An experience they will long remember...

Before the John Pizzarelli Quartet concert and during intermission, some wonderful students and faculty from the Joy of Music Program (JOMP) played in the lobby and Washburn Hall. I can't even begin to describe how magical it was walking into Mechanics Hall with young musicians playing as I entered. We received a lovely note from Wendy Ardizonne at JOMP today and I would like to share part of it with you:

What a wonderful opportunity you gave our students on Saturday night! They were truly honored to greet the John Pizzarelli audience with music as they entered Mechanics Hall and to play for the reception during intermission...Involving young musicians in this way is fantastic! It affirms that their love for music and their dedication to preparing music to share with others is valued and recognized. My heartfelt thanks for giving them an experience they will long remember.

This note confirms the important role that music can play in the lives of our youth. When these students play, they feel "valued" and recognized." These students are dedicated to preparing music - they are setting goals and following through with them. Whether or not these students continue playing music when they grow up, they are learning valuable life skills through their music studies, they are gaining confidence in themselves as individuals, and they are discovering role models and gaining new experiences by attending concerts. Music has the power to change lives!