Rooted in community. Driven by creativity. United by music.

Founded in 2024, the Milwaukee Community Orchestra (MCO) is a dynamic organization designed to foster a lifelong love of music. Our mission is to enrich Milwaukee’s cultural landscape by offering a welcoming space where musicians of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels can come together to make music. Open to advanced beginners and seasoned amateurs alike — ages 12 and up — MCO invites anyone who reads music fluently and enjoys orchestral repertoire to rehearse and perform with us. No audition is required.

MCO brings together a diverse group of musicians for three powerful performances each season, showcasing classical symphonic works and beloved pops favorites. In our 2024-25 inaugural season, over 200 musicians have already taken the stage, sharing their artistry and inspiring audiences across the Milwaukee area and beyond.

Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to expand our offerings with the launch of a new Community String Orchestra in Fall 2025 — broadening opportunities for participation and deepening our engagement with the greater Milwaukee region.

We’re proud to call the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, Homestead High School, and Shorewood High School our home venues, and we’re grateful to the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra for providing us with percussion equipment. These community partnerships make our work possible and reflect the collaborative spirit at the heart of our mission.

Join us as we build a musical home for all.