Music is often the backdrop of our lives. We listen to music in just about any situation , enhancing our lives with its subtle presence; but for the members of the Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra, music is more than just a detail. It is the main focus.
“We want people to enjoy music as much as we do,” LGSO Executive Director Ashley Rewolinksi said. “My goal is that when people talk about visiting Lake Geneva, they come not only for the beautiful beaches, great food, and the unique shopping, but also the music – the symphony.”
Founded in 2001, LGSO is comprised of musicians from Walworth County and surrounding communities, forming a 60-member strong, all-volunteer symphony – one of the few in Wisconsin. It has been led by American prize-winning conductor David Anderson since 2010.
As a nonprofit, the organization offers numerous free performances through the Chamber Music Series, which feature smaller ensembles at various locations throughout Lake Geneva. Free summer outdoor concerts include full-orchestral performances in Flat Iron Park in Lake Geneva and in Phoenix Park in Delavan.
“Our goal is to provide as many opportunities to listen to orchestra music as we can,” Rewolinski said. “When we perform at community events, many people recognize pieces because they’ve heard them as theme songs, in movies, or somewhere else, but they don’t know they’re classical titles.”
A night out under the sunset is a welcome, affordable activity for residents and visitors of all ages.
“So many people are unsure if orchestra concerts are family-friendly,” Rewolinksi said. “But they are! We always try to make our concerts exciting and fun for everyone – with a mix of music for all tastes.”
To engage younger students, LGSO concerts are held at elementary schools, often providing a student’s first experience with an orchestra. The organization also offers University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Music Department Fellows Program scholarships for music students. Elementary through college-age students receive free admission to most LGSO concerts.
The orchestra provides financial support for instrumental music students in the public schools to take private lessons from LGSO musicians to inspire dedication and proficiency.
In addition, the Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra gives back to the musical community by joining the roster of United Performing Arts Funds affiliates.
LGSO works to bring not only patrons into Lake Geneva, but also leaders in the industry.
“We are excited to host the 2023 Association of Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra’s annual workshop this year,” Rewolinski said. “We will have over 30 orchestra administrators traveling to Lake Geneva for this event – and it is the first time we are hosting it.”
The LGSO’s 2023 season lineup includes an 80-member orchestra performing Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique at Big Foot High School on October 15.
The annual gala is the nonprofit’s biggest fundraiser being held this season on February 11, 2023.
“This year’s theme is Symphony of the Sea at The Abbey Resort. It will feature water-themed music, a live auction, and swing band dancing.”
If you cannot attend the gala, there are other opportunities to support the symphony.
“We love sharing our passion for music with the community,” Rewolinski explained, “but we cannot do that without the support of others. We exist because of our generous donors, sponsors, and grants from the Wisconsin Arts Board and the United Performing Arts Fund.”
It is also possible to volunteer for LGSO. Volunteers can help with ushering, working the box office, and assisting in concert setup and tear-down. Students who need service hours are welcome. What’s more, many of these opportunities include a free performance.
To volunteer, send an email to lakegenevasymphony@gmail.com. To make a donation visit lakegenevaorchestra.org or send to P.O. Box 92, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. For up-to-date schedule details visit lakegenevaorchestra.org.
