Dear SYSO Supporters,

I am thrilled to present our Annual Impact Report for 2023-24. In this report, you will discover the milestones we’ve achieved together and hear a sampling of stories from young musicians whose experiences with SYSO have impacted them.

Reflecting on the past year, I am grateful for your unwavering commitment to SYSO and the students we serve. Through your support, we delivered on our mission to empower youth through excellence in orchestral education. Through our orchestral ensembles, conservatory, in-school support, and summer programming, this year we provided exceptional musical education, mentorship, and performance opportunities to nearly 1,800 aspiring musicians from 95 unique zip codes. These opportunities help students build their skills and knowledge as musicians and develop thoughtful, engaged, and well-rounded individuals and communities.

This season, we are thrilled to welcome our new Executive Director, Melody Mikkelsen, whose leadership and vision will guide SYSO into an exciting new chapter. With her at the helm, we look forward to engaging new avenues to increase access to our programs, reaching more young musicians in our region and beyond, and strengthening the foundation that supports our dedicated staff, coaches, and conductors—the heart of SYSO’s magic. Most importantly, your support makes it all possible, ensuring that SYSO continues to inspire and transform young lives for generations to come!

We are deeply grateful for your role in shaping the future of SYSO and the young musicians we serve.

Sincerely,

Robert M. Sokol, SYSO Board President