What if you could give a young musician the chance to record music on a Hollywood recording stage - led by a Hollywood pro who got his start in MYSO?

This spring, the Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO) is welcoming back one of our own: Stefan L. Smith, a studio musician and Hollywood composer who’s recorded on hit movies such as Avatar, Moana 2, Spider-Man, and more.

Stefan began his journey as a violist in MYSO. Today, he’s composing and performing for some of the biggest productions in the world.

Now, he’s coming back to share that experience with the next generation of musicians.

What Your Gift Makes Possible

With your support, we’ll create an unforgettable two-day experience:

A professional-style recording session led by Stefan
A hands-on workshop about the music industry (TV, film, games, and more)
A public concert conducted by Stefan Smith
A pre-concert Q&A and meet & greet
Hospitality and meals for participating students from MYSO and local schools

Our Goal

We’re raising $5,000 to bring Stefan L. Smith back to MYSO for this unforgettable experience.

This covers his artist fee, travel from Los Angeles, and local hospitality. It’s the cornerstone of the entire weekend - without it, there’s no workshop, no recording session, and no concert.

Thanks to a generous $1,000 matching gift from our Board of Directors, your donation will go even further in making this possible.

Every dollar beyond our goal will help remove barriers for students—covering meals, rehearsal costs, and supporting the MYSO Scholarship Fund.

Learn more at www.mysomusic.org

Event Dates & Location

March 20–21, 2026 at Joliet Junior College

Friday, March 20 – Student workshop + Hollywood-style recording session
Saturday, March 21 – Public concert conducted by Stefan, with pre-concert talk and VIP meet & greet

Donor Perks

Each tier includes the benefits listed above it.

Donation Level	Perks
$25	Thank-you note + your name in the concert program
$50	2 free concert tickets + website recognition
$100	Personalized digital thank-you video from MYSO students
$250	VIP Meet & Greet with Stefan before the concert
$500	Signed concert poster + MYSO tote & swag
$1,000	Executive Producer credit in the program + keepsake plaque

Tax Information

The Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Bring Hollywood Home. Inspire the Next Generation.

DONATE NOW

From MYSO to Hollywood and Back

By Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra

From MYSO to Hollywood and Back

An evening with Grammy Performer Stefan L. Smith, MYSO Alum

Team Members