Episodes

  • Violinist Sal Stein's Musical Journey Through the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO)
    Jan 28 2025

    For nearly 70 years, the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, or MYSO, has unlocked the transformative magic of music for generations of young artists.

    Whether you're a current student musician, a proud parent, or one of our visionary supporters, this podcast is for you.

    Together, we'll go behind the scenes to showcase the lifelong friendships forged and the incredible life lessons learned through MYSO.

    This episode features MYSO’s young violinist Sal Stein who poetically describes music as "another way to talk" that "surrounds you," revealing a deep connection to the violin he’s played since age five. This perspective, combined with a desire to carry on his mother's musical legacy, offers a touching glimpse into his artistic journey.

    Jump in to learn more about Sal’s inspiring journey from Singapore to the MYSO and let's honor the music within us all!

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    13 mins
  • Ms. Roz Shares Her Journey From MYSO Violist to the Conductor's Podium
    Dec 7 2024

    For nearly 70 years, the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, or MYSO, has unlocked the transformative magic of music for generations of young artists.

    Whether you're a current student musician, a proud parent, or one of our visionary supporters, this podcast is for you.

    Together, we'll go behind the scenes to showcase the lifelong friendships forged and the incredible life lessons learned through MYSO.

    This episode features MYSO’s one and only, Ms. Roz, a passionate music educator who bridges multiple worlds - from her early days as a MYSO student to her current roles as a middle school teacher, MYSO director, and MYSO mom - Ms. Roz demonstrates deep commitment to helping students grow through music while fostering meaningful connections beyond the notes.

    Jump in with us to explore her journey in a fun and lively conversation and let's honor the music within us all!

    To learn more about MYSO, visit us at MYSO.org.

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    18 mins
  • 40 Miles of Music: A High School Drummer's Dedication to MYSO
    Nov 15 2024

    For nearly 70 years, the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, or MYSO, has unlocked the transformative magic of music for generations of young artists.

    Whether you're a current student musician, a proud parent, or one of our visionary supporters, this podcast is for you.

    Together, we'll go behind the scenes to showcase the lifelong friendships forged and the incredible life lessons learned through MYSO.

    This episode features an interview with Nico, a senior percussionist who joined MYSO in his junior year of high school and drives 45 minutes from Kenosha to Milwaukee multiple times per week for rehearsals.

    Despite only starting music as a freshman, Nico has excelled in multiple ensembles, and he discusses how MYSO has helped him develop self-discipline, make like-minded friends, and grow as a person.

    Let's jump in and let's honor the music within us all!

    To learn more about MYSO, visit us at MYSO.org.

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    11 mins
  • MYSO's Lasting Impact on Life and Career, Beth Cleary's Journey as MYSO Musician and now MYSO Mom
    Oct 11 2024

    This episode of the MYSO podcast features Beth Cleary, a MYSO alum and now MYSO parent.

    Beth’s story illustrates how MYSO creates a lasting, positive impact across generations, develops crucial transferable life skills beyond musical pursuits, and explains how MYSO’s inclusive, supportive community helps families overcome barriers to ensure accessibility for as many interested student musicians as possible.

    • MYSO creates a lasting, positive impact across generations, enriching both young musicians and their families.
    • Participants in MYSO develop crucial transferable life skills that benefit them well beyond their musical pursuits.
    • MYSO fosters an inclusive, supportive community by working to overcome barriers and ensure accessibility for all interested students.

    If you like what you hear, be sure to follow the podcast and leave us a review.

    Now let's jump into this episode and honor the music within us all!

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    14 mins
  • Accidental Cellist: How MYSO Shaped Adela's Life and Musical Path
    Sep 16 2024

    In this episode, we dive into the inspiring musical journey of Adela, a talented young cellist and high school senior. Adela shares her experience with MYSO and how it has shaped her life and future aspirations.

    From her serendipitous introduction to the cello in second grade to her current plans of pursuing a degree in cello performance, Adela's story is a testament to the transformative power of music education and community support.

    She offers insights into the challenges and rewards of dedicating oneself to an instrument and the invaluable experiences gained through MYSO including:

    • Adela's unexpected start with the cello, choosing it without knowing what it was, and how this spontaneous decision led to a deep passion for the instrument.
    • The impact of MYSO on Adela's personal growth, providing her with leadership opportunities and a supportive community of fellow music enthusiasts.
    • Adela's journey from a curious beginner to an accomplished young musician preparing for conservatory auditions, illustrating the long-term effects of early music education.

    Adela's story serves as an inspiration for young musicians and a powerful example of how MYSO nurtures talent and shapes futures.

    To learn more about the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO), visit us at MYSO.org.

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    18 mins
  • Beyond the Summerfest Stage: MYSO's Steel Band's Greatest Success is Community
    Aug 9 2024

    In this episode, we go behind the scenes at Summerfest with MYSO's Steel Band to uncover the heartwarming stories that make this group truly special.

    Listen as students share how the band transformed their lives, building confidence and forging unlikely friendships.

    Meet "Rush," the unconventional director who celebrates mistakes and creates a family-like atmosphere.

    Through candid interviews, discover how striking steel pans has become more than just making music—it's about personal growth, acceptance, and finding community.

    From shy beginners to confident performers, these rising musicians reveal the life-changing power of MYSO.

    Prepare to be inspired by their journey!

    To learn more about the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO), visit us at MYSO.org.

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    10 mins
  • From MYSO to Berklee: Lucas LaBeau's Remarkable Musical Journey
    Jun 18 2024

    This episode features Lucas LaBeau, an 18-year-old recent graduate and talented young pianist who discovered his passion for music at a young age and has been inspiring audiences ever since.

    Through joining the MYSO Jazz Studies program and dedicating himself to his craft, he has become a celebrated musician known for his emotional improvisations and versatility across genres.

    Balancing school, a bustling music career, and the everyday challenges of growing up, Lucas shares his experiences and the important role music has played in his life.

    As he looks ahead to attending Berklee College of Music and the bright career that awaits him, Lucas reflects on his journey so far and offers wisdom on improvising in music and in life by being open to possibilities.

    To learn more about the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO), visit us at MYSO.org.

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    25 mins