Focus Funds Arts - PBS Wisconsin

98%

of Final Forte viewers rated the
program “very good” or
“excellent”

95%

of Quilt Show attendees would
recommend the event to friends
and family

86%

of Mile of Music viewers
discovered new music
and musicians

Data source: PBS Wisconsin 2024 performance program and event surveys (~1,500 responses)

Wisconsin’s artists nurture a chorus of creativity. Poets, artists, musicians and storytellers bring beauty and meaning to audiences across our state.

With your investment:

Wisconsin Life brings regular arts-themed stories to television and radio
Mile of Music showcases dozens of Wisconsin musicians and bands.
Young performers shine in Final Forte, created with WPR and the Madison Symphony Orchestra.
Classrooms discover music through Re/Sound, developed with the Wisconsin School Music Association.
Quilters earn recognition in the annual Great Wisconsin Quilt Show catalog.

74%

of viewers surveyed say Mile of Music encouraged them to attend the annual festival

Donors

A.C.V. and Mary Elston Family
A Paul Jones Charitable Trust
Julie & Larry Midtbo
Roger & Lynn VanVreede
Yvonne Vesely, in memory of Rudy Vesely
Helen L. Wineke

Your generosity lifts up Wisconsin artists whose creativity enriches our communities — and helps the next generation flourish.

Melinda MurphyDIRECTOR OF INDIVIDUAL & LEGACY GIVING

Discover how we work

PBS Wisconsin is our state’s largest stage. Together, we remove barriers so every Wisconsinite can enjoy the vibrancy of local arts — on television, online and in the community.

Looking ahead

Art connects us emotionally, culturally and across divides. With your support, we will continue to celebrate Wisconsin’s creativity and make the arts accessible to all.

92%

of viewers surveyed say our Mile of Music program was “very good” or “excellent.”

There is an amazing wealth of creativity and talent in all corners of Wisconsin. Thank you, Focus Fund donors, for making it possible for our crews to capture such wonderful performances and artistry. The arts are meant to be shared.

Deb PiperEXECUTIVE PRODUCER OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS, PBS WISCONSIN

Mile of Music explores how Appleton transforms College Avenue into a pop-up celebration of musical discovery and independent talent. Watch it here.

Music is a companion to everyone around the globe, and everyone can relate to it.

Lavanyaa SurrenderCLASSICAL INDIAN CARNATIC MUSIC AND KATHAK DANCE

High-class production with extremely talented young artists and orchestra. Few opportunities to experience this quality of music without PBS providing it.

Larry from SuamicoFinal Forte

All of the bands were fantastic! I’m going to be checking them out online!

Rachel from WestonMile of Music

I appreciate programs like this that help artists get a foot in the door so they can make more good music.

Kristy from ManitowocMile of Music

A great example for young musicians, showing what could be accomplished with desire, hard work, and support.

Sue from JanesvilleFinal Forte