Chloe and Caleb are twins, aged 17. She’s a drummer. He plays bass. They are the first JoMS kids to attend the Berklee College of Music’s Five-Week Summer Experience, an international gathering of young people to make music and develop talent in Boston. The pair auditioned via video, and were awarded tuition scholarships totaling $11,000. Room, board, and travel were covered jointly by the Youth Endowment Fund of the East Tennessee Foundation, and JoMS donors. Chloe texted, “I am in three rock ensembles where I learn songs over the five weeks for our final performances. I have become close friends with another drummer from California and we have been exploring Boston in our free time.”

She and her brother weren’t the only JoMS students trekking 925 miles from Knoxville to Boston this summer. Tevan, 18, a bass-trombonist, was accepted to the John Philip Sousa National High School Honors Band after a nationwide competitive audition. The band performed in Boston’s Faneuil Hall, and was conducted by Col. Jason Fettig, director of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band. “Colonel Fettig was amazing – the best experience with a conductor I’ve had,” reports Tevan. “Boston is a beautiful city and has so much historical importance. The acoustics in Faneuil Hall were amazing!” Again, the Youth Endowment Fund and JoMS donors picked up all fees, travel and lodging for Tevan.

We are so proud of everyone, including the East Tennessee Foundation, and our donors—but especially these kids.

 

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