The present Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra began in 1947 when the Central State Symphony Orchestra grew out of the late Peter Michelsen's music classes at the then Central State Teacher's College (now University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point). The 50-member orchestra presented its first concert on April 4, 1948 at the auditorium in the Central State Teacher's College.

In 1953, the Central State Symphony Orchestra became the Stevens Point Symphony. In 1977, the name was once again changed to the Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra and five subscription concerts were presented each season. It was then that performances were first held in the newly constructed Sentry Theater. The 689 seats in the theater were soon sold out and back-to-back performances were initiated with the 1980-81 season.

The orchestra now boasts sixty semi-professional members and continues to draw both players and audience members from the broader Central Wisconsin area.

vision statement

The Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra will enrich the cultural lives of the residents of the Central Wisconsin area by presenting high quality concerts, fostering an appreciation of symphonic music, providing a performance venue for area musicians, and developing an educational opportunity for youth.