the public. 4
Inspiring musical journeys
madisonsymphony.org/education
5
EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Young Artist Competitions Topitzes Family Fall Youth Concerto Competition Saturday, September 27, 2026
The Topitzes Family Fall Youth Concerto Competition is open to Wisconsin students in grades 3–8 who play strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, or piano. The winner of the competition performs with the MSO for an audience of their peers during the Fall Youth Concerts and receives a scholarship to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Summer Music Clinic.
Bolz Young Artist Competition Preliminary Round — Saturday, January 2, 2027 Semi-Final Round — Thursday, January 7, 2027 The Final Forte — Wednesday, March 3, 2027
The MSO’s award-winning Education Programs reach thousands of young people each year. From concerts to competitions to master classes and more, our partnerships with local schools build the foundation for students to have a life-long relationship with music.
“The musicians are all fun and engaging in how they worked with students and presented the lessons. This was an inspirational experience for our students!” – Up Close & Musicial Partner
Up Close & Musical® T he MSO’s nationally recognized Up Close & Musical program has been bringing the power and beauty of classical music into elementary school classrooms since 1999! As teaching artists, the Hunt Quartet visits each partner school four times during the school year to conduct exciting and interactive lessons that send students on a hunt for the concepts of expression, melody, rhythm, and form. Each visit begins with individual classroom instruction and concludes with a mini-concert by the string quartet for all participating classrooms. At the end of the school year all partner schools attend the culminating Symphony Soup Concert to experience the full orchestra! The curriculum is guided by academic standards for music and is designed for students in grades K–3 throughout Dane County. This program is offered at no charge to participating schools thanks to generous donor support.
The Bolz Young Artist Competition is a highly regarded statewide competition open to Wisconsin students in grades 9–12 who play strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, or piano. Four finalists are selected through two intensive rounds of competition to perform with the MSO in Overture Hall in the third round, which is broadcast live as “Wisconsin Young Artists Compete: The Final Forte” in partnership with PBS Wisconsin and Wisconsin Public Radio. All four finalists receive scholarships. The second-place winner receives the Steenbock Youth Music Award. The first-place winner of the competition receives the Marian Bolz Prize for Distinguished Musical Achievement and performs with the MSO for an audience of their peers during the Spring “The moment I walked onstage, I Young People’s Concert.
knew that this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You are providing students like me with the opportunity to pursue something we are deeply passionate about, and that means more to me than I am able to express in words.”
“The Final Forte gives musicians like me a way to see what the life of a professional musician is like.” – André Peck, Bolz Young Artist Competition Winner
– Lorenz Fradkin-Annen, Bolz Young Artist Competition Finalist
Guest Artist Outreach An encounter with a professional musician can be a turning point in the life of a young musician. The MSO is proud to bring world-class musicians and conductors into schools and arts organizations to work with students of all ages. Conversations with the artist, master classes, clinics, and workshops have connected many guest artists with young musicians from elementary to university levels. These master classes are offered to participating community partners and are open to the public. 4
Inspiring musical journeys
madisonsymphony.org/education
5
“An absolutely top-notch experience for the kids!” – Music Educator
Young People’s Concerts Fall Youth Concerts Tuesday, November 17, 2026 11:15 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Run time: 55 minutes Overture Hall, Overture Center for the Arts
“I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect as a musician as well as an educator.” – Music Educator
The Fall Youth Concerts are designed to introduce students in grades 4-8 to classical music and the full symphony orchestra. These themed, multidimensional performances include visual images, conductor insights into the music, and an inspiring performance by the winner of the MSO’s annual Topitzes Family Fall Youth Concerto Competition. Our Docent Program allows schools in Dane County to request visits by MSO musicians to prepare students for the concert experience. This program introduces the music and composers in fun and engaging ways and is offered at no additional charge to schools registered for the concert.
Spring Young People’s Concert Thursday, March 4, 2027 10:00 a.m. Run time: 70 minutes Overture Hall, Overture Center for the Arts
“This is an annual trip that the kids look forward to every year!” – Music Educator
The Spring Young People’s Concert creates memorable musical experiences for students in grades 6–12. The corresponding Spring Young People’s Concert Curriculum Guide provided to teachers encourages students to think more deeply about the musical selections, creating a richer concert experience for them. The Spring Young People’s Concert is designed to model a typical orchestral concert experience but includes learning supplements such as a visual component and an inspiring performance by the winner of the MSO’s annual Bolz Young Artist Competition.
Symphony Soup
“Link Up has become one of the most meaningful and impactful music experiences for my students. Through this program, students are not simply learning about music—they are actively making music, developing new skills, building confidence, and discovering the joy that comes from being part of something larger than themselves.”
Tuesday, May 18, 2027 – Music Educator 10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Run time: 40 minutes Capitol Theater, Overture Center for the Arts
Symphony Soup is the culminating concert event for the Up Close & Musical® in-school residency program and is open to all elementary schools. In addition to solidifying the concepts taught by the Hunt Quartet through the Up Close & Musical curriculum, these concerts are designed to get students in grades K–3 excited about classical music and the symphony orchestra. Short excerpts are selected from orchestral favorites.
Link Up Thursday, May 20, 2027 10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Run time: 55 minutes Capitol Theater, Overture Center for the Arts In partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute, the MSO is thrilled to present the Link Up program, designed for students in grades 3–5. “The Orchestra Sings” Link Up curriculum explores how composers create great melodies. Through this highly participatory program, students learn to sing and play the recorder in their school classrooms and prepare to perform with the orchestra from their seats at the culminating concert in May. All curriculum materials are free and professional development is provided. 6
Inspiring musical journeys
madisonsymphony.org/education
7
“An absolutely top-notch experience for the kids!” – Music Educator
Young People’s Concerts Fall Youth Concerts Tuesday, November 17, 2026 11:15 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Run time: 55 minutes Overture Hall, Overture Center for the Arts
“I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect as a musician as well as an educator.” – Music Educator
The Fall Youth Concerts are designed to introduce students in grades 4-8 to classical music and the full symphony orchestra. These themed, multidimensional performances include visual images, conductor insights into the music, and an inspiring performance by the winner of the MSO’s annual Topitzes Family Fall Youth Concerto Competition. Our Docent Program allows schools in Dane County to request visits by MSO musicians to prepare students for the concert experience. This program introduces the music and composers in fun and engaging ways and is offered at no additional charge to schools registered for the concert.
Spring Young People’s Concert Thursday, March 4, 2027 10:00 a.m. Run time: 70 minutes Overture Hall, Overture Center for the Arts
“This is an annual trip that the kids look forward to every year!” – Music Educator
The Spring Young People’s Concert creates memorable musical experiences for students in grades 6–12. The corresponding Spring Young People’s Concert Curriculum Guide provided to teachers encourages students to think more deeply about the musical selections, creating a richer concert experience for them. The Spring Young People’s Concert is designed to model a typical orchestral concert experience but includes learning supplements such as a visual component and an inspiring performance by the winner of the MSO’s annual Bolz Young Artist Competition.
Symphony Soup
“Link Up has become one of the most meaningful and impactful music experiences for my students. Through this program, students are not simply learning about music—they are actively making music, developing new skills, building confidence, and discovering the joy that comes from being part of something larger than themselves.”
Tuesday, May 18, 2027 – Music Educator 10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Run time: 40 minutes Capitol Theater, Overture Center for the Arts
Symphony Soup is the culminating concert event for the Up Close & Musical® in-school residency program and is open to all elementary schools. In addition to solidifying the concepts taught by the Hunt Quartet through the Up Close & Musical curriculum, these concerts are designed to get students in grades K–3 excited about classical music and the symphony orchestra. Short excerpts are selected from orchestral favorites.
Link Up Thursday, May 20, 2027 10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Run time: 55 minutes Capitol Theater, Overture Center for the Arts In partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute, the MSO is thrilled to present the Link Up program, designed for students in grades 3–5. “The Orchestra Sings” Link Up curriculum explores how composers create great melodies. Through this highly participatory program, students learn to sing and play the recorder in their school classrooms and prepare to perform with the orchestra from their seats at the culminating concert in May. All curriculum materials are free and professional development is provided. 6
Inspiring musical journeys
madisonsymphony.org/education
7
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Special Events Rhapsodie Quartet Recitals The Rhapsodie Quartet includes MSO Co-Concertmaster Suzanne Beia, violinist Laura Burns, violist Hanna Pederson, and Principal Cellist Karl Lavine. The quartet makes monthly visits to HeartStrings community partners, bringing a full season of activities to residents and caregivers. They also perform recitals that are free and open to the public.
“HeartStrings partnered with us this season and we LOVED them so much!” – Heartstrings® Partner
We are proud to bring world-renowned musicians and conductors into the community to connect with music lovers of all ages and offer the opportunity for more people to experience the joy and healing power of music.
Hunt Quartet Recitals The Hunt Quartet is the resident string quartet of the MSO’s nationally recognized Up Close & Musical® program, designed to bring the power and beauty of classical music into elementary school classrooms throughout Dane County. The quartet, consisting of violinists Paran Amirinazari and Hillary Hempel, violist Jennifer Paulson, and cellist Trace Johnson, also performs recitals that are free and open to the public.
HeartStrings® The MSO’s internationally recognized HeartStrings program enhances the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through participatory, music therapy-informed sessions led by the Rhapsodie Quartet. This transformative program reaches beyond the concert hall to bring live, interactive presentations into healthcare and residential facilities and schools. The quartet makes monthly visits to our community partners, providing sessions that demonstrate the powerful impact of music on health and wellness. This program is offered free of charge to participating organizations throughout Dane County thanks to generous donor support. HeartStrings has been recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts, the League of American Orchestras/MetLife Foundation, Johnson & Johnson/ Society for the Arts in Healthcare, Central Wisconsin Center and the Madison Area Rehabilitation Centers as a model community program.
“The resident and his wife used to attend the symphony together and are no longer able to. Getting to see them holding hands and smiling brightly almost brings a tear to my eyes.” – Healthcare Specialist 8
Inspiring musical journeys
madisonsymphony.org/education
9
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Special Events Rhapsodie Quartet Recitals The Rhapsodie Quartet includes MSO Co-Concertmaster Suzanne Beia, violinist Laura Burns, violist Hanna Pederson, and Principal Cellist Karl Lavine. The quartet makes monthly visits to HeartStrings community partners, bringing a full season of activities to residents and caregivers. They also perform recitals that are free and open to the public.
“HeartStrings partnered with us this season and we LOVED them so much!” – Heartstrings® Partner
We are proud to bring world-renowned musicians and conductors into the community to connect with music lovers of all ages and offer the opportunity for more people to experience the joy and healing power of music.
Hunt Quartet Recitals The Hunt Quartet is the resident string quartet of the MSO’s nationally recognized Up Close & Musical® program, designed to bring the power and beauty of classical music into elementary school classrooms throughout Dane County. The quartet, consisting of violinists Paran Amirinazari and Hillary Hempel, violist Jennifer Paulson, and cellist Trace Johnson, also performs recitals that are free and open to the public.
HeartStrings® The MSO’s internationally recognized HeartStrings program enhances the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through participatory, music therapy-informed sessions led by the Rhapsodie Quartet. This transformative program reaches beyond the concert hall to bring live, interactive presentations into healthcare and residential facilities and schools. The quartet makes monthly visits to our community partners, providing sessions that demonstrate the powerful impact of music on health and wellness. This program is offered free of charge to participating organizations throughout Dane County thanks to generous donor support. HeartStrings has been recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts, the League of American Orchestras/MetLife Foundation, Johnson & Johnson/ Society for the Arts in Healthcare, Central Wisconsin Center and the Madison Area Rehabilitation Centers as a model community program.
“The resident and his wife used to attend the symphony together and are no longer able to. Getting to see them holding hands and smiling brightly almost brings a tear to my eyes.” – Healthcare Specialist 8
Inspiring musical journeys
madisonsymphony.org/education
9
“Loved it! The experience of seeing the movie and seeing and hearing the symphony onstage at the same time was wonderful!” – Concert Attendee
MSO Concert Activities FILM LIVE IN CONCERT
MSO at the Movies presents screenings of complete films while the Madison Symphony Orchestra performs the musical score live. Groups seating is available.
Sunday, September 20, 2026 2:30 p.m.
Open Rehearsals Open Rehearsals are a wonderful free opportunity for music lovers of all ages to observe the preparation required for a symphony orchestra concert. Reservations are limited and can be made starting one month before each Open Rehearsal.
FILM LIVE IN CONCERT
Prelude Discussions
Saturday, May 1, 2027 7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 2, 2027 2:30 p.m.
Prelude Discussions are open to all ticket holders and provide insights into the concert repertoire and composers. These pre-concert talks take place in Overture Hall one hour before each subscription concert performance except for A Madison Symphony Christmas. Learn more at madisonsymphony.org/prelude
Student Rush Tickets
“This was my child’s first exposure to live symphony music and I love how this performance was geared for kids and not as formal.” – Family Concert Attendee
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Inspiring musical journeys
Family Concert The Family Concert includes pre-concert activities and musical selections that will thrill audiences of all ages! Saturday, June 5, 2027 Capitol Theater, Overture Center for the Arts
Student Rush Tickets are available to students from age 6 through the university level to experience any MSO performance in Overture Hall for just $15. University students will need a valid student ID, but younger students may simply claim student status at the Overture Center Box Office beginning on the Wednesday before each concert weekend, up until each performance. Students may purchase up to two tickets at these prices and will receive the best seats available at the time of purchase. Discounts cannot be combined. $10 Student Rush tickets are available for Organ performances on the day of each show. Details at madisonsymphony.org/rush
All Ears at the Symphony
All Ears at the Symphony is the Madison Symphony Orchestra’s outreach and ticketing program. Community groups can participate in All Ears at the Symphony through the Overture Center’s Community Ticket Program or through All Ears Before the Symphony, an exclusive pre-concert experience featuring an MSO Musician.
madisonsymphony.org/education
11
“Loved it! The experience of seeing the movie and seeing and hearing the symphony onstage at the same time was wonderful!” – Concert Attendee
MSO Concert Activities FILM LIVE IN CONCERT
MSO at the Movies presents screenings of complete films while the Madison Symphony Orchestra performs the musical score live. Groups seating is available.
Sunday, September 20, 2026 2:30 p.m.
Open Rehearsals Open Rehearsals are a wonderful free opportunity for music lovers of all ages to observe the preparation required for a symphony orchestra concert. Reservations are limited and can be made starting one month before each Open Rehearsal.
FILM LIVE IN CONCERT
Prelude Discussions
Saturday, May 1, 2027 7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 2, 2027 2:30 p.m.
Prelude Discussions are open to all ticket holders and provide insights into the concert repertoire and composers. These pre-concert talks take place in Overture Hall one hour before each subscription concert performance except for A Madison Symphony Christmas. Learn more at madisonsymphony.org/prelude
Student Rush Tickets
“This was my child’s first exposure to live symphony music and I love how this performance was geared for kids and not as formal.” – Family Concert Attendee
10
Inspiring musical journeys
Family Concert The Family Concert includes pre-concert activities and musical selections that will thrill audiences of all ages! Saturday, June 5, 2027 Capitol Theater, Overture Center for the Arts
Student Rush Tickets are available to students from age 6 through the university level to experience any MSO performance in Overture Hall for just $15. University students will need a valid student ID, but younger students may simply claim student status at the Overture Center Box Office beginning on the Wednesday before each concert weekend, up until each performance. Students may purchase up to two tickets at these prices and will receive the best seats available at the time of purchase. Discounts cannot be combined. $10 Student Rush tickets are available for Organ performances on the day of each show. Details at madisonsymphony.org/rush
All Ears at the Symphony
All Ears at the Symphony is the Madison Symphony Orchestra’s outreach and ticketing program. Community groups can participate in All Ears at the Symphony through the Overture Center’s Community Ticket Program or through All Ears Before the Symphony, an exclusive pre-concert experience featuring an MSO Musician.
madisonsymphony.org/education
11
EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CONCERTS All concerts are performed at the Overture Center for the Arts.
Tuesday, November 17, 2026 11:15 a.m., 1:00 p.m.
Fall Youth Concerts Kyle Knox, Conductor
A cross-curricular youth concert designed for students in grades 4-8
Wednesday, March 3, 2027 7:00 p.m.
The Final Forte Laura Jackson, Conductor
A free performance featuring four talented high school musicians as they compete in the final round of the Bolz Young Artist Competition with results announced live. Group seating is available
Thursday, March 4, 2027 10:00 a.m.
Spring Young People’s Concert Kyle Knox, Conductor
An educational concert with accompanying curriculum designed for students in grades 6-12
Tuesday, May 18, 2027 10:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m.
Symphony Soup Concert Kyle Knox, Conductor
A concert designed for students in grades K-3 and the culminating concert of our Up Close & Musical® program
Thursday, May 20, 2027 10:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m.
Link Up Concert Randal Swiggum, Conductor
The culminating concert of a yearlong partnership program that invites students in grades 3-5 to sing and play recorder with the orchestra
Tickets for MSO education concerts are $5 per student. Chaperones are free for groups of 10 or more. Subsidized tickets available for qualifying schools, calculated based on Free and Reduced Lunch rates. Qualifying Madison Metropolitan School District schools may also be eligible for bus subsidies. No physical tickets will be distributed for youth concerts. Photos: cover (Symphony Soup/Link Up), p2 (Link Up), p3 (Link Up), p7 (Link Up/Symphony Soup), p10 (Star Wars), p15 (Symphony Soup), back cover (Symphony Soup): Chris Fiol; cover (Up Close & Musical/HeartStrings), p4 (Up Close & Musical), p8 (HeartStrings): Katelyn Hanvey; p10 (Family Concert): Love in Every Moment Photography; p3 (Rhapsodie Quartet Recital), p11 (All Ears): Emma Potter; cover (Final Forte/Guest Artist), p4 (Fall Youth Concerts/Guest Artist), p5 (Fall Youth/Final Forte), p6 (Spring Young People’s Concert), p9 (Hunt Quartet Recital), p10 (Toy Story), p11 (Open Rehearsal), p12 (Spring Young People’s Concert), back cover (Fall Youth Concerts): Peter Rodgers; p9 (Rhapsodie Quartet): Katrin Talbot.
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Inspiring musical journeys
2025-2027 Education & Community Engagement Funders Diane Ballweg
William C. Houlihan and Mary S. Gerbig
UW Health & UnityPoint Health Insurance
Barbara and Norman Berven
Carl M. Hudig
Lynn Van Campen
Dr. Annette Beyer-Mears, in memory of Howard & Nelle Weiss
Dr. Stanley and Shirley Inhorn
Veridian Homes Foundation
Irving and Dorothy Levy Family Foundation, Inc.
Marc Vitale and Darcy Kind
The children of Marian & Jack Bolz and Anne & Bob Bolz, in memory of their parents and grandparents, Eugenie & Adolph Bolz
J.H. Findorff & Son Inc.
William J. and Joyce F. Wartmann Fund
The John and Barbara DeMain Fund for Education and Community Engagement
Carola Winkle
Patricia Brady and Robert Smith Kirk Brown and Lori DiPrete Brown
Kohls & Mackie, LLC
Wisconsin Arts Board, with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts
The Capital Times Kids Fund
Madison Arts Commission, with additional funds from the Wisconsin Arts Board
Alexis M. Carreon
Madison Community Foundation
Woodman’s Food Markets
James Dahlberg and Elsebet Lund
Madison Symphony Orchestra League
Jim and Jessica Yehle
Dane County Arts, with additional funds from the Endres Mfg. Company Foundation, The Evjue Foundation, Inc., charitable arm of The Capital Times, the W. Jerome Frautschi Foundation, and the Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation
Julie and Larry Midtbo
Three Anonymous Friends
The Eugenie Mayer Bolz Family Foundation
Elizabeth Olson, in memory of Modesta Olson
The Evjue Foundation, Inc., the charitable arm of The Capital Times
David and Kato Perlman
Exact Sciences
Cyrena and Lee Pondrom
Festival Foods
Fred and Nancy Risser
Focus Fund for the Arts
Sonya Beutler Sauer, in memory of Robert Sauer
W. Jerome Frautschi
Partner Spotlight
Sentry Insurance Foundation
Friends of PBS Wisconsin
Jacqui Shanda
Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin
John and Twila Sheskey Charitable Fund
Special thanks to the Madison Symphony Orchestra League, whose fundraising events and volunteer efforts support our Education and Community Engagement programs annually. Learn more at madisonsymphony.org/msol
Larry Hands and Karen Kendrick-Hands Susan S. Harris Sharol Hayner Heid Music and Heid Music Family Charitable Fund Herb Kohl Charities
National Endowment for the Arts Nimick Forbesway Foundation James M. O’Brien, Ph.D.
PBS Wisconsin’s Focus Fund for the Arts
John Sims Stafford Rosenbaum LLP
Wisconsin Solar Design, Inc.
This list includes donors who contributed gifts of $500 or more in support of Madison Symphony Orchestra’s 2025-2026 Education and Community Engagement Programs, as well as donors who have committed gifts to support the 2026-2027 programs at the time of print. Also included are PBS Wisconsin donors whose gifts supported The Final Forte broadcast in March 2026.
The Stanley & Shirley Inhorn Fund Nick and Judith Topitzes Trust Point U.S. Bank Foundation
madisonsymphony.org/education
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EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CONCERTS All concerts are performed at the Overture Center for the Arts.
Tuesday, November 17, 2026 11:15 a.m., 1:00 p.m.
Fall Youth Concerts Kyle Knox, Conductor
A cross-curricular youth concert designed for students in grades 4-8
Wednesday, March 3, 2027 7:00 p.m.
The Final Forte Laura Jackson, Conductor
A free performance featuring four talented high school musicians as they compete in the final round of the Bolz Young Artist Competition with results announced live. Group seating is available
Thursday, March 4, 2027 10:00 a.m.
Spring Young People’s Concert Kyle Knox, Conductor
An educational concert with accompanying curriculum designed for students in grades 6-12
Tuesday, May 18, 2027 10:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m.
Symphony Soup Concert Kyle Knox, Conductor
A concert designed for students in grades K-3 and the culminating concert of our Up Close & Musical® program
Thursday, May 20, 2027 10:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m.
Link Up Concert Randal Swiggum, Conductor
The culminating concert of a yearlong partnership program that invites students in grades 3-5 to sing and play recorder with the orchestra
Tickets for MSO education concerts are $5 per student. Chaperones are free for groups of 10 or more. Subsidized tickets available for qualifying schools, calculated based on Free and Reduced Lunch rates. Qualifying Madison Metropolitan School District schools may also be eligible for bus subsidies. No physical tickets will be distributed for youth concerts. Photos: cover (Symphony Soup/Link Up), p2 (Link Up), p3 (Link Up), p7 (Link Up/Symphony Soup), p10 (Star Wars), p15 (Symphony Soup), back cover (Symphony Soup): Chris Fiol; cover (Up Close & Musical/HeartStrings), p4 (Up Close & Musical), p8 (HeartStrings): Katelyn Hanvey; p10 (Family Concert): Love in Every Moment Photography; p3 (Rhapsodie Quartet Recital), p11 (All Ears): Emma Potter; cover (Final Forte/Guest Artist), p4 (Fall Youth Concerts/Guest Artist), p5 (Fall Youth/Final Forte), p6 (Spring Young People’s Concert), p9 (Hunt Quartet Recital), p10 (Toy Story), p11 (Open Rehearsal), p12 (Spring Young People’s Concert), back cover (Fall Youth Concerts): Peter Rodgers; p9 (Rhapsodie Quartet): Katrin Talbot.
12
Inspiring musical journeys
2025-2027 Education & Community Engagement Funders Diane Ballweg
William C. Houlihan and Mary S. Gerbig
UW Health & UnityPoint Health Insurance
Barbara and Norman Berven
Carl M. Hudig
Lynn Van Campen
Dr. Annette Beyer-Mears, in memory of Howard & Nelle Weiss
Dr. Stanley and Shirley Inhorn
Veridian Homes Foundation
Irving and Dorothy Levy Family Foundation, Inc.
Marc Vitale and Darcy Kind
The children of Marian & Jack Bolz and Anne & Bob Bolz, in memory of their parents and grandparents, Eugenie & Adolph Bolz
J.H. Findorff & Son Inc.
William J. and Joyce F. Wartmann Fund
The John and Barbara DeMain Fund for Education and Community Engagement
Carola Winkle
Patricia Brady and Robert Smith Kirk Brown and Lori DiPrete Brown
Kohls & Mackie, LLC
Wisconsin Arts Board, with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts
The Capital Times Kids Fund
Madison Arts Commission, with additional funds from the Wisconsin Arts Board
Alexis M. Carreon
Madison Community Foundation
Woodman’s Food Markets
James Dahlberg and Elsebet Lund
Madison Symphony Orchestra League
Jim and Jessica Yehle
Dane County Arts, with additional funds from the Endres Mfg. Company Foundation, The Evjue Foundation, Inc., charitable arm of The Capital Times, the W. Jerome Frautschi Foundation, and the Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation
Julie and Larry Midtbo
Three Anonymous Friends
The Eugenie Mayer Bolz Family Foundation
Elizabeth Olson, in memory of Modesta Olson
The Evjue Foundation, Inc., the charitable arm of The Capital Times
David and Kato Perlman
Exact Sciences
Cyrena and Lee Pondrom
Festival Foods
Fred and Nancy Risser
Focus Fund for the Arts
Sonya Beutler Sauer, in memory of Robert Sauer
W. Jerome Frautschi
Partner Spotlight
Sentry Insurance Foundation
Friends of PBS Wisconsin
Jacqui Shanda
Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin
John and Twila Sheskey Charitable Fund
Special thanks to the Madison Symphony Orchestra League, whose fundraising events and volunteer efforts support our Education and Community Engagement programs annually. Learn more at madisonsymphony.org/msol
Larry Hands and Karen Kendrick-Hands Susan S. Harris Sharol Hayner Heid Music and Heid Music Family Charitable Fund Herb Kohl Charities
National Endowment for the Arts Nimick Forbesway Foundation James M. O’Brien, Ph.D.
PBS Wisconsin’s Focus Fund for the Arts
John Sims Stafford Rosenbaum LLP
Wisconsin Solar Design, Inc.
This list includes donors who contributed gifts of $500 or more in support of Madison Symphony Orchestra’s 2025-2026 Education and Community Engagement Programs, as well as donors who have committed gifts to support the 2026-2027 programs at the time of print. Also included are PBS Wisconsin donors whose gifts supported The Final Forte broadcast in March 2026.
The Stanley & Shirley Inhorn Fund Nick and Judith Topitzes Trust Point U.S. Bank Foundation
madisonsymphony.org/education
13
CONCERTS & EVENTS September 18, 2026
January 15-17, 2027 STERLING ELLIOTT RETURNS
ONE PERFORMANCE ONLY
OPENING NIGHT WITH JOSHUA BELL
September 20, 2026
John DeMain, Music Director Emeritus Inon Barnatan, Piano
FILM LIVE IN CONCERT © Disney
October 16-18, 2026 BEETHOVEN’S PASTORAL SYMPHONY
March 12-14, 2027 GARRICK OHLSSON PLAYS CHOPIN John DeMain, Music Director Emeritus Garrick Ohlsson, Piano
Kyle Knox, Resident Conductor Naha Greenholtz, Violin
November 6-8, 2026 LAURA JACKSON CONDUCTS TCHAIKOVSKY
April 9-11, 2027 TCHAIKOVSKY VIOLIN CONCERTO
John DeMain, Music Director Emeritus Blake Pouliot, Violin Karen Chia-ling Ho, Soprano Rehanna Thelwell, Mezzo-Soprano Kyle Ketelsen, Bass-Baritone Madison Symphony Chorus, Beverly Taylor, Director Madison Youth Choirs, Michael Ross, Artistic Director
Laura Jackson, Music Director Designate Joyce Yang, Piano
December 4-6, 2026
STAR WARS THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK
A MADISON SYMPHONY CHRISTMAS
madisonsymphony.org/26-27 14
Inspiring musical journeys
EDUCATION25. Single tickets are sold through Overture Center for the Arts. The 25% discount is available in all areas of the hall except E, where the tickets are $15. This code cannot be used for MSO at the Movies.
September 27, 2026 GREG ZELEK ALL BACH Greg Zelek, Organ
November 19, 2026 LUCRECIA AND THE CELIA CRUZ ALL-STARS CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF CELIA CRUZ WITH GREG ZELEK
Greg Zelek, Organ Lucrecia, Guest Artist Celia Cruz All-Stars, Guest Artists
February 9, 2027 RAÚL PRIETO RAMÍREZ Raúl Prieto Ramírez, Guest Organist
May 1-2, 2027
CELEBRATE THE SEASON
ALL SYMPHONY CONCERTS ARE HELD IN OVERTURE HALL
For 25% off symphony concert tickets, use code
February 19-21, 2027 RACHMANINOFF & BEETHOVEN
THE LION KING
John DeMain, Music Director Emeritus Renée Richardson, Soprano Demetrious Sampson, Jr., Tenor Madison Symphony Chorus, Beverly Taylor, Director Mt. Zion Gospel Choir, Tamera & Leotha Stanley, Directors Madison Youth Choirs, Michael Ross, Artistic Director
We appreciate our music educators!
Carl St. Clair, Conductor Sterling Elliott, Cello
John DeMain, Music Director Emeritus Joshua Bell, Violin
Kyle Knox, Resident Conductor Original 1994 animated film Music by ELTON JOHN Lyrics by TIM RICE Score by HANS ZIMMER (OSCAR WINNER)
MSO OVERTURE CONCERT ORGAN PERFORMANCES
FILM LIVE IN CONCERT © & ™ Lucasfilm Ltd.
Kyle Knox, Resident Conductor Music by JOHN WILLIAMS
May 7-9, 2027 SEASON FINALE
LAURA JACKSON CONDUCTS BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH! PLUS TIME FOR THREE Laura Jackson, Music Director Designate Time For Three, Guest Artists
Group Ticket Pricing Groups of 10 or more receive a 25% discount for MSO concerts (excluding MSO at the Movies) and a 10% discount for Organ performances! To place your order, call the MSO Office at (608) 257-3734 and ask for our Audience Experience Manager, Isabella Clinton. For more information, please visit: madisonsymphony.org/group
May 11, 2027 GREG ZELEK WITH THE
MADISON YOUTH CHOIRS Greg Zelek, Organ Madison Youth Choirs, Michael Ross, Artistic Director
Katelyn is looking for a new photo.
ALL ORGAN CONCERTS ARE HELD IN OVERTURE HALL madisonsymphony.org/26-27organ madisonsymphony.org/education
15
CONCERTS & EVENTS September 18, 2026
January 15-17, 2027 STERLING ELLIOTT RETURNS
ONE PERFORMANCE ONLY
OPENING NIGHT WITH JOSHUA BELL
September 20, 2026
John DeMain, Music Director Emeritus Inon Barnatan, Piano
FILM LIVE IN CONCERT © Disney
October 16-18, 2026 BEETHOVEN’S PASTORAL SYMPHONY
March 12-14, 2027 GARRICK OHLSSON PLAYS CHOPIN John DeMain, Music Director Emeritus Garrick Ohlsson, Piano
Kyle Knox, Resident Conductor Naha Greenholtz, Violin
November 6-8, 2026 LAURA JACKSON CONDUCTS TCHAIKOVSKY
April 9-11, 2027 TCHAIKOVSKY VIOLIN CONCERTO
John DeMain, Music Director Emeritus Blake Pouliot, Violin Karen Chia-ling Ho, Soprano Rehanna Thelwell, Mezzo-Soprano Kyle Ketelsen, Bass-Baritone Madison Symphony Chorus, Beverly Taylor, Director Madison Youth Choirs, Michael Ross, Artistic Director
Laura Jackson, Music Director Designate Joyce Yang, Piano
December 4-6, 2026
STAR WARS THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK
A MADISON SYMPHONY CHRISTMAS
madisonsymphony.org/26-27 14
Inspiring musical journeys
EDUCATION25. Single tickets are sold through Overture Center for the Arts. The 25% discount is available in all areas of the hall except E, where the tickets are $15. This code cannot be used for MSO at the Movies.
September 27, 2026 GREG ZELEK ALL BACH Greg Zelek, Organ
November 19, 2026 LUCRECIA AND THE CELIA CRUZ ALL-STARS CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF CELIA CRUZ WITH GREG ZELEK
Greg Zelek, Organ Lucrecia, Guest Artist Celia Cruz All-Stars, Guest Artists
February 9, 2027 RAÚL PRIETO RAMÍREZ Raúl Prieto Ramírez, Guest Organist
May 1-2, 2027
CELEBRATE THE SEASON
ALL SYMPHONY CONCERTS ARE HELD IN OVERTURE HALL
For 25% off symphony concert tickets, use code
February 19-21, 2027 RACHMANINOFF & BEETHOVEN
THE LION KING
John DeMain, Music Director Emeritus Renée Richardson, Soprano Demetrious Sampson, Jr., Tenor Madison Symphony Chorus, Beverly Taylor, Director Mt. Zion Gospel Choir, Tamera & Leotha Stanley, Directors Madison Youth Choirs, Michael Ross, Artistic Director
We appreciate our music educators!
Carl St. Clair, Conductor Sterling Elliott, Cello
John DeMain, Music Director Emeritus Joshua Bell, Violin
Kyle Knox, Resident Conductor Original 1994 animated film Music by ELTON JOHN Lyrics by TIM RICE Score by HANS ZIMMER (OSCAR WINNER)
MSO OVERTURE CONCERT ORGAN PERFORMANCES
FILM LIVE IN CONCERT © & ™ Lucasfilm Ltd.
Kyle Knox, Resident Conductor Music by JOHN WILLIAMS
May 7-9, 2027 SEASON FINALE
LAURA JACKSON CONDUCTS BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH! PLUS TIME FOR THREE Laura Jackson, Music Director Designate Time For Three, Guest Artists
Group Ticket Pricing Groups of 10 or more receive a 25% discount for MSO concerts (excluding MSO at the Movies) and a 10% discount for Organ performances! To place your order, call the MSO Office at (608) 257-3734 and ask for our Audience Experience Manager, Isabella Clinton. For more information, please visit: madisonsymphony.org/group
May 11, 2027 GREG ZELEK WITH THE
MADISON YOUTH CHOIRS Greg Zelek, Organ Madison Youth Choirs, Michael Ross, Artistic Director
Katelyn is looking for a new photo.
ALL ORGAN CONCERTS ARE HELD IN OVERTURE HALL madisonsymphony.org/26-27organ madisonsymphony.org/education
15
LAURA JACKSON | MUSIC DIRECTOR DESIGNATE
222 W. Washington Ave. Suite 460 Madison, WI 53703
for more information
LAURA JACKSON | MUSIC DIRECTOR DESIGNATE
INSPIRING
musical journeys
EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 2026-2027
For more information please contact: Lisa Kjentvet Director of Education & Community Engagement lkjentvet@madisonsymphony.org (608) 260-8680 ext. 225 madisonsymphony.org/education
EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 2026-2027