Giving Young Musicians the Chance to D.R.E.A.M.

D.R.E.A.M., which is an acronym for “Dare, Reach, And Encourage All with Music, is a program that provides private music lessons for talented music students at Seneca Ridge whose families might otherwise not be able to afford them.

The lessons are given at the school by professional musicians, military band members, and freelance musicians.

“I believe that there are three basic needs in the development of children in middle school,” said Philip, now in her sixth year at Seneca Ridge. “They are social support, intrinsic motivation, and self-efficacy. The D.R.E.A.M. Program successfully matches all these needs.”

An initial grant was awarded in the 2004-05 school year, and was augmented by fundraisers and donations. This year, the budget calls for $5,000, of which only $2,000 has been collected. “We are looking for organizations in the Loudoun community that would be interested in financially sponsoring individual students’ lessons or donating to the overall program,” said Philip. “Donations are tax deductible.”

The Sterling Rotary Club, which has supported the program in the past, presented Philip with a check for $500 at the conclusion of the meeting.

For more information on the D.R.E.A.M. Program, contact Philip at Laurel.Philip@loudounk12.va.us, or 571-434-4420.