Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra History
Written by Ruth Bushman, Manitowoc Symphony Violinist

For 50 years, the Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra has been delighting audiences and providing a creative outlet for community musicians. The members of the orchestra carry their passion for fine music to delicious heights through live presentations of classical works. Manitowoc is one of the smallest cities in the United States to have a symphony orchestra.

For first conductor, Karl Miller, whose desire to conduct an orchestra was nurtured by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra’s radio broadcasts, the creation of the Manitowoc Civic Orchestra in 1951 was a fulfillment of a boyhood dream. Following a World War II stint in the Air Force and graduation from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, with a degree in music, Miller and his wife Betty moved to Manitowoc. He had decided to accept a position with the Manitowoc Public Schools, influenced by his peers’ opinion that the city was ready for a civic orchestra.

Recruitment for the orchestra began in early 1951, followed by first string sectional rehearsals in the fall. Over the years, the organization grew in stature and was recognized as playing an important role in the Lakeshore area’s quality of life.

The symphony was originally headquartered at Lincoln High School, but moved its performances to the elegantly appointed Capitol Civic Centre following extensive remodeling of the 71-year-old structure a few years ago.

From 1951 until his retirement in 1986, Miller encouraged, stimulated and instructed his musicians. He was the Driving force and was totally dedicated to the orchestra.

From 1986-1990, Manuel Prestamo was the next conductor. It was at this time, with the approval of our sponsors, the City of Manitowoc, the orchestra began charging admission. Mr. Prestamo applied for and received grants every year for the orchestra. He worked closely with the Orchestra Board and in March 1987 helped organize and develop the very active Symphony league. Its purpose is to support the orchestra and to develop musical growth and awareness throughout the community. The League assumed responsibility for the promotion and sale of tickets, for the staging of a major annual fund-raising event, and for the offering of post concert receptions to enable the audience to meet socially with the orchestra members and guest artists.

Under Manuel’s leadership, the orchestra had the opportunity to play under many guest conductors from other countries and to accompany many guest artists. After four seasons Manuel left the orchestra with a high community profile, an active and energetic Board of Directors and League, and increased paying audience, and a promising future.

In 1990-91, the Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra’s 40th season, was Wayne Wildman’s first year as director and conductor. Maestro Wildman has worked very hard and through his many personal contacts has succeeded in greatly increasing the number of regular players in the orchestra. By selecting music familiar to both orchestra members and audience alike, he has continued to increase the number of people attending the concerts. At his very first concert with the orchestra Wayne doubled as conductor and pianos soloist. Maestro Wildman has a great rapport with the orchestra, board, league and audience.

The lakeshore community can be proud of featuring such a committed organization of musicians for over 50 years. In 1991 they sponsored Victor Borge, selling out long before the concert date. They sponsored world famous violinist, Isaac Stern, in duo-recital with Yefim Bronfman, one of the top three pianists in the country. Since then, they have brought in the Tokyo String Quartet with Pinchas Zuckerman, the Canadian Brass, Yefim Bronfman again, and most recently, Gary Karr.

They Symphony provides one of the area’s finest entertainment experiences and all lovers of fine music are invited to discover the Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra as they carry their passion for music into the next decade.