Help Zeke Compete in Conducting Competitions!

Hello Friends and Family,

I have the opportunity to attend several orchestral conducting competitions in Europe this summer! I might be visiting a handful of places depending on which festivals I can afford to commit to in Austria, Italy, Spain, Armenia, and Romania.

Rebecca and I both miss Oregon dearly and have only been able to go home to visit once since we left for upstate New York, and the snow. This past year, I completed my Doctoral studies at the Eastman School of Music and on December 31st, 2020 I officially became Dr. Zeke Fetrow. Between moving to Rochester for my degree and the COVID pandemic, the past two years have been financially difficult. We made it through without having to eat top ramen for three meals a day, but it hasn't left us with much flexibility at a crucial point in my career.

To be a competitive candidate for the great jobs out there, I need to get some international exposure by attending competitions like these. These festivals are attended, and adjudicated, by many of the top performing artist representation agencies around the world, from Moscow to London to Los Angeles. I know we have lots of football fans in our family so imagine this like the NFL combine, but for guys in tuxedos holding sticks. The prizes range from cash and offers to conduct individual concerts, to agency representation and even full-season job offers.

Now, I need your help!

After creating a budget for the trip including everything from airfare and lodging to the protein bars I'll be packing in my carry-on, we won't be able to afford to cover these costs on our own. Some of the competitions last only three days, but several last a couple weeks. I am planning to arrive in Armenia on June 5th and I'll be leaving Spain to come back to the US on July 29th. The amount I'm asking for breaks down to roughly $2,300 in airfare (hopping the pond is a LONG flight), about $400 in the scores I'll use to conduct from, roughly $800 in fees for the various competitions, about $1,000 for food, and $500 to see a few things while I'm there.

You have all shown so much love and support already, watching my career closely and coming to my concerts, and it has meant the world to know that my friends and family are always in my corner. I deeply appreciate any support you can share to make this journey possible and will let you know how I use those gifts on my trip. Whether your help buys my first meal off the airplane or guarantees I can afford housing during my stay in Vienna, anything you can give is a blessing.

Thank you! Hugs and kisses from Rebecca, myself, and our cat.