Since its inception, the Weston Music Society (WMS) has as one of its key goals helping students at all levels learn about, appreciate, and participate in music education and performance. Says Lou Marett, WMS President, “The WMS realizes that, in this time of declining financial support for the arts, we must do all that we can to provide the opportunity for our students to both learn and appreciate music.”
The WMS program is multifaceted. For the elementary schools, 2 free concerts a year are provided to the students led by professional musicians. These include introduction to the instruments of the orchestra based on its various sections. The 2025-2026 season kicks off in October and features the brass instruments. Other concerts feature the wind, string and percussion elements. Christy Blackford, Vice President of Education, says, “Young students get an opportunity to hear live professional concerts and to learn about the science behind music and how sound is created. They are very curious about how these instruments work, how the musicians got started playing and how they can start playing. I am always amazed at how much the students enjoy hearing their favorite tunes played by a professional ensemble. It’s a really cool experience and you can just see the fun.”
The two free concerts in the bandshell in Weston Town Center, the “Symphony in the Park: Holiday Edition” and the “Symphony in the Park: Sounds of Spring” are great follow-ups for the students to hear a full orchestra featuring all the instruments.
The WMS has also become more active with the middle schools and high schools. It helps to find opportunities for their performers in band, drama and chorus to perform, such as “Saturday Nights on Main Street” and “Celebrate the Arts”. The scholarship program for seniors continuing their music education in college has engendered great financial support from the community. Stephanie Bescherelle, WMS Treasurer, is the Board liaison for these programs.
The WMS keeps in touch with the musicians in the scholarship program. Many have sent letters of appreciation, and perform at WMS and other events. Seeing this personal response to the WMS is heartwarming and shows it has made an impact on their appreciation of music. Stephanie notes, “This continued contact with these students who play, sing, and perform is so rewarding. It is wonderful to see their dedication and enthusiasm.”
If you would like to participate through volunteering, by donation to help further our activities, or have any questions, please go to the WMS site, westonmusicsociety.org.
