Hi. My name is Jacob Hong. I am a cellist in the Strings orchestra for ESYO and I am in 6th grade. We are in the Playathon season and what we do each year is that every member of ESYO sets up a donation campaign for the program. Some amazing things that ESYO has done to me is helping me grow as a musician and making me feel comfortable playing with a group. Also, I make tons of friends. Finally, I will ask you to donate. If you do, a musician like me could have an amazing experience just like everyone else in ESYO. Even if you donate a little, every dollar counts. If you help me and ESYO donate, every musician could accomplish their dreams.

Thank you,

Jacob Hong

🎶 SUPPORT THE FUTURE OF MUSIC 🎶

Playathon is ESYO’s most important friend-raiser and fundraiser of the year! This fun-filled day of music raises money for ESYO while showcasing the breadth & depth of our program! This free, family event takes place on Saturday, March 23rd from 10:30am through 5:15pm at Crossgates Mall and showcases hundreds of young musicians. It's the only day of the year where all ESYO ensembles (including CHIME) perform—from the deep rumble of the percussion ensembles to the uplifting trills of the wind orchestra. The day also includes live auctions, including a chance to lead one of the ensembles!

The marathon display of musical talent is more than simply a community concert, it helps ESYO ensure no qualified musician is ever turned away from the ESYO Experience because of an inability to pay. Your support is needed now more than ever. The money raised will fund a substantial portion of ESYO’s operating expenses and musician scholarships.

Our Playathon fundraising goal for 2024 is $120,000. To reach our goal, we have challenged each ensemble, our board of directors, and our staff with their own fundraising goal. Help them get there by giving generously today!