In 1967 Frank J. Italiano brought a group of young musicians together, setting the foundation that would become the La Crosse Youth Symphony Orchestras (LYSO). Two years later in 1969, the La Crosse Youth Symphony Society was incorporated. LYSO has grown and changed over the years, but maintains its original purpose: to give the youth of our area an opportunity to gain valuable musical experience, to obtain insights into the techniques of their instrument from a faculty of professional musicians and teachers, and to give students the enjoyment of performing in an orchestra and an appreciation of the arts. LYSO prepares students for their musical future whether as a performer, a future teacher, or an avid audience participant.

In the fall of 1983, the Youth Symphony added the Philharmonic Orchestra. There have been other groups added over the years, such as the Preparatory Stings, the Discovery Orchestra and the Premier Orchestra. Today LYSO has two groups: the Philharmonic Orchestra and the Italiano Orchestra.

LYSO continues on the course Frank Italiano set in 1967: to give students a rewarding musical experience and to prepare them for their musical futures as performers, teachers, or audience members.

Philharmonic

The Philharmonic Orchestra offers an intermediate-level full orchestra experience (incorporating strings and winds). Intended for young musicians with some prior playing experience, it engages both middle and high school performers. Through their work in the Philharmonic Orchestra, players deepen their understanding of orchestral literature and develop the unique skills of performing in an orchestra, providing a valuable complement to their school band and orchestra programs.

Italiano

The Italiano Orchestra provides an advanced full orchestra experience for student musicians who demonstrate exceptional performance skills. Primarily composed of high school students, the ensemble explores standard orchestral literature to prepare students for musical pursuits at the collegiate and professional levels. Students in this ensemble require a high degree of personal dedication and consistent hard work from every musician.

Board and Staff

The staff and board consists of working professionals with a common goal of increasing the opportunity of student musicians throughout the Greater La Crosse Area.