15-Year-Old Talented Virtuoso Violinist to Troubled Teens: ‘Get Involved In Something’
Andrew Koonce
by Maria Lloyd
This evening I had the pleasure of speaking with a talented 15-year-old virtuoso violinist out of Atlanta, GA. While most teens of his age, ethnicity, and gender are emulating the actions of hip-hop artists and athletes who engage in risky behavior, Andrew Koonce is honing his craft as a skilled virtuoso violinist.
Having attained a laundry list of achievements, including the highest honor of being named Concertmaster of the Georgia All State 6-8th Grade Orchestra in Savannah, Georgia, and receiving the Heritage Music Festival Maestro Award, Koonce still believes he has a long way to go to achieve his ultimate goal.
In case you’re wondering what that goal is, Koonce simply said “to get better.” Driven, intelligent, and persistent, Koonce reveres Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as his hero because of Dr. King’s efforts to open doors to make it possible for him and other African Americans to achieve their goals. He also reveres famed violinist Itzhak Pearlman as a role model, citing he has incredible skill despite having a physical disability acquired from contracting Polio at the age of four.
When I asked the teen what words of encouragement he has for troubled youth in his demographic race and age group, he simply said: “Get involved in something.” He also recommended various activities that teens can immerse themselves in. My conversation with this bright child reminded me of the reward of good parenting, as evidenced by his father’s outreach to our team and support of his son’s talent. I have no doubt in my mind that Andrew Koonce will be a globally respected name in the classical music sector. If you’re interested in staying abreast of his performances, visit him on Facebook by clicking here.
Listen to my brief interview with Andrew Koonce by clicking here.
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8 Responses to 15-Year-Old Talented Virtuoso Violinist to Troubled Teens: ‘Get Involved In Something’
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Keep up the good work young man!
Very inspired
February 8, 2013 at 2:03 pm
Thats cool and he,s absolutley right kids have to find something to get involved in.
marcus davis
February 8, 2013 at 4:39 pm
WOW! Thank you for sharing this story and information about this you very talented young man. It is inspiring to see one of our young Black youth involved in classical music. I encourage everyone to check out his facebook page-https://www.facebook.com/Andrewsviolin, his posted performances are GREAT!!! We, as a community, need to support him to help him reach his goals! Great job Andrew and thank you Maria for finding this talented young man. May God continue to bless him.
Lisa
February 8, 2013 at 5:40 pm
Oh wow! I’m going to have my sons check out the videos of his performances.
t_99
February 8, 2013 at 5:46 pm
Andrew Koonce will do well. I see him having a life-long career with his violin.
Zandra Conway
February 8, 2013 at 11:04 pm
How refreshing to see this young man’s commitment to one of the arts. Frequently, I think that some of us forget the level of discipline that it requires to excel in the arts. My congratulations to Andrew and prayers for this continued success. Accolades are also extended to this parents.
Dee Stephens
February 9, 2013 at 12:40 am
A wonderful story about a wonderful young brother. Let us stop comparing these successful young men to those who are less fortunate and start using our education, energy and expertise to help these young men. Our goal should be trying to create as many Andrew koonces as possible!!!
ordinarybrotha
February 9, 2013 at 9:53 pm
Many young Black kids are doing the right thing; we only hear about those who are not. Check out Facebook. Stupid adults are always posting what is GARBAGE and complaining about it. DON’T POST GARBAGE, stupid!!
Doug Handy
February 10, 2013 at 6:34 am