Lauren Roznowski Hayden’s (‘02) musical journey began with a simple letter she received in sixth grade. That nomination to audition for MYSO would shape the course of her life.
As a young viola player from Wauwatosa, Lauren was nervous for her first audition, but her dedication earned her a spot in the String Orchestra. The following year, she advanced to Sinfonia under Steve Rindt’s direction—a pivotal moment that transformed her perspective on music. The shift from playing at school to performing at the Marcus Center marked a new level of seriousness in her musical pursuit.
After progressing through MYSO’s advanced ensembles, Lauren earned music degrees at Lawrence University and Northwestern University. Throughout her academic journey, she maintained connections with her MYSO mentors, occasionally crossing paths at performances and events.
Today, Lauren, known as “Ms. Roz” to her students, has come full circle. She serves as Director of MYSO’s Sinfonia Orchestra—a role she once dreamed of but never thought possible, given the organization’s history of long-tenured directors. “It’s a dream come true,” she says. “Every week feels special because I get to expand my reach to students from all these different places.”
Beyond MYSO, Lauren teaches middle school orchestra in Wauwatosa, where she’s witnessed an explosion of interest in music since the pandemic. Her program has grown by 100 students in just the past year, reflecting a hunger for musical connection among young people.
Lauren brings a unique perspective to her role, having experienced MYSO as both student and director. She emphasizes the importance of discipline while building positive relationships with her students. Under her direction, Sinfonia has grown to include 80-100 students annually, creating opportunities for young musicians to connect across communities and challenge themselves musically.
The friendships and lessons learned at MYSO have stayed with Lauren throughout her life—she still keeps in touch with her former carpool mates and fellow violists. Now, she’s passing on that legacy to the next generation, helping them discover their passions and potential through music.
“The things I remember most about middle and high school all center around the lessons I learned in MYSO,” Lauren reflects. “Whether you go into music or not, it’s invaluable.”
Help young people discover their passions and potential through music! Donate today at myso.org.
