Directed by Zach Mayer, the Philharmonic Orchestra is the intermediate full orchestra specifically designed for the developing musician. The Philharmonic Orchestra consists of students from grade 5 all the way to grade 12. Student musicians benefit from learning to work with other dedicated students with repertoire meant to develop fundamental musicianship skills.
MEET the conductor
Zach Mayer is a rising music educator and double bassist. He is the Philharmonic Orchestra Director with the La Crosse Area Youth Symphony Orchestras. Additionally, he teaches orchestra and modern band at Central High School in La Crosse.
As an educator, Zach strives to inspire and motivate students to become the best musicians and people they can be. He models his stance as a lifelong learner by being active in professional organizations such as the American String Teacher Association (ASTA) and the International Society of Bassists (ISB). In 2023, Zach presented at the ISB convention in Ann Arbor, Michigan with his bass mentor, Dr. Andrea Beckendorf.
As a performer, Zach is an in-demand bassist who performs with a wide variety of ensembles in the La Crosse area. Zach holds a section double bass position with the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra. Beyond his orchestral commitments, Zach regularly performs with The Jazz Foundation, Mike James, and the La Crosse Concert Band.
Zach holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from Luther College, and a master’s degree in education from the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse.
La Crosse Area Youth Symphony Orchestras 