Yard Sale at Comfort Inn & Suites on January 11 and 18
Contributed Article
PIMA – Ryan Burk, a 15-year-old musician and resident of Pima, has been accepted into the WorldStrides Honors Performance Program for High School Students Symphony Orchestra in New York. He was invited to audition for the program last year and was thrilled to find out that he had been accepted.
Ryan first started his musical education with Jennifer DeSpain of Thatcher, as a five year old enrolled in the Let’s Play Music program. In second grade, he began his cello training as a part of the Discovery Plus Academy Orchestra under the tutelage of Mrs. Kim Skinner. By third grade, he had composed his first song. Through the years, he has continued to enjoy musical education from Gila Valley greats, including Shawnda Bennett, Carrie Meredith, and Chase Moore. Ryan currently plays piano, cello, bass, saxophone, and guitar.
As a part of the WorldStrides program, Ryan will receive instruction from some of the country’s finest musicians and music educators, alongside other dedicated musicians from around the world. The experience will culminate in a performance at Carnegie Hall on Feb. 6-10.
To help raise money to pay for his tuition, fees, and expenses, Ryan’s parents have organized a benefit yard sale that will be held the next two Saturdays, Jan. 11 and 18, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in front of the Comfort Inn & Suites in Thatcher at 2577 U.S. Highway 70.
Direct donations for the program can also be made by clicking here.
Ryan wants to express his gratitude to his parents, his teachers, and the many community members and businesses that have donated time, money, or merchandise to help make this dream a reality.
