NPR’s Hit Show FROM THE TOP SEEKS YOUNG, MILITARY-Connected Classical musicians

For Immediate Release December 15, 2011 NPR’s Hit Show FROM THE TOP SEEKS YOUNG, MILITARY-Connected Classical musicians The Military Child Education Coalition and From the Top with host Christopher O’Riley, the hit NPR radio program showcasing America’s best young classical musicians, is seeking young musicians with military parents who are Active Duty, National Guard, Reserves or post 9-11 Veterans for its live show recording on June 27, 2012 at The Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, Texas. The weekly hour-long radio program is heard on more than 200 stations nationwide. The show will be presented by the Military Child Education Coalition at its National Conference. From the Top’s 2011-12 National Tour is sponsored by U.S. Trust, Bank of America Private Wealth Management. From the Top welcomes audition entries from young classical musicians with military parents, ages 8 to 18 who have not graduated from high school. Solo performers on all instruments, composers and vocalists, as well as instrumental or vocal ensembles are welcome. In addition to seeking talent for its upcoming live concert in Grapevine, Texas, the program seeks young musicians for other concerts that are part of its national tour on a rolling admissions basis. From the Top’s variety show format features serious musical performances and lively interviews with some of the country’s best pre-collegiate performers. This unique blend of music, talk and humor draws nearly 700,000 loyal listeners each week. After every live concert recording, performers are invited to share their music, experiences, and related passions with their peers in schools and/or a variety of community settings through From the Top’s Arts Leadership program. Of the more than 100 musicians chosen to appear on the radio program every year, approximately 20 will receive Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Awards in support of furthering their musical education. These up to $10,000 scholarships are given to deserving young classical musicians between the ages of 8-18 who have high levels of artistic achievement, demonstrated financial need, and a solid academic record. Application and scholarship information is available online at www.fromthetop.org <blockedhttp://www.fromthetop.org/> or www.militarychild.org <blockedhttp://www.militarychild.org/> . Applications and recorded auditions are accepted continuously and on a rolling admissions basis. ##