Being a part of the Phil Ramone Orchestra for Children made me understand what it means to work in a team and the value of being with an amazing staff that is well rounded in the music industry. The program demonstrated that our passions can be turned into careers. The program has definitely shaped me as an individual. I joined the program and continued to be in the program through some of my toughest years. Being invested in music was very therapeutic and valuable environment to be in.

Former Ramone student Xcaret Currently: Freshman, Fashion Institute Technology

“Being in The Phil Ramone Orchestra for Children not only gave me a love for music, but developed another family for me away from home. Before the Orchestra, I found it really hard to focus in school. The Orchestra helped me tremendously to focus more. I have learned to play the acoustic guitar thanks to the Orchestra and I now continue to play the acoustic guitar at my new school in Jazz band & have been asked to be the schools’ bass player for the high school band. I also started to teach the basics of guitar to my little brother this summer. I’m very grateful for the opportunity I was given by The Phil Ramone Orchestra for Children because without them I’m not sure I would have been where I am today.”

10th grader, Zaire

Anysia’s mother says, “If Anysia didn’t join the Phil Ramone Orchestra for Children, she wouldn’t either have her successful achievements or provide music services to our community.” Anysia has already performed Brahms Concerto No. 1 as the youngest Concert Master at the Lincoln Center. Performed Bach Concerto No. 1 as a youngest soloist of the Manhattan Symphonie at the Fox Plaza during the live morning news, ‘Fox & Friends’ Accepted into pre college program at the Mannes of Music Plays music every Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays in the evenings for parishioners in Harlem.

Anysia, age 9