Our MISSION is to offer an educational ensemble for young musicians to EXPLORE and DEVELOP their talents though musical expression, while creating a LIFE-LONG LOVE OF MUSIC.

We want to provide this opportunity to ANY youth musician, regardless of need.

WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN FULFILL THIS GOAL TOGETHER.

The Nancy Denton Memorial Scholarship Fund

MYSO would not be celebrating it's 65th Anniversary Season this year if it wasn't for Nancy Denton. In the late 1980s, Ms. Denton was instrumental in reviving and resurrecting MYSO in the Will County/Joliet area. She was determined to give area youth an opportunity to participate in orchestra music. One common thread that drew her family together was a love for music, where everyone in her family played an instrument of some kind. It was Nancy's strong belief that music would bring her children joy and pleasure all of their lives. After Nancy's passing, her family started this memorial fund in her name. This fund provides financial assistance to MYSO musicians who are unable to afford the annual membership fees.

MYSO has awarded over 20 musicians with the Nancy Denton Memorial Scholarship since the fund was started in 2011.

This was made possible through the generous gifts by the Denton Family and our Donors.

The Impact

"Being involved with music, through lessons, band and now MYSO, helped me figure out I want to always have music in my life as well as share it with other people….it has helped me to achieve this goal because it allows me to hear another musical teacher’s words and utilize what I learned. The things that I learned, I can reteach to other people to help them be the most successful person that they can be."

Peyton K.,  Nancy Denton Scholarship Fund Recipient - Summer Camp Experience

"During the jazz summer camp I had a wonderful time, made many friends, and gained a lot of knowledge of the Bass and jazz music. I am thankful beyond words can express and I have deep gratitude to the Denton family for giving me the opportunity experience this wonderful jazz camp."

 John M, Nancy Denton Scholarship Fund Recipient - Summer Camp Experience

"I hope to gain from MYSO better musicianship and more connections with all different types of people."

Natalie M., Nancy Denton Scholarship Fund Recipient

"With my acceptance into MYSO and its scholarship, I was able to reach my goal of improvement, and I no longer had the roadblock of orchestra being unavailable to me. Thank you."

 A. H., Nancy Denton Scholarship Fund Recipient

How You Can Help

Pictured below from left to right: Dennis Denton with Scholarship Recipient Mattie Levy, Nancy Denton (center), and Scholarship Recipient Peyton Kueltzo with Heather Denton.