Education

Imagine Sentry Theater filled to the brim with 4th graders from all around Central Wisconsin. They are riveted as they hear a live performance of music from around the world. They are laughing, smiling, playing/singing along, and dancing! This happens each and every year and is all possible because of the life of an extraordinary music educator, Dorothy Vetter.

Every year, almost 1,500 4th graders from the counties of Marathon, Portage, Waupaca, Waushara, Wood & Shawano fill the Sentry Theater to experience the magic and wonder of the CWSO. They learn about the orchestra, about music, they play along on their recorders or sing, but most importantly … they hear amazing music and they LOVE IT! (So does the orchestra).

Learn more about the Dorothy Vetter Concerts

SAVE THE DATE – March 11, 2026 for all area elementary schools

The young musicians of the Central Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra grow through education, mentorship, and the shared joy of performance. Under the leadership of nurturing and experienced conductors, CWSYO students dive deep into exciting repertoire and play along side other talented musicians from the region.

We are a regional symphony orchestra program serving middle school and high school student musicians within Portage, Wood, Waushara, Shawano, Waupaca, Adams, Juneau, Marathon, Lincoln and Langlade Counties with a full Symphony Orchestra, Philharmonia, and extensive partnerships with nationally renowned faculty in the state-of-the-art facilities of the Noel Fine Arts Center on the UW-Stevens Point campus.

Learn more about CWYSO!

They have practiced for hours. They lead in their local school and youth orchestras, and dazzle in solo/ensemble competitions. They are committed to every facet of their studies. Here’s where we get to show them off! Every year, the most accomplished music students from the Central Wisconsin region are invited to compete for prize money and the opportunity to perform in an unforgettable weekend of music making of the highest level.

Learn more about this year’s competition.

Adults of all abilities enjoy the benefits of music through our Tutti – Music for All! program. These inclusive experiences foster creativity, connection, and lifelong learning through rhythm and song. 

We partner with Creative Community Living Services, Inc. in Stevens Point to provide interactive musical experiences to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.