A Violin of Hope: Help a Teacher keep Music Alive

Hi everyone! My name is Jorge Vera. It all began in my hometown Pirayú, a rural town where I took my first music lesson in a community school as part of a program called "Sonidos de la Tierra." The program's mission is to create better citizens by bringing music education to low-income families in rural areas of Paraguay. We were 40 students sharing just 9 violins, taking turns to play them. Classes were held only once a week, and without an instrument to practice at home, learning became challenging and the program began to stagnate. The program leaders then held a competition, selecting the best 9 students to match the number of available instruments. I was fortunate enough to make the cut and finally able to borrow a violin to take home and practice.

My mom often reminisces about how my favorite place to play violin was in the kitchen, where I would practice for hours despite knowing only one song. Most of my musical training focused on Paraguayan folklore, learning songs by ear in group lessons – quite different from the traditional individual instruction common in the United States.

Music transformed my life, bringing new friendships, opportunities to travel, and the thrill of performing on stage while hearing my family's encouragement. These experiences fueled my motivation to practice more, and over the years, my musicality improved even though my technical skills needed development. At 16, I asked my mom if I could travel to the capital for individual lessons to enhance my technique.

The new teacher's fees were challenging for my parents – my mother was a housewife and my father earned minimum wage. Neither of my parents completed elementary school, having left to help support their large families by working since childhood. This experience made them value education deeply, and they saved money to provide me with some lessons. I traveled nearly three hours each way for my one-hour class. Recognizing my potential, my teacher helped secure a scholarship so I could continue studying in the capital.

After two years of commuting to lessons and improving my technique, I gained the confidence to apply for a Music major after high school. During college, I felt compelled to help children in rural areas like myself who dreamed of playing music. Becoming a violin teacher meant they wouldn't have to travel long distances to receive music education.

I began this mission at 18, teaching violin in the countryside for four years. Nothing made me prouder than witnessing my students' progress and seeing how they appreciated not only the music but also the entire community's support. Watching parents beam with pride as their children performed like superstars filled me with hope. I still cherish those memories of helping a generation fall in love with music and witnessing its impact on their lives.

Seeking to become a better teacher, I applied to Carnegie Mellon University for my Master's degree. While I received a full tuition scholarship, I struggled to cover living expenses and health insurance. I organized fundraisers and sold personal items to raise enough money to attend CMU and move to the USA. Through it all, my friends, community, and family have sustained me during difficult times, and I remain deeply grateful for their support.

Upon arriving in the US with my $200 violin, I learned it didn't meet the program's standards. Given my financial situation, purchasing a professional instrument seemed impossible. Thanks to my professor and a generous donor, the department loaned me a violin for my studies. Throughout my graduate education, I've never owned my own instrument. While this arrangement has served me well, I now face a crucial transition.

Upon graduating from Carnegie Mellon University, I must return the borrowed violin and bow. I lie awake at night wondering how to afford an instrument, knowing that without one, I cannot begin my teaching career. Professional violins are expensive, and though my professor is helping me find an affordable option, it would still cost around $22,000. I must find a way to raise these funds before May 2025, and I hope that through the generosity of supporters, I can achieve this dream. Thank you for your support and help.

With deep gratitude,

Jorge Vera