Following the success of its inaugural year, the Marquette County String Orchestra Society (MCSOS) is preparing to launch its second season under the leadership of directors Inga Banitt, Janis Shier Peterson, and Wendy Larson. Looking back at the first season, which began with an adult refresher workshop and quickly grew to nearly thirty participants, the leadership team observed remarkable skill development, renewed confidence, and deep camaraderie among players during several seasonal concerts and summer chamber sessions. The ensemble rapidly evolved into a joyful, supportive space where adult musicians (many of whom had not picked up their instruments since high school) could rediscover the thrill of ensemble playing without judgment.
Season 2 officially kicks off on Saturday, August 22nd, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Marquette, featuring an expansion to welcome beginners who have never played a stringed instrument before. To accommodate brand-new musicians alongside returning players, rehearsals will feature a dedicated early block for foundational instruction, paired with customized, multi-level musical arrangements that allow beginners to join the full orchestra as soon as they feel comfortable. With an eclectic fall repertoire spanning classical masterworks by Vivaldi and Rimsky-Korsakov to modern arrangements like Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven," the ensemble's flexible approach aims to have every musician contributing at their own comfort level.
Public Radio 90's Kurt Hauswirth spoke with Banitt, Peterson, and Larson about MCSOS' second season:
Grounded in a mission that prioritizes encouragement, cognitive health, and community over perfection, MCSOS offers local adults a unique, low-stakes environment to learn something new and connect with fellow music lovers. Beyond weekly rehearsals, the society is currently pursuing 501(c)(3) non-profit status to help offset operational expenses and is organizing a community "Black and White" clothing swap fundraiser in November to help local families acquire affordable performance attire. Prospective members, returning players, and beginners seeking instrument guidance can get involved by bringing a music stand on August 22nd or reaching out via the Facebook page and email (mqtcountysos@gmail.com).
