Carlos Cruz-Taura is a cellist in the Greater-Miami Youth Symphony. The 14-year-old says playing music makes him "happy," and he wants everyone to feel that way, including the students who can no longer afford it.
"Especially this year because of economic troubles a lot of families haven't been able to pay orchestra dues," said Cruz-Taura.
So the talented 9th grader did something about it. He created the community challenge---a fundraiser where Carlos and his fellow young musicians commit to practice an hour for every dollar donated.
"We thought it was a great idea, especially exciting because it came from a student," said Melissa Lesniak, the Greater-Miami Youth Symphony's Executive Director.
Lesniak also said that students raise money for trips all the time, but never has a student dedicated himself to helping others the way Carlos has.
"I'm really happy," said Carlos' mom Ana Cruz-Taura. "He was very excited to get others to send out letters, knowing it'll help them feel good too."
Carlos has a sheet where he tracks his donations. He pledged to practice 192 hours, so he could raise $192. But in just a few months, he raised more than $600.
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"We can buy a few instruments for that...or a couple of scholarships for financially needy students," said Lesniak.
In 50 years, the Greater-Miami Youth Symphony has never turned away a child, and thanks to Carlos' community challenge, they hope to keep it that way.
"There's people who could've been amazing cellists or a pianist," said Carlos. "But if they don't get a chance to be in an orchestra or lessons, you won't ever know."
