The nonprofit Greater Pasco Youth Symphony was founded this year with the goal of encouraging kids in grades 5-12 to practice cello, brass, woodwind, percussion and more. It was the vision of violinists Emiko Wennerholt and Amy Bryant; Wennerholt has performed with the Florida Orchestra.

“It’s a good way to learn music,” said 12-year-old violinist Akshaya Venkata. “You’re supposed to (learn) what a symphony is and what it takes to be in a symphony.”

For more info on the Greater Pasco Youth Symphony, click here for Michele Miller’s story.