Neighbor News
Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras Receives $75,000 Gift
The gift from Daniel E. Offutt III Charitable Trust will support music education programs for students in under-resourced communities.
January 20, 2020—Fairfield, Conn.— Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras is thrilled to announce that it has received a $75,000 gift from the Daniel E. Offutt, III Charitable Trust for the purpose of funding community outreach programs for music education.
Mr. Offutt was a self-taught artist, investor and philanthropist who lived and worked at his Weston farm. His trust has provided charitable funding for nonprofits throughout the local area.
“This grant from the Offutt Trust will allow us to realize a longtime goal of being able to give back to the community by providing free music lessons to students who might not otherwise have access,” said Christopher Hisey, Music Director of GCTYO and the Community Outreach Program Director. A pilot program was launched this season with 12 students from Assumption School in Fairfield, and a new partner will be added for the 2020-21 season. In addition to professional music educators leading instruction, student volunteers from GCTYO’s most advanced orchestra groups provide instructional and social support to students in the program.
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Richard Orenstein, Trustee of the Offutt Trust, said, “As Trustee, I’m delighted to foster further music education in the area. Dan always supported further development of our younger folks in many disciplines, everything from music to carpentry.”
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Find out what's happening in Fairfieldfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
ABOUT GCTYO:
Founded in 1961, Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras has grown from one orchestra to ten distinct ensembles, including classical, jazz, wind, percussion and string orchestras. GCTYO’s developmentally progressive program gives musicians the opportunity to play at their highest level in a supportive and inclusive environment. All GCTYO orchestras are led by music educators who also perform professionally.
GCTYO’s 350 members in grades 5-12 come from 30 communities all over Connecticut. Saturday mornings from September through May, these young people come together for music, enjoyment, community and learning. Through rehearsals and formal performances, young musicians gain valuable experience and an important sense of achievement and self-confidence, while fostering lifelong friendships and a love of music.
