Help support Michael's musical journey to Canada!

Hi, my name is Michael Widjaja and I am a trumpet player from Sioux City, Iowa currently studying music education at The Hartt School!

Music has always been a part of my life. I still remember that the first time music filled my ears was from a tinny car radio. At age three, I was belting melodies from the radio station “K-LOVE” in the back of a 1998 Ford Windstar. This memory is what founded my love for music.

The youngest of seven siblings, my musical instruments were always hand-me-downs. I started playing trumpet in the fifth grade with my sister's rusty old trumpet with parts that were beginning to turn green from the copper. Before my sister played it, it was my cousins. But holding it for the first time, I thought I was presented the holy grail—it was an amazing first days on the trumpet.

Ever since then, I got to see the impact music has on people. I continued to study trumpet, making it into All-State in the band and orchestra, becoming one of six trumpeters in the All-National Symphony Orchestra, as well as one of five trumpeters in the National Youth Wind Ensemble.

Now I am blessed to announce that I have been invited to two esteemed music festivals—the PRISMA Festival in Powell River in Canada, and the Credo National Festival in Chicago. However, traveling, lodging, and playing with incredibly talented musicians all add up in total cost.

This is where YOU come in! I invite you to come to my benefit recital titled "Manhattan" on May 21st in Sergeant Bluff, Iowa, or join the livestream starting at 6:00 PM CDT. At the recital, you can give a freewill donation to help cover the expenses of attending these festivals or give here. Every single bit helps to make the dream of playing music with high-caliber musicians from around the world become a reality for me.

Michael and Esteban Batallán, Principal Trumpet of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra

All money raised will go towards these costs; the breakdown can be found here.

Making and sharing music with my community is an absolute joy and pleasure of mine. Another is leading students to a brighter future. Two years from now, I see myself teaching my students and sharing the joy that comes with learning this wonderful art form. So please, spare a couple of dollars to help me work with the best of the best to then share the best of the best with my community and the future generation.

Thank you so much for your support!

With peace, love, and joy,

Michael Widjaja