Hello! My name is Omar Williams and I'm the Board Chair for the Empire State Youth Orchestra.

More importantly I'm a teacher, a musician, and a proud alumus of ESYO (1999-2004.) ESYO had a profound impact on my development and helped catapult me into my career. I has spend more than half my life either in or serving that organization. It has supported me and I do all I can to return the rewards I gained through the ESYO experience.

I'm asking you to join me today in supporting these fantastic student musicians with a donation to ESYO. And be sure to stop by Crossgates Mall on Saturday, March 23rd to see EVERY ESYO ensemble perform live!

Thank you for your help with this most worthy organization.

~Omar

🎶 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!