Willmar Area Symphonic Orchestra

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

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 2023 to 2024 season, WASO is excited to bring orchestral music to the Willmar area.  Here are a few highlights from this concert season.

This past summer, the orchestra played our "Broadway Baby" summer pops concert, and partnered with the West Central Singers.  

In October 2023, WASO held our fall family concert with a theme of "Mysterious Orchestra.  In addition to music from the movie E.T., the orchestra played "The Composer is Dead", a fun piece with a narrator playing the role of an Inspector, who interrogated sections of the orchestra to find out who was responsible.  There were activities for kids and adults alike before the concert, featuring characters from Clue, including Mrs. White, Professor Plum, Miss Scarlet and more.  They helped people solve clues and be eligible to win prizes.  After the concert, we had an instrument petting zoo for kids (and kids at heart) to try out string and percussion instruments.  

In January 2024, we are very excited to have the Shin Trio join us for a "Viennese Connoisseurs Concert".   The Shin Trio includes cellist Pitnarry Shin from the Minnesota Orchestra, Kyo-Young Kim from the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestr and pianist Orion Kim.   

The orchestra will be celebrating St. Patrick's Day with a concert on March 17, 2024.  This concert will include modern and traditional Irish music, and will feature the band Lehto & Wright (https://lehtoandwright.com/home).

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 2024 concert. 

For a complete season listing, visit www.willmarorchestra.com/. 

WASO relies on grants, business sponsors, and more importantly on its dedicated membership and audience for financial support.  

For 2023, 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.