Play it Forward String Ensemble

The MISSION of Play It Forward is to:

Create opportunities for students from all backgrounds to learn a stringed instrument.

Play It Forward is a stringed instrument education program for the serious music student that has the intention of making music and performance a major part of their life, if not their profession. The string ensemble is not affiliated with any school system or program (public or private).

Ensemble practice fees will be$40 per month due on the 15th of each month. (Sept through May)

Private lesson fees vary with the teacher. They are typically $35 for a ½-hour lesson. Payment methods for private lessons will be arranged with the student’s teacher. Cancellation of a lesson must be given at least 24 hours advance notice.

Introduction

Play It Forward music teachers devote their time to two important causes:

• Helping students make music an enriching part of their lives

• Advancing the art of music in the community

• Our experienced team brings skill and passion to every project, no matter the size.

Instruction

Play It Forward music teachers emphasize:

• Stringed instrument technique (posture, instrument position, left hand and right-hand positions, bow grip and bowing skills)

• Basics of musicianship (rhythm, pitch, music notation literacy, basic music theory)

• Stringed instrument care.

Intentions

Students as part of Play It Forward are expected to:

1. Participate in the group ensemble

2. Take private lessons

3. Be responsible for acquiring their own music accessories and instructional material.

Instruments and Bows –The Becker Family Foundation lends instruments with incredible sound qualities to Play It Forward participants (depends on availability). The students are trained to properly care for their equipment. There are limited scholarships available which are awarded on a case by case basis.

At Becker Family Foundation, we are committed to fostering a passion for music in students of all ages and skill levels. Our comprehensive programs are designed to develop technical proficiency, musicality, and confidence through personalized instruction. We pride ourselves on providing a supportive environment where students can thrive and explore their creative potential. Our experienced faculty are dedicated to guiding you every step of the way. Join us to embark on a rewarding musical journey that lasts a lifetime.

“PLAY IT FORWARD”

String Ensemble Players

Written by Carol Jeanne Henderson

This is the Second Annual Spring Concert by the students of the Play It Forward program!

We are proud to present to you these young string players who are benefiting from the use of instruments on loan from The Becker Family Foundation.

We are especially proud of the way that these young folks have contributed their talents during this challenging time of unprecedented circumstances.

We are looking forward to a time when we will play, sing, rehearse, practice, and perform together---in our homes, in our towns, in our cities, around our country-sides, on the streets, in our churches and on stages, both here in the United States and around the world.

PLAY IT FORWARD is there to support teachers, students, and parents, by allowing the students the use of quality stringed instruments while learning to play and to experience the joy of music.

Please support the musicians of tomorrow by supporting this vision of The Becker Family Foundation by PLAYING IT FORWARD for the future of music.

VIOLINS:

Seth Beebe, Henry Brazell,

Adelle Breedlove, Eliana Bette Garnica,

Eleanor Graham, Henry Graham,

Trevor Graham, Tru Green,

Taj Green, Alexis Luz,

Matthew Luz, Jessee McCormack

VIOLAS:

Zane Beebe, Samuel Luz,

Elias Garnica, Kayla Zakrzewski,

Kristi Zakrzewski

CELLOS:

Noe Garnica, Tabitha Green,

Aaron Luz, Cindy Slominski

BASS:

Ethan Beebe

Sincere thanks to all that have contributed toward the Play It Forward string ensemble expenses during this challenging season. There are so many great needs right now and we appreciate your assistance with ours.

Special thanks to:

Doni and David Jordan for their generous donation of “The Becker Family Foundation Young Musician Award”
The parents for assisting with two successful fundraising campaigns, and their dedication and extra efforts in the education process.
Our incredible students - for providing a dose of reality twice a week and the joy of watching them grow as musicians
Jonathan Toben - providing free online cello lessons to students during this season
Kasey Schroer - editor of the Winter and Spring Newsletter, and social media work
Christopher Kochan - for his assistance with the website

Instrument Donations:

Michael Upton
Carl Becker and Son, Ltd.
Paul Becker Violins, Inc.
Jennifer Becker Violins