Big Dreams. We all have them, and I think a lot of us have those really big dreams that we don’t share with too many people because they seem lofty and unattainable. I wonder sometimes if God gives us those dreams - the giant ones - to keep our faith in Him and not in ourselves. Today I want to share as a mom who is helping her son pursue his big dreams - his God-sized dreams!
I touched briefly on our oldest son’s love of music, particularly the piano, in another post. I shared a little of his desire to pursue music and my hope that someday I would see him on a stage doing what he loves to do!
This year he has auditioned for several different programs and summer music programs. His dream is to go to one of the best conservatories and study music. He has been accepted to a stellar music program for the summer, and it will certainly be a step in that direction. I’d like to share his story with you, in hopes that you will pray for him, and for us, as we pursue his big dreams!
From my son -
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My name is Isaac and I am 14 years old - soon turning 15. I have been playing the piano for 7 years now. For the past 12 months or so, I have decided to be even more diligent in my piano studies, practicing for longer hours – averaging 4 hours a day, spending time in areas where I struggle, and learning as much as I can.
In addition to the hours I spend working on perfecting my piano playing, I also carry a full course load in my studies and maintain strong grades. I work at an advanced level and will graduate early from my high school. I also volunteer in a reading program through the school, helping struggling readers. If you are able to read, then the whole world is open to you.
This summer I have the distinct privilege of attending the Luzerne Music Center in New York. I will get to study with pianists from some of the best music schools. Members of The Philadelphia Orchestra will be in residence near Luzerne and we will get to work with them also.
My goal for my music is to become a concert pianist. And while I hope to travel and share amazing music with the world, my true goal is deeper than that.
There are many schools in the United States that are cutting out music programs due to lack of funding. I hope to be able to take music back to some of these schools, to inspire passion and love for music in students who don’t have the same access to music as I am fortunate to have.
But all of that is secondary to my hope to share the love of God with people. It’s my desire to use the gifts that God has given me in a manner that will help others come to know Him as well. He has blessed me with this musical ability. My family and my piano teacher have been so dedicated to my studies, to making sure I have the music I need, to purchasing a piano that is suited to my skill level, and to helping me apply to various competitions and programs that will further my skills.
I would like to be able to raise some of the money to attend the Luzerne Music Center this summer. The goal we set is $3,000, which is a little over half of what I’ll need. The program I’m attending is 4 weeks long. The money raised will go directly to my tuition for this program. Any extra that may come in will go toward the tuition or be set aside for future musical pursuits – whether it’s a precollege program next year, or a competition, or new music that I may need.
If you can’t give financially, that is okay. I’d be honored if you’d pray for me this summer, that I would learn all I can, and that this would be a valuable experience for me!
Thank you for your consideration in supporting me financially. I promise to be diligent in my studies and to remember that I am not doing this on my own, but that you are partnering with me.
“Put all your soul into it, play the way you feel.”-Chopin
2 Timothy 2:15-Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.
Here is a video that I used for the application to Luzerne. The song is Chopin’s Nocturne in E flat major, Opus 9, Number 2.
You’ll find me on Facebook , if you’re interested in keeping up with my music.
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Yes, we are extremely proud of Isaac - he’s always had a good head on his shoulders, and is diligent in all his efforts.
Yes, he is young and has many years ahead of him, but he is passionate about music and about pursuing opportunities to follow the path he believes God has for him (and we agree).
We would covet your prayers for this summer, but also for his continued growth and development as a pianist.
There is a page for donations, yes, and we’ll share it.
But, I hope you know, after all the days of heart sharing here, that prayer is the most important thing. We have prayed over this decision with Isaac, and have pursued this option (among others) at the encouragement of, and with the support of his school staff and current piano teacher. We are so excited to see what God has planned for him!
Thank you for extending grace to share this exciting opportunity with you!
(And here is the link for donations - click here).
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