Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra - CWSO

Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra - CWSO Enriching, engaging, and educating Central Wisconsin from the stage and beyond! In 1953, the Central State Symphony Orchestra became the Stevens Point Symphony.

CWSO History:
The present Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra began in 1947 when the Central State Symphony Orchestra grew out of the late Peter Michelsen's music classes at the then Central State Teacher's College (now University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point). The 50-member orchestra presented its first concert on April 4, 1948 at the auditorium in the Central State Teacher's College. In 1977, the

name was once again changed to the Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra and five subscription concerts were presented each season. It was then that performances were first held in the newly constructed Sentry Theater. The 689 seats in the theater were soon sold out and back-to-back performances were initiated with the 1980-81 season. The orchestra now boasts sixty-five professional members and continues to draw both players and audience members from the broader Central Wisconsin area.

08/26/2026

24 years of stunning solos and crafted reeds! 🎶 Meet Stacey Berk, CWSO’s Principal Oboist.

From 4th grade oboe spark to pickleball and woodworking off stage, get to know the person behind the instrument:

👉https://cwso.org/meet-the-musician/

Catch Stacey live at our next performance!
Tickets at cwso.org

08/26/2026

Music in Motion. Connecting Communities.

The Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra's 2026–2027 Concert Series, Transformations, is taking live orchestral music across the region! From Dvořák’s New World Symphony in Wisconsin Rapids to holiday favorites in Mosinee and Stevens Point, a cinematic tribute to John Williams in Wausau, and more, we’re bringing unforgettable performances directly to your neighborhood.

2026–2027 Season Highlights
October 10, 2026: A New World | Performing Arts Center of Wisconsin Rapids
December 12, 2026: The Sounds of the Season | Creske Center Auditorium, Mosinee
December 13, 2026: The Sounds of the Season | SPASH Auditorium, Stevens Point
February 13, 2027: A Tribute to John Williams | Grand Theater, Wausau
March 8, 2027: Dorothy Vetter Education Concerts | Woodlands Church, Plover
April 3, 2027: Simply Sinatra with Steve Lippia | Performing Arts Center of Wisconsin Rapids
April 10, 2027: Serenade to Spring | CREATE Portage County Great Hall, Stevens Point

Get your tickets today at cwso.org or call 715-345-7726!

08/19/2026

Embracing Change: Moving Beyond Sentry Theater to Connect Our Region
When we learned that Sentry Theater would be unavailable for the next few years, we turned a challenge into an exciting opportunity.

Join us on the journey for our 2026-2027 Concert Series, Transformations!

Get your tickets today:
cwso.org
715-345-7726

08/12/2026

Why "Transformations"?

Our 2026-2027 Concert Series is all about music in motion and connecting communities. As we perform across new venues throughout Central Wisconsin this season, we’re exploring how live orchestral music transforms us—as musicians, as listeners, and as a community.

From deep musical connections on stage to regional tour stops across our local neighborhoods, this season is designed to bring us closer together.

Tickets for the 2026-2027 Concert Series are available now!
Visit cwso.org or call 715-345-7726 to secure your spot.

What does music transform for you? Tell us in the comments!

They have practiced for hours. They lead in their local school and youth orchestras, and dazzle in solo/ensemble competi...
08/11/2026

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 in one or both of the CWSO or CWYSO competitions for prize money and the opportunity to perform with the CWSO or CWYSO.
Submit your application at: https://cwso.org/education/yacc/

08/09/2026

We are sad that the weather has interrupted our plans for great music and delicious brunch at Lonely Oak Farm. 😢

Stay tuned for a rescheduled date and enjoy your Sunday!

08/06/2026

Every great journey starts with a single note—and our 2026-27 Transformations Season is full of stories waiting to be shared!

We are hitting the road across Central Wisconsin, bringing live orchestral music to venues throughout Portage, Wood and Marathon counties. Whether you’re a lifelong symphony lover or coming to your very first concert, there’s a seat saved just for you.

Get your tickets today:
CWSO.ORG
715-345-7726

Where will you join us on the journey? Drop your city in the comments below!

08/04/2026

Looking for a Thursday evening plan in Wisconsin Rapids?

Nothing beats live music on a summer evening! Join us for an intimate performance featuring brilliant chamber works performed by musicians from the Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra.

Whether you're a lifelong classical fan or just looking to relax after work, this free concert is the perfect way to unwind.

On the Program:
Mozart – Horn Quintet in E-flat major
Beethoven – String Trio
Dvořák – Largo from the "New World" Symphony (Arranged for Chamber Ensemble)

Bring a friend, grab a good seat, and enjoy an unforgettable evening of music right in the heart of our community!

📍 Where: McMillan Memorial Library (Wisconsin Rapids, WI)

📅 When: THIS Thursday, August 6, 2026

⏰ Time: 6:30 PM

🎟️ Admission: Free & open to the public!

Address

800 Main Street
Stevens Point, WI
54481

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 4pm
Tuesday 10am - 4pm
Wednesday 10am - 4pm
Thursday 10am - 4pm

Telephone

+17153457726

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