Hey there! I wanted to share my journey to Interlochen, a chance that could really change my life as a composer and musician. I am Brett. I am 14 years old.

Interlochen is a prestigious private high school that will teach me about music composition and enhance my skills on the alto saxophone and piano. Your support, no matter how small, would make a huge difference for me and my mom during this tough time. If you could click the link below to donate or share it with others, I’d be so grateful! I was accepted into Interlochen.

The deposit is due on my birthday, 1/15

Interlochen alumni include: Jewel, Norah Jones, Meredith Ann Baxter, David Michael Burtka, Bruno Campos, Terry Crews, Tovah Feldshuh, Ana Gasteyer, Vince Gilligan, Kimiko Glenn, Josh Groban, Ed Helms, Yo-yo Ma, Chris Brubeck… and many, many others.

Interlochen alumni have won 146 Grammy Awards, 32 Tony Awards, 26 Emmy Awards, 3 Academy Awards, 4 Pulitzer Prizes, and 14 MacArthur Genius Grants.

I began playing music at age 5. I wanted to learn piano. I spoke to my music teacher and arranged when I would receive lessons, how often, and how much. I came home with everything already in motion. After a while, my mom could no longer afford the lessons. From 6-10 years old, I got discouraged by the money and only played a little bit. In 2020, I was motivated again and began watching YouTube on how to teach myself piano.

I play alto saxophone and bassoon as well. I’ve been awarded a gold with distinction in every solo competition that I have done. In the last two years, I have been in marching band and started composing music. Our marching band was awarded a 2nd place at State Finals in 2023, and a 1st place in 2024 at State Finals. I have composed over 20 pieces and 12 alto saxophone solos.

I asked my mom if I could apply to Interlochen to pursue music further.

Throughout school, I’ve worked to maintain a straight A+ average. I know education is important to my growth.

The cost of Interlochen is $78,725, plus an Apple Laptop which can range from $1,000-2,000, and Books and Supplies are $1,300.

I was awarded scholarships based on merit in the amount of $7,500, financial aid program funding $2,500 and need-based aid $53,894. The remaining portion of enrollment costs is $14,831. The needed portion to make my dreams a reality is about $16,000

Truly, if anyone is willing to support my dream, we would be more than grateful. When I say it’s a dream come true… it’s a dream come true. Anything would help to make that dream happen.