Welcome to award-winning The Hill Country Podcast. The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful places on earth. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with the people and organizations that make this the most unique area of Texas.
This week Tom welcomes Mark Haufler, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Hill Country Youth Orchestras and Patricia Lee, Executive Artistic Director.
The Hill Country Youth Orchestras been serving young musicians in the Hill Country area since 1987. Initially starting as a small organization in one town with just 50-60 students, it has grown to include three locations and ten orchestra levels, serving 150-220 students, tuition-free each year. The program, praised for fostering discipline and teamwork through music, has helped students flourish locally and internationally. Lee discusses her journey from conductor to director to Executive Artistic Director. Haufler shared his non-musical but passionate journey in supporting the organization. The conversation also highlights the orchestra’s breadth across different locations like Kerrville, Boerne, and Fredericksburg, each offering unique opportunities for student musicians.
They discussed the upcoming annual High Tea fundraiser at the Museum of Western Art on October 19. This unique event, famous in Kerr County, combines Western and English culture, featuring activities like bingo and showcasing student performances. Both Patricia and Mark highlight their enthusiasm for the event and encourage participation. The episode serves as both an insight into the cultural and educational impacts of the Hill Country Youth Orchestras and as a call to support their mission through the High Tea event.
Key Highlights:
- History and Growth of Hill Country Youth Orchestras
- Roles and Contributions of Key Members
- Impact on Students and Community
- Expansion to Other Locations
- Annual High Tea Fundraiser
Resources:
Hill Country Youth Orchestra
Other Hill Country-Focused Podcasts
