Gifford Youth Orchestra: A classical success story

The sparkling eyes of the children who serenaded guests with assorted stringed instruments outshined even the twinkling lights strewn throughout the beautiful grounds of the Garden Club of Indian River County at a recent fundraiser to benefit the Gifford Youth Orchestra.

“We celebrated our 15th anniversary last month,” said Crystal Bujol, GYO founder and artistic director. “We found that young children in Gifford had little access to music and were often overlooked because they didn’t have artist and cultural opportunities in their early school years. It wasn’t until high school that they had an opportunity to learn to play an instrument.”

That has all changed. GYO students ranging in age from 4 to 18 currently relish the opportunity to learn how to play classical music. Students are asked to pay a small monthly fee, but their instruments, instruction and sheet music are all provided through generous donations from the community. “We have learned from experience that music enriches lives,” said Bujol. “Literally 100 percent of our students who have graduated high school are either in college or have graduated from college.”

It was those statistics that enticed beloved community activist Alma Lee Loy to join the leadership of the GYO.

“I saw them perform a few times and I was very impressed with their grace and professionalism,” said Loy. “There is such talent in this room, and I believe the gift of music is a gift of life.”

The nonprofit performing arts organization teaches children to play the violin, viola, cello and piano, while also imparting how to use their voices to”Build Bridges for Better Tomorrows.” The orchestra presents at least one concert each year, and smaller groups of students are often invited to play at special events.

“Music is a universal language that unlocks countless opportunities,” explained John Young, GYO board chairman. “The children learn so much more than just how to play an instrument. They learn social skills that enable them to perform in front of large audiences at banquets and celebrations and on stage.”

He added that they also learn that they can benefit financially from the efforts they put forth.

“The children here tonight will receive a small portion of the funds raised as payment for their service,” said Young. “This builds self-esteem and self-reliance.”

In addition to great music, guests at the event enjoyed conversing with the young musical stars, who not only filled the air with sweet melody but also answered questions with poise and confidence.

When asked what she liked best about playing with the orchestra, 8-year-old DeAnna Henderson, who has been playing the violin for two months, grinned and said, “I love making music and seeing people smile.”

Photos by: Leigh Green
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