This PSA was shot at Austin Public for Amplify Austin Day 2017, to be aired on Austin Public Access channels. Features Founder and Director, Mark Turk, discussing how Beyond the Grade contributes to the Live Music Capital of the World…AUSTIN, TX.
Facebook Posts
Heartbreaking news about this tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with our brothers and sisters at Austin Soundwaves.We are heartbroken and devastated to hear of the loss of Draylen Mason, an incredibly talented bass player in Austin Soundwaves and a kind and courageous human being. Draylen Mason was part of the Austin Soundwaves program for 6 years. He joined us in our 1st summer program in 2012. Draylen had unmistakeable natural talent from day 1, but he didn't just rely on his natural abilities. He worked hard in music and in school and was a steadfast friend. He took advantage of every opportunity presented, performing in our jazz and mariachi groups, composing, and participating in programs like Austin Youth Orchestra and Austin Chamber Music Center.
Draylen was wise beyond his years and showed this by developing meaningful relationships with each Austin Soundwaves teacher and even professional musicians throughout Austin and the U.S. We've received calls and messages from professional musicians who only met or heard him play once, but didn't forgot the light and joy in his heart and his eagerness to learn.
Most recently, he had been accepted into top music schools, including the Butler School of Music and University of North Texas. We quietly wondered if one day Draylen could direct the Austin Soundwaves program.
In addition to music, Draylen expressed interest in fields like marketing, business, neuroscience. He stood up for what he believed in and was compelled to speak out against against injustice in the world. Draylen made his mark on our world and will be our constant remind of why we do this work and while we need to work tirelessly to provide opportunities for all kids and fight the evil that seeks to get in the way.
Shop online and donate?!? It's so easy and now you can 3x your impact! Amazon is tripling the donation rate on your firstsmile.amazon.com purchase - through March 31! Go tosmile.amazon.com/ch/47-2438924 and Amazon donates to Beyond the Grade.