Our History

For nearly 100 years, Virtuosi Live! has brought world-class music to Northeast Wisconsin. What began as a small group of passionate music lovers has grown into a lasting cultural institution shaped by artists, audiences, volunteers, and supporters who believe in the power of live performance.

Founded in 1927 as the Brown County Civic Music Association, the organization was created with a simple but ambitious goal: to make exceptional live music accessible to the Green Bay community. From the earliest concert seasons, that mission resonated, and audiences showed up year after year to listen, learn, and connect through music.

Over the decades, the Association presented acclaimed artists from around the world, earning a reputation for quality programming and thoughtful stewardship of the arts. As the organization evolved, so did its reach—expanding educational outreach and creating opportunities for students to learn directly from professional musicians through masterclasses and school visits.

In 2025, the organization entered a new chapter as Virtuosi Live! This refreshed identity reflects a forward-looking vision while honoring nearly a century of musical excellence. Today, Virtuosi Live! continues to balance tradition with innovation, presenting extraordinary performances, investing in education, and building a sustainable future for live music in our region. This is also the year that we entered into a partnership with the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts. This partnership gave us a permanent home and opened the door to expanded accessibility, more seamless ticketing, and a greatly enhanced audience experience.

As we approach our centennial season, we celebrate not just the music but the community that has made it possible. We are looking ahead with excitement to what comes next.

A Century of Music