Support Kaylee's Musical Journey with a new Flute

Hello! Thank you for taking the time to read Kaylee's story. As her mom she inspires me everyday and we are so proud of what she has accomplished so far and we know great thing are coming!

Hi I am Kaylee Johnson, and I am a passionate flutist and junior at Chicago High School for the Arts. The flute has been my constant companion and source of joy for the past eight years. My musical journey began in the third grade when I joined Ravinia’s El Sistema Orchestra program. There, I immediately fell in love with the flute and began to soar as a musician with the guidance of my teacher Mr. Michael, I knew that music would be my greatest passion.

One of the most memorable moments of my early journey was attending my first Master Class with the renowned flutist Sir James Galway. His inspiring guidance and exceptional artistry left a lasting impact on me, fueling my dedication to pursue music with all my heart.

Another memorable moment was performing in a master class with renowned flute and piccolo of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Jennifer Gunn. Her expertise in technique and sound helped me gain more motivation to continue to pursue music.

The exceptional music programs I’m privileged to be a part of continually enrich my journey. I have been a dedicated Ravinia’s El Sistema Orchestra member for several years and have proudly participated in the Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative (CMPI) for the past three years. Through CMPI, I have had the incredible opportunity to study with the esteemed flutist Hideko Amano. Her guidance has been invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for the chance to learn from such a distinguished artist.

Additionally, I have been a dedicated member of the Merit School of Music for three years, participating in the Wind Symphony, Philharmonic Orchestra, and the competitive Purple Hippopotami Flute Quartet and Flute Trio.

Most recently, one of my greatest achievements was being offered a seat as a flutist to perform with the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra (CYSO) for the 2024-2025 season. I am involved in both the orchestra and woodwind quintet.

Throughout this journey, I have been playing a student-level flute which has allowed me to build strong foundational skills. However, to reach the next level of my musicianship, I need to purchase a professional-level instrument that will allow me to develop the sound, technical facility, and artistic expression needed to fulfill my dream of attending a top conservatory and becoming a member of one of the amazing orchestras in this country.

Your generous donations will make a significant difference in helping me access this essential instrument, attend prestigious music programs, and continue my education under the guidance of world-class musicians.

Your support is crucial in helping me achieve my dreams and share the beauty of music with the world. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings me one step closer to making my aspirations a reality.

Thank you for considering supporting my musical journey.

This GoFundMe is being managed by my mom Eugenia Gillie Johnson.