WCM Announces Newly Expanded Concert Companion Series
WCM Announces Newly Expanded Concert Companion Series
The Wisconsin Conservatory of Music is proud to announce the newly expanded Concert Companion Series, an immersive program designed to deepen your love of music by pairing engaging classroom sessions with world-class live performances.
Following a successful pilot last spring, this year’s series has been broadened to four distinct offerings, each spotlighting a major composer or work. Participants meet with WCM faculty for three classes that explore the history, stories, and artistry behind a piece of music, and then attend a professional performance together. Along the way, you’ll connect with fellow music lovers, enjoy wine and cheese, and walk away with a richer understanding of the music you hear.
Why It’s Special
Concert Companion is more than just a class—it’s an experience. Guided by expert teaching artists, participants explore the composer’s life, historical context, and musical language, all within the intimate setting of the Conservatory’s historic McIntosh Goodrich Mansion. By the time you take your seat at the concert hall, you’ll hear every note in a new light, with fresh insight and appreciation.
Last year’s program, focused on Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony, was a sold-out success. Led by celebrated pianist and WCM faculty member Juan Pablo Horcasitas, participants unpacked the passion and tragedy behind the symphony over three engaging sessions—complete with lively discussion, camaraderie, and refreshments. The journey culminated in a breathtaking performance by the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra at the Bradley Symphony Center, leaving audiences inspired and asking for more.
What’s Ahead This Season
Building on that momentum, the 2025-2026 Concert Companion Series offers four unique opportunities to dive deeper into the music you love:
MSO: Paul Lewis Plays Grieg – Explore the lyricism and drama of Grieg’s Piano Concerto with WCM faculty before hearing renowned pianist Paul Lewis perform with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.
- Program: Rautavaara (Cantus Arcticus), Grieg (Piano Concerto), Nielsen (Symphony No. 4, “The Inextinguishable”)
- Class Led by: Juan Pablo Horcasitas
- Class Dates: Oct 25, Nov 1, & Nov 8 (3:00pm)
- Performance: Nov 15 (7:30pm) 📍 Bradley Symphony Center
- Learn More / Register →
Florentine Opera: The Tales of Hoffmann – Discover Offenbach’s fantastical opera through guided sessions, then attend the Florentine Opera’s full production together.
- Program: Offenbach (Tales of Hoffman)
- Class Led by: Phillip Pearl
- Class Dates: Feb 21, Feb 28, & Mar 7 (3:00pm)
- Performance: Mar 13 (7:30pm) 📍 Marcus Performing Arts Center
- Learn More / Register →
MSO: Fandango & Rapsodie – A celebration of rhythm and color featuring Spanish and French masterpieces, explored in class and then live in concert.
- Program: Ravel (Alborado del gracioso), Arturo Márquez (Fandango) feat. violinist Ilana Setapen, Ravel (Rapsodie espangole), Turina, (Danzas fantásticas)
- Class Led by: Juan Pablo Horcasitas
- Class Dates: Apr 4, Apr 11, & Apr 18 (3:00pm)
- Performance: Apr 25 (7:30pm) 📍 Bradley Symphony Center
- Learn More / Register →
MSO: Stravinsky’s Firebird – Delve into one of the most electrifying works of the 20th century before experiencing its magic performed by the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.
- Program: Wynton Marsalis (Violin Concerto) feat. violinist Giuseppe Gibboni, Rimsky-Korsakov (Capriccio espagnol), Stravinsky (Suite from The Firebird)
- Class Led by: Juan Pablo Horcasitas
- Class Dates: May 2, May 9, & May 16 (3:00pm)
- Performance: May 30 (7:30pm) 📍 Bradley Symphony Center
- Learn More / Register →
Join the Journey
Whether you’re a lifelong music enthusiast or simply curious to learn more, the Concert Companion Series offers an accessible, welcoming way to go deeper into the music that moves you.
Registration is only $60 per Concert Companion, which includes three class sessions, refreshments, and your ticket to the live performance. Want the full experience? Sign up for all four series for just $200—a savings of $40 and a season filled with unforgettable music. Space is limited for each series, so we encourage you to register early.
Call (414) 276-5760 or click the links above to register!
