Playing Their Part
At the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, young people from across the region learn invaluable skills.
In 2024, the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center in Brookfield resonated with the sound of 1,000 young musicians performing in “Play Your Part,” the grand finale of the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra’s student-led fundraising campaign. This special concert marked the culmination of intensive fundraising efforts by MYSO students, demonstrating their commitment to making music education accessible to future generations.
Lauren Gooden, a 17-year-old double bass player who has spent a decade with MYSO, was among the performers. “I feel honored to help contribute to someone else’s progress, education and experience,” says Gooden. “I have had so many amazing opportunities I want others to experience. I truly do enjoy being able to help others continue to participate in this wonderful program.”
For MYSO’s chief executive officer Linda Edelstein, the event represents more than just the start of their fundraising season. “Play Your Part is really a day these students are seen and heard, and the power of that combination creates these moments of togetherness for the people who attend.”
The student-driven campaign and its culminating concert support MYSO’s financial aid program, which currently assists 40% of its
students. The funds also contribute to essential needs like instrument purchases, repairs and operational costs. This year’s fundraising efforts held special significance as some students also raised funds for an upcoming international tour, in which MYSO’s most advanced musicians will perform in Poland and the Czech Republic.
The campaign aligns with MYSO’s “I See You in Music” initiative, which recognizes and celebrates each student’s unique musical talents while fostering their development as community leaders. Through this initiative, MYSO demonstrates its commitment to nurturing the individual potential in every young musician who walks through its doors, helping them grow not just as performers, but as confident leaders who will shape the
future of our community.
The success of the student fundraising campaign and its celebratory concert exemplifies how MYSO’s impact extends beyond music education. It teaches students valuable lessons about community service, leadership and the importance of giving back – ensuring that future generations will have the same opportunities to grow through music. To learn more and support student financial aid, visit SeeYourselfAtMYSO.org ◆
Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra 325 W. Walnut St. 414-267-2950 myso.org