Willmar Area Symphonic Orchestra

WASO brings compelling concerts, high level guest artists, and artistic excellence to the Willmar Area communities.

2022 to 2023 is the 65th Anniversary season for WASO!

In 1957, a few friends got together to try some simple string ensemble pieces. Today, the number has grown to over 50 talented, dedicated, and fun-loving artists. Musicians of WASO continue to donate their time and talents, all for the love of music making and dedication to presenting quality concerts for Willmar Area communities. 

For our 2022 to 2023 season, WASO is excited to bring orchestral music to the Willmar area.  This past summer, the orchestra played a "Movie Magic" summer pops concert.  In October 2022, WASO held our fall family concert with a theme of Animalia, which featured animal themed music and included an animal petting zoo with llamas and alpacas and an instrument petting zoo for kids (and kids at heart) to try out string and percussion instruments.  In January 2023, we are very excited to have Cellist Pitnarry Shin from the Minnesota Orchestra with us to perform Saint-Saens Cello Concerto No. 1 in A minor.  We also continue to be dedicated to encouraging and developing the young musicians and artists of our area. We will feature winners from our Young Artist's Competition at our May 2023 concert.   For a complete season listing, visit http://www.willmarorchestra.com/. 

WASO is still recovering from the pandemic and the halt to our concerts for over a year and a half. Now, more than ever, WASO relies on grants, business sponsors, and more importantly on its dedicated membership and audience for financial support.  

For 2022, WASO has a goal to raise $2000. Money will be used to:

- Bring outstanding guest artist to the Willmar area

- Purchase sheet music and scores

- Continue to support the Young Artist competition

- Secure rehearsal and performance space

- Hire auxiliary players 

WASO is governed by passionate, transparent, and professional board of directors - your contribution will be used wisely. Thank you for supporting Willmar Area Symphonic Orchestra.