"Being part of the Mary Summer Strings Academy through the Treasure Coast Youth Symphony has shaped who I am today both as a musician and as a person. For the three years I've been involved, this program has been a constant source of growth, support, and motivation, and I truly would not be where I am without it. The Summer Strings Academy pushed me to become a stronger musician. I improved my sight-reading skills, learned how to play confidently in an ensemble, and grew into leadership roles in the community. Being surrounded by other dedicated musicians taught me how to listen, support others, and lead by example. Over time, I started to put in more and more work so I could be an example to the younger students in the camp. Because of what I learned in this program, it helped me become a first violin in the Treasure Coast Youth Symphony, an NHS IRSC Honors Society student and even a violin teacher at Key To Music. The discipline, confidence, and teamwork I developed through Summer Strings carried into my academics and my everyday life. Mary's Giving Fund makes experiences like this possible for students who might not otherwise have access to them. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity, because it didn't just help me continue playing music, it helped shape me into the young woman I am today."

-- Mia Bella Reichenbach, Mary's Summer Strings Academy Student