Wisconsin Intergenerational Orchestra

Join WIO

The Wisconsin Intergenerational Orchestra (WIO) is a performance orchestra bringing together musicians of all ages and skill levels in a challenging, non-competitive environment. Players benefit from educational interactions with each other while progressing toward a common goal of artistic excellence. WIO performances are designed to share the joy of music making with performers and audience members alike.

Strings

String players may join WIO without audition, pending available openings.
Register using the 2026 String Player Registration Form

Winds, Brass and Percussion

The WIO wind, brass, and percussion members are seated in chairs by invitation or audition.

Please contact Sarah Oftedahl for specific questions or information on current openings in these sections.

Rehearsal Schedules

Here’s a brief rundown of how WIO’s Orchestra works:

We practice and play in two semesters each year: SPRING and FALL

Each Semester includes about 12 weeks of rehearsal, one dress rehearsal and one concert

The orchestra practices every Tuesday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. on the campus of New Berlin West High School (18695 West Cleveland Ave, New Berlin, WI 53146). String players practice every week, and the full orchestra practices together the second half of each semester.

In between semesters, we also often have additional opportunities to make music with community partners. This is not required, but encouraged.

A Calendar of rehearsal schedules is maintained on this web site

Read the WIO Handbook for more information on orchestra expectations and experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does WIO differ from other orchestras?

WIO is fundamentally the same as any other orchestra. We rehearse and perform quality music to the best of our ability. We aim for a high level of artistic expression and precision of ensemble. Our philosophy, however, might be a bit different. We hope to build a completely inclusive community within our membership and believe that this diversity will benefit not only our music making, but also the richness and joy in our life experience.

What are rehearsals like?

Professional music educators run WIO rehearsals. Goals will be stated clearly and instructions will help guide the ensemble to improve musically. It will be challenging and fun at the same time.

Where does WIO meet?

We are very pleased to meet on the campus of New Berlin West Middle School-High School – 18695 W. Cleveland Avenue, New Berlin, WI 53146. The campus is convenient to Milwaukee and all suburbs. Please park in front of the main entrance and use the front door. Go through the cafeteria and look for a sign above the doorway in the back of the cafeteria that says "MUSIC DEPARTMENT". The iGen Symphony will meet in the Band Room (163) along with other music rehearsal rooms as needed. Click here to see a map that takes you from the building entrance to the music department. Wisconsin Intergenerational Orchestra is very grateful to the school district of New Berlin for hosting and welcoming us to their school.

What are the expectations of membership?

We ask that you:

Arrive to rehearsals and concerts a little early – maintain reliable, regular attendance
Bring your instrument (in good playing condition), music and pencil each time
Work out challenging musical areas at home (practice)
Spread our mission of inclusive community building through our work together

Are auditions required to join the orchestra?

For string players, an audition is not required for membership in WIO. From time to time we will ask to hear you play in order to help assess your best placement within the ensemble. Music directors will determine the leadership within each section. In order to create the best possible experience for all WIO members, not every selection is suitable for every member. You may be offered an alternate part or be asked to sit out for a specific selection. Various factors are considered including technical development, musical sensitivity and maturity, and instrumentation requirements. Wind players are invited to join us by audition.

Is financial aid available?

A limited number of scholarships may be available to individuals who demonstrate financial need. Please contact us at info@wiorchestra.org for more information about the application process.

For other questions please send us a note at: info@wiorchestra.org