Wisconsin Young Artists Compete: The Final Forte took place on March 5, 2025! The MSO was thrilled to welcome four incredible young local musicians to the stage to perform with the Madison Symphony Orchestra. What an incredible opportunity to showcase a variety of musicians, repertoire, and offer a free showcase of classical music to the state of Wisconsin. Thank you to Wisconsin Public Radio and PBS Wisconsin for your support for this event! Check out more information, photos, patron feedback, and more below!
Artist Information:
Indre Raghavan, Violin (1st prize)
Middleton High School
Sibelius Violin Concerto in D minor, Op. 47, 1st movement
Vivian Van de Sype Cucu, Viola (2nd prize)
University School of Milwaukee
Walton Viola Concerto, 1st movement
Lucy Wu, Cello (Honorable Mention)
Whitefish Bay High School
Dvořák Cello Concerto in B minor, Op. 104, 3rd movement
Atticus Coen, Piano (Honorable Mention)
Sun Prairie East High School
Gershwin Piano Concerto in F, 1st movement
Rebroadcast dates:
8pm, Friday, March 7 on The Wisconsin Channel (PBS Wisconsin-2)
2pm, Saturday, March 8 on The Wisconsin Channel (PBS Wisconsin-2)
Noon, Sunday, March 9 on Wisconsin Public Radio
8pm, Monday, March 10 on Wisconsin Public Radio
3am, Thursday, March 13 on The Wisconsin Channel (PBS Wisconsin-2)
8pm, Monday, March 31 on Milwaukee PBS (Channel 36-1)
Hear what the audience had to say…
“We enjoy listening to classical music but also like getting out of the house now and then. Our family has grown up singing and playing musical instruments so it’s always nice to listen to young artists sharing their talent with the community. What a treat to be able to play with the esteemed Madison Symphony Orchestra.” – MSO Patron
“High-class production with extremely talented musicians, including the young artists and orchestra. Few opportunities to experience this quality of music without PBS providing it. Thank you PBS.” —Larry from Suamico (PBS Survey)
“This was obviously not the first rodeo for the Final Forte – the entire program was exquisitely planned and executed. The 4 soloists were so well prepared and the MSO and John Demain had their backs for their performances.” – MSO Patron
“It is interesting to hear about the musicians families and backgrounds, what draws each to different instruments. Their styles and teachers are also an interesting part of the story. … What a great opportunity to enjoy and cheer for the talented musicians who will play us into the future!” —Julie from Pulaski (PBS Survey)
“The gift that MSO is to our community, playing with 4 young artists. It was amazing to watch these performances.” – MSO Patron
“It is so great to watch and listen to such gifted high school students along with the accompaniment of the Madison Symphony Orchestra. I really appreciate this broadcast. It a perfect example of the wonderful programming on Wisconsin Public Television.” —Gary from Monroe (PBS Survey)
“These young artists are so talented and am in awe of their stage presence and musical ability. Yes, it takes years of dedication and hard work to become this accomplished and this is a fantastic way to showcase their skill. Each of the four musicians were brilliant and deserve this recognition.” – MSO Patron
“Such talents shared with us, the viewers, is just amazing and marvelous. … Thank you for providing this for viewers in Wisconsin.” —Sue from Janesville (PBS Survey)
“Amazed how long they have been playing and their dedication to their craft. With the interviews and Bio’s, got to see their individual and unique personalities. Also, the amount of courage it takes to stand on stage and play an instrument 99.9% of the average people couldn’t play is amazing.” – MSO Patron
“A great example for young musicians, showing what could be accomplished with desire, hard work, and support.” —Robin from Oshkosh (PBS Survey)
“The incredible talent of 4 high school students. You could have fooled me if you’d told me they were professional artists.” – MSO Patron
“It was totally fabulous! Such talent among the four [performers] and the Madison Symphony Orchestra! … Keep it coming!” —Barb from Middleton (PBS Survey)
“Their poise, confidence, exceptional talent. How involved with they are with other young people, teaching, volunteering.” – MSO Patron
“Exceptional show—showcasing amazing local talent in WI. … [I appreciated] the outstanding talent and stage presence of the young musicians. My daughter is involved in Suzuki music at UWSP and we so enjoy watching the Final Forte.” —Suzette from Stevens Point (PBS Survey)
“I have recommended and brought numerous friends with me over the years, and everyone has always enjoyed the performance and wanted to come back. My companion last night was a friend/coworker who went for the first time, and she said she’s hooked and will definitely be back.” – MSO Patron
