Scholarship Student Comments
Hannah L. Eschelbach (7th grade Barre City Middle School) writes: "I am a seventh grade clarinetist, and I am in both my school band and the Green Mountain Youth Symphony. I am a talented and devoted musician, but my interests also include art and reading. I hope that I can be a professional clarinetist and play jazz or classical music. My favorite performer is Benny Goodman, who lived in the 1930's. I also like the Boston Pops Orchestra. There are many people I would like to thank for supporting me as a clarinetist: Bill Steinhurst for the scholarship money, Sarah Helman for all her encouragement, and Robert Blais, artistic director of the Green Mountain Youth Symphony. I hope this essay will help you get to know me better. I love music!"
Emma Jolley (6th grade at Barre City Elementary School) writes: "I love music of all kinds. My free time is often spent listening to the radio or music on the internet. I have been playing the flute for two years and I love it. I spend a lot of time with my family, sometimes too much! But, it's cool when we go camping or hang out with everyone all together for a birthday or holiday. Some of my favorite performers are Brono Mars, Script and James Blunt. My goals for the future are to be able to join the Vermont Symphony Orchestra (for youth) and eventually be a cosmetologist or a photographer. I spend lots of time at my church, doing youth activities, service projects or music. My Mom, sister & I are preparing to do a musical number with me playing my flute."
Julian Soberano (12th grade Twinfield Union School) writes: "I am a soon to be a senior at Twinfield Union School, and I am primarily focussed on my study of the guitar. I have some background in drums and piano, but my passion for the guitar has made it my most important instrument. Music (jazz especially) is something that I will carry with me throughout my whole life, whether as a source of income or simply as a hobby, and is an activity that I know will always bring enjoyment to me in my life. I come from a more needy economic background, so taking part in workshops, camps, and lessions can be a stretch for us. An opportunity for support like this scholarship gives would be hard to pass up, and I am deeply greatful for this generosity! Thank you!"
Ruby LaBrusciano-Carris (11th grade Twinfield Union School) writes: "Music in particular is a huge part of my life, both to make and to be heard. I discovered clarinet in fourth grade, and since then have branched out to also play saxophone and join the school chorus as an alto singer, as well as attend various music festivals. Playing music in school helps me get through the day when i struggle academically, but it is also important to me outside of school. This summer for example, I'm so excited for the opportunity to work with other singers and accomplished teachers from Village Harmony, its going to be a life-changing experience."
Lynne McConnell (11th grade U-32 High School) writes: "My main interest is playing the violin. I am currently working on the Mendelssohn violin concerto in E minor. I hope to be able to do a double or joint major in biology and music. My favorite performer and violinist is Anne-Sophie Mutter. She has been an inspiration to me since I heard her play the Mendelssohn concerto a few years ago."
Kasey Donna (10th grade U-32 High School): "I love music; listening, playing, learning, and exploring. I love all types of music. Some of my favorite performers range from Wailin' Jennings to the Avett Brothers, Ray Lamontagne and Fat Freddy's Drop. I play the string bass and cello in orchestra and have also taught myself to play the piano and guitar. I would love to study music in college, and some day teach and introduce music to the youth, maybe the youth of other, less fortunate countries."
Anna Abrams (10th grade Montpelier High School): "I love to sing and I've been singing since I was five. Singing is something I hope to continue to do all my live, whether it be in a community choir, a professional choir, or on stage. I really hope to sing in acapella groups in college also. For high school, my goal is to get into the All New England's Music Festival, and my voice teacher is helping me reach that goal."