His submission featured him teaching neighbors how to play Let Music Fill My World on the Otamatone (yes, that quirky little instrument!), showing how music teachers can spark joy, connection, and confidence in any community.
He used his $10,000 prize to support his cross-country team’s “Donut Dash,” a 5K fundraiser that raised $2,000 this year for a Boys & Girls Club arts program, with remaining funds also helping build sustainable support for future events. He has also been selected for Carnegie Hall’s 2024 National Youth Orchestra 2 summer program, and received a scholarship from the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation.
As part of his award, Ramon helped select Rochester Public Schools’ Alternative Learning Center, which is now working to hire a full-time music teacher to serve students in both its day and evening programs.
