George Eychner introduced the Hill Country Youth Orchestra, which is the nation's only tuition free youth orchestra. Our Rotary Club has supported the club in the past by donating money for the purchase of instruments and performance attire. The HCYO has been in existence for 37 years, and has taught over 2,000 students in that time. It introduces string instruments to kids that might not otherwise have the opportunity to learn about them. The HCYO is 100% funded by grants, annual fund raising and private donations.
 
 
Teresa Britt is an instructor for HCYO, as well as a fiddler, violinist and singer with several groups in the hill country. She has also performed in numerous ensembles and orchestras in Texas. 
 
We heard some great performances by students Jude Parker and Natalie McDonald.
 
 
 
 
Natalie also gave a testimonial on how she became involved in the Hill Country Youth Orchestra, and how she has benefitted from the program.
 
 
Former Rotarian Greg Shrader  explained more about the program. Three churches in the hill country provide instruction and performance space for the students, in Kerrville, Boerne and Fredericksburg. The biggest fund raiser is a show put on by Robert Earl Keen each year at the Cailloux Theater. The upcoming show is sold out, but there is also a benefit golf tournament coming up on March 19 at Riverhill Country Club.
 
 
 
 
 
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