From Joliet to Hollywood and Back: MYSO Alum Stefan L. Smith Returns for Special Workshop and Concert

Joliet, IL – September 2025 – What if a young musician in our community could experience what it’s like to record music on a Hollywood recording stage? This spring, the Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO) is making that dream a reality.
On March 20–21, 2026, MYSO will welcome back alumnus Stefan L. Smith - a studio musician and Hollywood composer who’s recorded on hit movies such as Avatar, Moana 2, Spider-Man, and more. Smith, who began his journey as a violist in MYSO, is returning home to lead a two-day workshop and public concert at Joliet Junior College.

A Weekend of Inspiration and Opportunity

With Smith’s guidance, MYSO students and young musicians from local schools will:

• Experience the professional recording process used in films, TV, and games
• Learn about the film, TV, and gaming music industry in a hands-on workshop
• Perform in a public concert conducted by Stefan Smith
• Enjoy a Q&A and VIP meet & greet before the performance

“The opportunity to learn first-hand from Mr. Smith about his musical journey starting here in my own hometown of Joliet all the way to Hollywood is inspiring,” says MYSO Member and fellow composer Brian Baron. “I’m excited to get to know more of how he went from MYSO to where he is now today.”

Community Support Makes It Possible

To bring Stefan Smith back from Los Angeles, MYSO has launched a fundraising campaign with a goal of $5,000. This will cover the artist fee, travel, and local hospitality. Thanks to a $1,000 matching gift from the MYSO Board of Directors, every community donation will have double the impact.
“Stefan’s story shows our students - and our community - that world-class careers can start right here in Joliet,” said Peter Lipari, Music Director of MYSO. “This workshop is about more than music. It’s about showing young people that their talents can take them anywhere.”

Donor Recognition

Community members can support the campaign at www.givebutter.com/myso. Donors will receive special recognition and perks, including:

• $25: Thank-you note + program listing
• $50: Two concert tickets + website recognition
• $100: Personalized student thank-you video
• $250: VIP Meet & Greet with Stefan
• $500: Signed concert poster + MYSO tote bag
• $1,000: Executive Producer credit + keepsake plaque

Event Details

• Friday, March 20, 2026 – Student workshop and Hollywood-style recording session
• Saturday, March 21, 2026 – Public concert with pre-concert talk and VIP meet & greet
• Location: Joliet Junior College

“Playing in MYSO was truly life-changing for me. Under Dr. Larry Sisk’s direction, I discovered a world of symphonic music that opened the door to my career as both a composer and orchestral musician. Returning home as a Hollywood session musician, film composer, and symphonic artist, I’m thrilled to share what I’ve learned and to show these students just how many directions their music can take them - whether as a performer, composer, arranger, on stage, in the studio, or on the podium - it can all begin right here.” - Stefan L. Smith

About MYSO

The Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO) brings together students from 21 schools across the southwest suburbs, offering a transformative symphonic experience. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, MYSO provides opportunities for young musicians to perform at the highest level while building confidence, discipline, and lifelong love of music.

MYSO Director Peter Lipari with the Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra. Picture by Tom Killoran Photography.