Neighbor News
From Joliet to Hollywood and Back: MYSO Alum Stefan L. Smith Returns for Special Workshop and Public Concert
Stefan L. Smith Directs a Hollywood Music Concert with MYSO on March 21, 2026
What if a young musician in our community could experience what it’s like to record music on a Hollywood recording stage? This month, 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.
“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.”
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After a Hollywood-style recording session, MYSO will perform an evening of Blockbuster hits directed by this award-winning composer and Grammy-performing musician.The public performance will include music from Titanic, Wicked, Pirates of the Caribbean, Gladiator, How to Train Your Dragon and more.
“Playing in MYSO was truly life-changing for me. I discovered a world of symphonic music that opened the door to my career as both a composer and orchestral musician,” says Smith. “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.”
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MYSO’s “From MYSO to Hollywood and Back” public concert is on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 6:30pm in the Fine Arts Auditorium at Joliet Junior College (1215 Houbolt Rd, Building K, Joliet). General admission is $20 online or at the door. Concert details can be found at www.mysomusic.org.
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.
