New Era Impacts the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestras
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Aidan Beck started playing the bass clarinet in seventh grade for the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestras. But that was not what he 
really wanted to do.
“The ISYO gave him the confidence and passion to pursue the instrument he really loves – the bassoon,” said his mother, Traci. Aidan is now the principal bassoon in the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestras.
The Auburn High School student also performs in his high school band and was selected to perform with the ILMEA All-State Honor Band.
“He is fortunate to have a wonderful band director, Bekah Philbrick. She encourages and supports her students to explore as many music opportunities as possible,” Ms. Beck said. “ISYO has allowed Aidan to have a more comprehensive music experience than a small school can offer, giving him the confidence to perform at a higher level.”
Aiden is just one of the many students who are reaching new musical heights due to their participation in the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestras. From this experience, parents see increased confidence in their child, a desire to meet new challenges, and improved grades in school.
Thanks to donors like YOU, the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestras continue to grow while providing engaging musical opportunities for future musicians and supporters.
We hope you will consider becoming a donor or increasing your current annual donation so we can continue creating exceptional music experiences for all! And we are excited that you will double your impact, as a generous donor will match up to $100,000 for every new or increased gift before December 31st in our New Era Challenge!
To donate to the New Era Challenge, click the button below:
Through sponsor partnerships and donations, the Illinois Symphony Orchestra provides tuition and instrument rental assistance for students in need.
Eight-year-old Samuel Kerr says, “playing the violin helps me focus and makes me smarter.” According to his mother, Emily Smith, “Of course, this idea has been planted and encouraged by his instructor, Kamen Petkov!”
Samuel and his sister Daisy, also a violinist, enjoy performing at home for their parents. “This brings us so much joy,” said Ms. Smith.
The experience students gain in the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestras will be felt for years and decades to come. Your gift will provide the future generation of musicians and music lovers with the help they need today. Please join us in this New Era!
