WSMA High School State Honors Music Project Concerts

This is a facility rental event presented by an independent organization separate from Overture Center for the Arts.

4:30pm - High School Honors Band and Orchestra Concert

8pm - High School Honors Treble Choir and Mixed Choir Concert

Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) State Honors Music Project began in 1967 to provide musically accomplished youth the opportunity to rehearse and perform with the nation's finest conductors in a professional and highly disciplined setting. This year, almost 1,500 student auditions were performed for the privilege of being one of the 429 students selected for membership in the five prestigious High School State Honors ensembles.

High School State Honors students attend an intensive four-day summer camp with the conductor of their ensemble. In addition, 32 of Wisconsin's finest music teachers volunteer time as section coaches, coordinators and administrators during the June summer camp and at these October concerts. Working together, they engaged in holistic lessons that incorporated several aspects of the programmed repertoire far beyond the musical such as history, theory, style, composition, text and culture. They connected with composers, worked with coaches and peers in daily sectionals that focused on technique and skill and rehearsed as a full ensemble in preparation for this concert.

Music teachers, parents, administrators and WSMA staff contribute time, expertise and encouragement for every student involved in the State Honors Music Project. Young musicians selected for these ensembles discover new levels of individual and group performance. Most importantly, the effort and dedication required of each Honors participant results in a lifelong memory of initiative, achievement and commitment to excellence as musicians, and as our future leaders.