“Dream my own dream.” An easy thing to say, but a courageous thing to achieve!  At first, this dream was nothing but an envious thought.  Now, at 14, I can see my steady footprints leading to that dream: to be a symphony
musician. 

       It all started with a family ritual.  Every New Year’s Day, my family would watch the Vienna Philharmonic in “New Year’s Day from Vienna” concert.  My heart would dance with joy and float above a far-away place called Danube River.  I thought, maybe one day, I’ll play in that orchestra!

         In third grade, I started French horn lessons.  By sixth grade, I had “mastered” the horn enough to play in a community orchestra, called the Summer Symphony.  It was all made up of volunteers.  That was my first
experience of playing in a symphony orchestra, and I loved every minute of it.  Playing the pieces that I had heard so many times on CDs was such a joy!  The concerts we gave were all free.  Many old people, as well as classical music lovers of all ages came.  They were very thankful to the
Summer Symphony for our free concerts.  I felt so  ortunate to be able to express myself and bring others happiness through music.

        As I grew older, I became aware of an alarming fact: classical music is fast disappearing in this modern world. Beethoven once said, “I believe that music can change the world.” I agree with him.  In fact, Beethoven did
change the world.  His music touched so many people’s hearts and gave them courage.  Since classical music isn’t nearly as popular as before, I tried to spread it. Music is something that is always there for me. If I’m down,
it will make me feel better about life.  Maybe if more people understand classical music, they will have one more thing to hold on to, one more thing to dream about, and maybe, just maybe, they will never go into drugs or
commit suicide.  Part of the reason why I want to become a symphony musician is that I want to continue Beethoven’s mission, to spread classical music and enrich people’s souls, or just bring them pure joy.

        Music opened up my heart and soul.  I think an amazing future is ahead of me.  I’m young, I’m passionate, and I know I can achieve my dream.