The Little Traveler Joins with Brighton to Support the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra

Do you remember how you felt after you gave your first live performance - or when you discovered the sound a trombone makes, or saw a ballerina stand on pointe for the first time? In today's economy, many schools across the country are no longer offering children these experiences.

That’s why on 3rd Street in downtown Geneva, IL has partnered with Brighton to support the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra. The EYSO is a group of over 350 young musicians from 4th grade through college age, coming from more than 65 area communities. The EYSO enriches the lives of its students and the wider community through the study and performance of excellent music. “This year, the EYSO has experienced a record number of students auditioning for placement in our ensembles. We have had an increase in younger students auditioning for the EYSO as many schools have been cutting back their music and orchestra programs.” says Dana Vierck, EYSO Director of Development.

Hundreds of other specialty retailers across the country are also joining Brighton in this initiative to donate to a wide range of kids’ charity programs for the arts – ballet, orchestra, symphony, art programs including painting as well as music programs and classes.

Here’s how it works: For every purchase of a Brighton Americana bracelet, which retails for $48, The Little Traveler will donate $12 to the EYSO, and Brighton will match that donation with an additional $12 so that a full 50% of the retail price will go directly to supporting this important organization for youth in the Fox Valley. This limited edition bracelet will only be available until July 31, 2012, while supplies last.

Donating by design is a continuing tradition at Brighton, where founder and owner Jerry Kohl and his team of designers have created jewelry collections which have raised over $8 million for charity. The Americana bracelet is inspired by our flag and adorned with Swarovski crystals in two shades of blue, two shades of red, and two crystalline hues.

By choosing a 501 (C) (3) charity program or a local school to receive proceeds from the sale of the Americana bracelet, participating Brighton retailers are ensuring that the programs receiving donations will strengthen the arts in each community.

As Laura K. Young, Brighton's President of Sales and Marketing explains, "I can't imagine what my life would have been like without the ballet classes I took throughout my school years, the piano lessons and recitals or learning to paint with oils. My participation in these programs not only gave me an appreciation for the arts, it gave me the confidence to become the person I am today."

Area residents will have a wonderful opportunity to see the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra in action at a special concert at Ravinia in Highland Park, IL on Saturday, July 7 at 11am.  The program is titled “Beethoven Lives Upstairs” and tickets are $10 for pavilion and $5 for the lawn.  Tickets can be ordered at www.ravinia.org or by calling 847-266-5100.