Readers: Can You Help Some Teen Musicians Make Joyful Noises?

I have written before about the wonderful chamber music orchestra that our older son is privileged to be part of. This eclectic group of musicians, called Stretto Youth Chamber Orchestra, is gathered together by the amazing Sherri Anderson, a joy-filled Christian whose life's mission is to bring music to everyone. Her musicians come from an extraordinary  range of settings - from boarding schools to homeless shelters and foster homes.

I don't think I've ever asked my readers to consider making a tax-deductible contribution to a worthy cause, but I am asking you now.

In about a month, most of the orchestra is flying to Europe for a tour. Their itinerary includes Brussels, Cologne, Sofia and Belgrade. For some of the musicians, heading to Europe is no big deal; there is plenty of room in the family budget.

For others, it is a bit of a stretch to finance this. And for some, it is impossible.

Sherri shared this with me today:  "Allison, you know I believe the spirit moves and welcomes all the grace of everyday...of which there seems to be an abundance. Thanks for all your support in both the visible and quiet ways. We share the joy. You know what C. said at the last fundraiser when asked why the music was important to him. He said, "Because you can bring people joy!" It wasn't about him, it was about what he could share. These young ones teach us so much."

Families have been hosting fundraisers all year to make sure every musician who wants to go, can go.

The musicians are about $2,500 short right now. If you are interested in making a tax-deductible contribution to the orchestra you can use the paypal button at http://bluemountainfestival.org/. Even a donation as small as $20 will help us reach our goal. Whether you can donate or not, please take a listen as the orchestra plays Vivaldi's Cum Sancto Spiritu!