Hi, my name is Abishek Mugunthan — I’m a classically trained violinist, recent high school graduate, and incoming college freshman at the University of Virginia, where I’ll be studying both violin performance and engineering.

I’ve been playing violin for 6 years, and I’ve fallen in love with music — not just as an art form, but as a way to connect with people, express myself, and bring meaning to others. Music has helped me get through some of the most difficult challenges in life and has shaped who I am today.

But here’s the truth:

I’ve never owned my own violin.

I’ve been borrowing a school-owned instrument throughout high school, and as I graduate and move into college, I won’t have access to that anymore.

That’s why I’m here.

What I Need:

To continue pursuing music seriously in college and beyond, I need to purchase my own violin and bow — something that meets a higher professional standard and will carry me through four years of college and the start of my career.

Goal: $10,000

Already raised through other donors: $3,000

Remaining amount needed: $7,000

This amount will allow me to purchase a quality violin and bow that suits my level and long-term needs. I’m working with luthiers and teachers to find the right fit.

Why This Matters:

I recently got accepted to the Cleveland Institute of Music, but despite being honored, I had to turn it down because my family simply couldn’t afford the cost. We’re not in a financial position to support a $40k+ tuition, let alone a new instrument — especially this year.

Even so, I’m not giving up.

At UVA, I plan to perform, collaborate, and grow both as a musician and as a person. I want to give back by teaching, performing for the community, and eventually helping other students who were once in my shoes. Music isn’t just a dream — it’s a purpose. But to keep it alive, I need an instrument to call my own.

How You Can Help:

Every donation helps — whether it’s $5 or $500.

Even if you can’t donate, sharing this with your friends, family, or music lovers in your network would mean the world to me.

If you’d like to hear me play or get to know more about me personally, I’d love to connect. I’m more than happy to share recordings, updates, and my progress as I take this next step.

Thank you for believing in me and for supporting the future of music.

With gratitude,

Abishek Mugunthan