Fox Cities News

The Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra (OSO) has embarked on a new project titled Score! Our Town, Our Music, which aims to collect and share stories about how music has influenced the lives of its members. Under the leadership of Dylan Chmura-Moore, the new maestro and director of orchestras at UW Oshkosh, the orchestra has evolved into a diverse ensemble of student musicians, adult community musicians, and professionals with ties to the Fox Valley.

Chmura-Moore emphasized the importance of recognizing the unique backgrounds and passions of the musicians within the orchestra. He stated, “We all have so much to give and to share but need amazing storytellers like Grace and her students to bring these awesome histories to life and recognize the immense passion and diversity in our community.”

One of the students involved in the project, Aubrie Selsmeyer, shared her experience of interviewing Chmura-Moore and other OSO musicians. She expressed her delight in discovering personal anecdotes such as Chmura-Moore's childhood piano lessons. Selsmeyer reflected on the project, saying, “Working on the Score! project was unlike anything I’ve done in college so far. It was hands-on work that put me in front of real people doing what we all need a lot more of, simple human connection.”

The project also delved into the musical journeys of various OSO members, including UWO alumnus Nathaniel Fores, who rekindled his passion for playing the violin through the orchestra. Fores shared, “With the Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra, I have a reason to play and people to play for.”

The stories and photos collected as part of Score! Our Town, Our Music will be showcased on the Humans of Oshkosh Facebook page and in an exhibit at the UWO Music Hall. Chmura-Moore expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to share the stories of the dedicated volunteers in the orchestra, emphasizing the importance of community connection in music-making.

As the project culminates, the Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra will present its season finale concert on April 20, featuring six soloists and about 100 singers. Chmura-Moore highlighted the significance of the project in fostering a sense of community and mutual support among musicians and audiences alike.

The Score! Our Town, Our Music exhibit will be on display in the lobby of the Arts and Communications building on April 20, in conjunction with the orchestra's performance at the UWO Music Hall. For more information about the event, visit the Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra website.