The orchestras continue to grow, improve, and offer deeper and more meaningful musical opportunities. Be a part of the LYSO experience!
Upcoming auditions
Auditions for the fall semester have been completed.
Register for an audition today! It's easy - just click on the link below.
Learn more about auditions at our Auditions Page.
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Orchestra membership is based on musical ability as well as the orchestra's specific needs for instrumentation for the season. Young musicians from 5th grade through 12th grade who play an orchestral instrument may audition. With two orchestras to fill, there are many opportunities for talented musicians.
Instruments in the orchestras are: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba, and Percussion.
What to play at your audition
Solo: Select a Class A or Class B solo from the WSMA High School or Middle School list, OR select a piece of similar difficulty that is not on the list. This piece does not need to be memorized and must be played without accompaniment. It should last no more than 4 minutes - you may make cuts to reduce the length. See the Auditions Page for more information.
Scales: play scales from the WSMA High School and Middle School audition requirements. See the Auditions Page for more information.
Each orchestra has 9 rehearsals per semester.
- Fall semester begins in September and ends with a concert in mid-to-late November
- Spring semester beings in January and ends with a concert in mid-to-late March
Both orchestras rehearse Sunday afternoons at Lincoln Middle School in La Crosse. Rehearsals also take place occasionally in early fall, on Thursday evenings.
CONCERTS
Members perform in two main concerts: the Fall Concert, which takes place in mid-to-late November, and the Spring Concert, which takes place in mid-to-late March.
Both orchestras perform a number of pieces at each concert.
In addition, other performing opportunities arise regularly.
Membership Fees
View complete fees and payment options here
View financial assistance information here
LYSO offers financial assistance, payment options, and family discounts. If you are interested in joining, do not let membership fees hold you back. We will find a way to make it work.
Italiano Orchestra Membership fee is: $430 per year.
Philharmonic String Orchestra Membership fee is: $400 per year.
Fundraisers are held that can help offset the cost of a member’s Membership Fees. For example: sell a set amount of wreaths and get $50.00 (or more) off of your membership fee.
MEMBERSHIP FEES ARE NON REFUNDABLE