"We choose to sponsor the Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra because it is an amazing source of entertainment for the community and it is a great opportunity for local musicians to showcase their talents. All of those involved in CLSO are world-class musicians and never fail to impress with their performances. We've been fortunate enough to have several members of the orchestra lend their talents to teaching students at our store and they do a magnificent job. We are very proud to have this musical group in the lakes area. Thank You CLSO for all of the hard work and dedication you put into entertaining us!"

“The CLSO concert in May, like its predecessors (Tchaikovsky's 6th in 2024 and Beethoven's 9th in 2023) had and continues to have a strong impact on me. To have the opportunity to play breathtaking compositions alongside professionals in their respective craft affords a pride and thankfulness I would not otherwise experience. Concerts such as "Inspiration of the Orchestra" (2025) included Dvorak's Te Deum and Kaska's Triple Concerto; both of which invoke incredible emotions that only certain compositions can accomplish. I'm thankful for the CLSO - How it enriches our community and allows someone like me to continue my craft alongside other amazing people that share the same passion!”

"A 'community orchestra' is a term that often brings expectations of mediocrity. The Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra rebuffs the trend. When I auditioned for CLSO (sight unseen), I found myself part of an orchestra that punches far above its weight. The caliber of its member musicians, programming, and performances outstrips many professional orchestras. I leave Tuesday night rehearsals both exhausted and recharged, inspired by the musicians who are my colleagues and have become my friends."

"I was so excited to see Brad Lambrecht putting up a notice for beginning a community orchestra in Alexandria in the fall of 2009. I had never played in an orchestra, and this seemed the perfect opportunity to try something new, since one of my favorite things to do is to make music with others. So, I volunteered to go to the first dinner meeting with a chiffon cake and we became the Board! It has been wonderful to participate for all these thirteen seasons playing in the flute section and being on the board most of the time. We’ve all grown as musicians and friends and look forward to many more years of sharing our music with the Alexandria community."

“Absolutely amazing experience. The music is still replaying in my head.”

“The May CLSO concert was a meaningful collaboration on many levels as a performing musician. Working with other high caliber professional musicians such as the Lyra Trio (2025), always inspires us to raise our game and work to provide the audience with the best possible musical performance. I believe we were able to achieve this goal which personally was very satisfying. The choir provided another opportunity to collaborate in a different way. The performance with other local musicians is always special when we are able to showcase the outstanding talent the area has to offer.”

"Our final CLSO concert in May (2025) had the biggest impact on me. I was unfamiliar with the Kaska Triple Concerto, but it ended up being one of my favorites this year…. The thought and creativity that is put into the planning of our concerts is extraordinary and I think it shows, in our growing audience numbers and in the comments we hear. This is such a remarkable opportunity for everyone in this community and I am so humbled and grateful to be a part of it."