In our latest podcast episode, we bridge two powerful perspectives that exemplify the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra’s impact: longtime donor Tony Petullo and our current Senior Symphony student leaders.
Tony’s 15-year journey with MYSO began with a simple donation but evolved into a passionate commitment to developing young musicians into tomorrow’s leaders. “Once you learn that discipline and learn how to be a valuable follower, you’re able to lead, and you’re a much better leader in other aspects of your life,” Tony explains, highlighting how musical training builds essential life skills.
This vision resonates perfectly with our student leaders’ experiences. Claire, a Senior Symphony oboist, shares what inspired her leadership journey: “I saw so many high-level musicians at the levels above me when I was younger…when the chance came to say, ‘Hey, can I be a part of that leadership?’ it was an awesome chance to step up.”
The episode reveals fascinating connections between donor support and student growth. While Tony emphasizes the importance of financial assistance for talented students who might otherwise be unable to continue their musical education, the students themselves describe MYSO as “family,” “challenging,” and “exciting”—a unique environment unlike their school experiences.
Perhaps most poignant is the full-circle moment that emerges when Tony shares his greatest hope for MYSO students: “The best thing they can say at the end is, ‘I want to do what you did. I hope that someday I’m in a place where I can afford to help someone like you helped me.'” This sentiment reflects how today’s student leaders describe their motivation to inspire younger musicians.
As our Senior Symphony students prepare for futures in fields ranging from actuarial science to engineering, political science, and conservatory education, one thing remains constant—their commitment to keeping music in their lives and paying forward the inspiration they received.
Listen to the full episode to hear how MYSO transforms not just musicians, but future leaders across all disciplines.
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