A Ninth Grader's Music Love Story


I am a young, deeply passionate musician aspiring to become a professional violinist, and composer. To give you a snapshot of my background, I’ve always dreamed of playing the violin for as long as I can remember, and was given the opportunity at school in the Instrumental Music Program through the Colorado Chamber Orchestra (CCO) in my 4th grade year. Playing and learning music came naturally to me, so at age ten, I taught myself how to play my sister’s viola, and later picked up the cello and the piano. From early on, I heard music in my head, so I created my own staff paper and wrote out music notes with a marker before I knew anything about composition music programs.  With the encouragement of Thomas Blomster, the director of the Douglas County Youth Orchestra, I wrote my very first symphonic piece. I titled the piece Once Upon A Time, written for DCYO and for the Colorado Chamber Orchestra’s Save The Music fundraiser, at age 11. I am currently competing in national composition competitions and local solo violin competitions, which I very much enjoy. I also enjoy giving back to the community by playing annually at CCO’s Save The Music fundraiser and by subbing/student teaching for the school orchestra.

This year, as a ninth grader, I have been accepted into the Denver Young Artists Orchestra which is an affiliate of the Colorado Symphony.  Being a member of DYAO, we have the opportunity to represent our country by touring Central Europe this summer and  to perform in historic concert halls such as the Great Hall of the Mozarteum and Dvorak Hall.  

In order to participate in this life changing musical and educational opportunity, each student needs to pay their portion of $4,500 which is due in March.  Additionally, I have been encouraged to upgrade my violin, not only for this extraordinary orchestra, but to succeed at a higher level with solo competitions and performances which ultimately will help me build a strong resume for my career.  With much advice, I have found the perfect violin to carry me through what I believe the rest of my life.  The cost of this violin is $15K and my payments begin next month (January 2019).  I realize, this is a lot of money to ask for help with, so I am putting on an hour long performance and contributing my earnings from my part-time job of teaching violin & viola lessons.  For those unable to attend I would be happy to send you a recording of the performance.

I have to admit, asking for financial help from family, friends and strangers is a little scary and definitely awkward.  I come from a proud and hard working family, and this does not come natural to my parents or to me.  I promise you, I am working very hard and doing my best to succeed in my music.

Please consider making a donation to help me rise in my career.  To attend my performance (March 31st , 4:00pm, Castle Rock, CO) and/or order a recording,  please RSVP [email redacted] the number of people that are going to attend, or the email to send the recording to.  Suggested ticket & recording donations are $15.

I appreciate you taking the time to read this.

With gratefulness,

-Emma

PS I hope you enjoy one of my compositions, Dance of the Sun.  I currently have it submitted to a national competion, so for the time being, I only have a recording in digital form.  

Please enjoy!  :)