Dear Friends & Family,

How time flies! This is my fourth year with the Empire State Youth Orchestra (ESYO), and music continues to play a large part in my life. This year, I am playing with the Symphony Orchestra. This is the largest ensemble of ESYO and it has provided me with further opportunities to learn and improve at a more advanced level. I love the challenge of playing more complex repertoire. I've been able to play complete symphonies for the first time and I am very excited to perform Shostakovich's Symphony No. 5 this spring-- a big undertaking for the entire orchestra. I have also been enjoying volunteering with Concertino Strings, the smaller string ensemble that first sparked my interest in orchestral music.

Once a year at Playathon, every musician is asked to raise money for their Orchestra, and that time is now. Our tuition only covers 40% of the cost of participation, and we have to make up the balance. So I am asking if you will please make a donation in my name to ESYO. This means a lot to me, and I really appreciate your (continued) support. The money raised will go to coaching, programming, scholarships (no one is turned away because they can't pay), and more. Music speaks to all, and the world needs music in this troubled time. Please help keep music alive!

Thank you so much in advance for considering a donation -- every bit counts! I appreciate it, and so does everyone at ESYO!

Musically yours,

Lyra Lenigk

🎶 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!