Special Events

If you have an affinity for great music in great company, join the MSO for special events throughout the season as we celebrate music and Madison’s vibrant cultural community.

Free & Open to the Public

The Final Forte

Wisconsin Young Artists Compete: The Final Forte is a free concert and competition that is broadcast live on PBS Wisconsin and Wisconsin Public Radio. Four outstanding young artists perform with the Madison Symphony Orchestra in the final round of our Bolz Young Artist Competition. Learn more.

Open Rehearsals

The MSO is one of the few orchestras in the nation to welcome the public into select rehearsals, free of charge. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to experience a working symphony in action and be sure to bring the young musicians in your life to see what happens behind the scenes. Learn more.

Rhapsodie Quartet Recitals

The resident ensemble of our award-winning HeartStrings program gives performances that are free and open to the public throughout the season. United in mission, the members of the quartet create a fusion of talent, passion, and heart in their performances. Learn more.

Hunt Quartet Recitals

The resident ensemble of our Up Close and Musical program gives performances that are free and open to the public throughout the season. Learn more.

Concerts & After-Parties

MSO After Dark

Join your Madison Symphony Orchestra and fellow young adult classical music lovers for MSO After Dark! Immediately following select MSO concerts, you’re invited to the after-party with hors d’oeuvres and drinks. This is your chance to meet Madison Symphony Orchestra musicians, Music Director John DeMain, special guests, and music enthusiasts like you. Learn more.

Out at the Symphony

Join your Madison Symphony Orchestra for a concert, followed by a special Out at the Symphony social gathering! Immediately following the concert, you’re invited to the after-party with hors d’oeuvres and drinks in the second-floor Promenade Lounge. This is your chance to meet Madison Symphony Orchestra musicians, Music Director John DeMain, special guests, and connect with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and friends age 21 and above. Learn more.

Fundraisers

Symphony Gala

Our annual Symphony Gala, presented by the Madison Symphony Orchestra League, celebrates and supports our award-winning Education and Community Engagement Programs at the Madison Concourse Hotel. Learn more.

Symphony at Sunset

Join us at Burrows Park for a newly reimagined summer benefit for the MSO’s Education and Community Engagement Programs. Learn more.

Parties of Note

The Madison Symphony Orchestra League’s series of themed parties take place throughout the year. Activities, menus, and venues appeal to a wide variety of interests and tastes. All parties are limited in the number of guests and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Many sell out quickly (some are already sold out). Reservations made online through our website are highly recommended to secure the parties you want. You may make reservations for as many events as you wish. Learn more.

Voices of Spring Gala

Hosted by our Friends of the Overture Concert Organ, Voices of Spring features dinner and music on stage at Overture Hall to benefit the Organ Endowment Fund. Learn more.

Community Concerts

MSO on the Go

Join the Madison Symphony Orchestra for a family-friendly concert at a performing arts venue near you! These concerts are free and open to the public and no tickets are necessary. Learn more.

Family Concerts

Associate Conductor Kyle Knox leads the Madison Symphony Orchestra and the winner of our Bolz Young Artist Competition in a family-friendly performance in Overture’s Capitol Theater. Learn more.