Support Lucas Lauprasert's Viola Journey

My name is Lucas Lauprasert, and I am a passionate 18-year-old violist from Wilmington, DE with dreams of becoming a musician. I am reaching out to you for support on purchasing a professional viola, a key instrument that will enable me to advance in my musical journey.

Music has played an important role in my life. At an early age, it helped me learn how to speak. In fact, I learned to sing before I could speak. Then, at the age of 7 years old, I picked up a viola for the first time and it was love at first sight. I have been captivated by its rich, warm tones and its ability to convey deep emotions, ever since. Most important, it gave me a voice and it has allowed me to express myself freely in ways that verbalization is not cable of or falls short of.

Acquiring a high-quality viola would make a tremendous difference in my musical journey. The superior craftsmanship and sound quality of a professional instrument are essential for advanced repertoire. It will allow me to express myself more fully and connect with audiences on a deeper level. I am currently using a loaner from Settlement Music School that I will have to return soon. The cost of a professional viola is substantial. It can range from $20,000 to $50,000.

After extensive research and consulting with my private teacher, I have identified an instrument from Hiroshi Iizuka, a local luthier in Philadelphia, that would be perfect for me. Despite my best efforts to save and explore financial aid options, I am still short of $25,000. This is why I am turning to the kindness and generosity of people like you. Your contribution will directly have an impact on my ability to acquire this vital instrument and continue my musical journey.

Over the years, I have dedicated countless hours to practice, performed in various recitals and chamber groups. My journey has been of relentless dedication, marked by both triumphs and challenges. For the last 7 years, I have been studying with Shelley Beard-Santore at the Settlement Music School where I am a member of the Advanced Study Newman String Quartet coached by William Polk from the Philadelphia Orchestra. I am the Principal Violist of the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra (PYO) and I am a member of the Philadelphia Music Alliance for Youth (PMAY) Artists’ Initiative, a music pathways program that support students from diverse backgrounds like me. Recently, I have been offered the opportunity to continue my musical journey with Professor Victoria Chiang from Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University on a full scholarship.

I am incredibly grateful for any support you can provide, whether it’s a donation or simply sharing this campaign with others. Your generosity will help me achieve my dreams and bring beautiful music to life. Thank you for considering my request and for believing in the transformative power of music.

With heartfelt thanks,

Lucas Lauprasert