I'm Jens Otterness, and I have always had a passion for music. Since starting piano at the age of 3, and violin at 5, there has never been a time when I was not practicing or playing music. At seven, I wanted to be part of a bigger group, so I joined Cascade Youth Symphony Orchestra. I started in the youngest group, and worked my way up to the first violin section in the top orchestra. Now at 16 years old, I play trumpet in my school's band, practice piano a great deal for many piano competitions and recitals, and I enjoy creating electronic music of all sorts. I have also played for weddings, and I am on the worship team for my church. I enjoy playing in the youth symphony very much, and look forward to every Monday night rehearsal.
Once every four years, my youth orchestra goes on a tour, performing many concerts, and viewing many attractions and sights along the way. This year, we will be traveling through Slovenia, Slovakia, Croatia, Hungary, and Austria.
It would be really phenomenal to be able to go, but I am going to need help to get there. If I don't go on this tour, I don't have another chance, as I'll have graduated high school by then. This is a one time opportunity to travel and experience the wonders of Europe with other musicians like me, through concerts and sightseeing.
I am aiming to reach a goal of $5,000 to go toward the trip, and would really appreciate any support I could get. If I happen to raise more than my goal, that will go toward future music/educational expenses. Feel free to share this with any family or friends to help me reach my goal :).
