Matthew Ortega had never had a private violin lesson. As a first-generation Colombian-American from a low-income family, instruments were a luxury beyond reach.
In 11th grade, pure grit and raw talent earned him a spot in our violin section. No private lessons. No expensive equipment. Just determination.
Two years later, Matthew performed at Carnegie Hall for our 50th Anniversary. But that wasn't the moment that changed everything...
When Matthew was presented a New York Big Apple Music Festival certificate of participation, his mother—who had sacrificed everything as an immigrant who didn't speak the language—cried tears of joy like he'd never seen. It was one of the happiest moments of her life.
Dr. Ma's mentorship and recommendation letter helped this first-generation student earn a FULL scholarship to Emory University. Today, Matthew says: "Everything I have pursued connects back to the foundation I built at COS."
We reach out to young musicians of all levels with 'fire in the belly' and limited financial means through scholarships. Your support enables COS to fulfill its mission - to nurture children through the gentle and firm guidance of our faculty.
Dr. Yeou-Cheng Ma
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