Hi everyone!

My name is Laren Hines and I am currently studying Instrumental Music Education at the University of Louisville. Last month, I had the honor of being selected as a participant for the University of Michigan Wind Conducting Workshop - a one-week, hands-on musical experience with some of the top music faculty in the country.

My initial plan was to fund most of this experience via grant funding, but I ended up receiving a significantly smaller grant than proposed. I am so incredibly thankful to have received any funding at all, but this now means that most of the costs are left for me to cover. All of these expenses are directly tied to my housing, tuition, meals, and materials for the week.

Attending this workshop is a culmination of everything I've worked for during my time in music school, and would provide me experiences and information that better me as an educator, musician, and scholar. The lack of grant funding has made me consider giving up my spot in the program due to financial barriers - a decision that I'm hoping doesn't have to be made.

I am so grateful for any consideration given - whether that be a donation, sharing, or even just reading. This opportunity is truly a dream come true and it wouldn't be possible without the community that has supported me every step of the way.

Thank you!