I can’t believe the 2018 Summer Symposium is coming to a close. I was so lucky to have the opportunity to speak with parents before their session at 8:15 and it was overwhelmingly heartwarming to hear them talk about the impact this camp had on their students before they had even seen any of the final performances.

To the students, thank you for your time with us. I have loved the opportunity to tell your stories and I can’t wait to continue to do so once we’re all back home. To the faculty, thank you for bringing this camp to life and providing truly positive, life-changing experiences for our campers. They and I cannot thank you enough. To the parents, thank you for allowing your student to come take part in something really special. I have seen, first hand, the power and impact this has on our young musicians. They are going to take what they have learned here and become truly unstoppable once they get home and apply their wealth of knowledge and fire back to their programs. I can’t wait to see many of them and you in the fall for Bands of America.

It has been an honor and a privilege to share my experiences alongside the campers. I don’t know about you, but I’m already looking forward to next year!