Annual Report

Dear MYAC families and friends,

2024–2025 was a year of growth, joy, and meaningful connection through music for Midwest Young Artists Conservatory (MYAC).

Symphony Orchestra embarked on its first tour since Covid performing in Washington’s Meany Concert Hall in Seattle, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall in Portland, and Christ Church Cathedral in Vancouver, Canada. MYAC students played side-by-side with local youth symphonies in major works: Brahms Symphony No. 2, Mahler Symphony No. 5, and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherezade. These performances were not just musically challenging—they built connection, community, and memories students will carry forever.

We renewed our collaboration with the Lang Lang Foundation, featuring young soloists in piano concertos with orchestra at Wentz Concert Hall, Naperville and the Riviera Ballroom, Lake Geneva, WI.

In our chamber music program, Quartetto Speranza excelled at four national competitions: a Bronze Medal at Fischoff, Silver Medal at Rembrandt, Silver Medal at Barnett Chamber Music Competition, and an Honorable Mention at the St. Paul String Quartet Competition.

Concert Jazz Band was featured at the Chicago Jazz Festival, and alum Ben Solomon returned as our Jazz in January soloist. The Choral Program welcomed Daniel Ermel as its new Director. Mr. Ermel also revived the summer musical theater camp.

The newly sponsored O’Malley Family Foundation Concerto Competition drew a record 164 in-person performances. The Chicago Chamber Music Competition also saw strong participation, with 25 ensembles and 94 students.

MYAC hosted 19 guest artists, including masterclass teachers, competition judges, and guest conductors, who provided outstanding instruction, coaching, and guidance to our students.

Through all this, MYAC remains financially stable, ending the year with a balanced budget. Operational expenses totaled $1,321,969.82, with a healthy income mix of 61% earned and 39% contributed revenue.

While these numbers show our growth, the real impact lies in the personal development of our students. Our families continually affirm the lifelong values that MYAC instills, which are truly priceless: work ethic, responsibility, and respect.

Sincerely with great admiration, respect & appreciation,

Allan Dennis (Founder & President)
Martha Arroyo (Chairman of the Board)