This month, the Hernando Youth Orchestra Concertmaster, John Boyle, 16 is heading to Baylor University in Waco, Texas to begin his studies. He earned a scholarship to Baylor with an excellent academic record and exceptional skill as a violinist. He has been a member of the HYO for nine years. John plays a number of other instruments and has also participated in the Hernando Symphony Orchestra.
Two of John’s siblings aren’t far behind. His brother Joseph Boyle, 14 and sister Maria Boyle, 12 recently earned full scholarships (room and board, tuition and books) to attend New College in Sarasota FL. New College is the USF honors program and requires ivy league level academic excellence.
The Boyle siblings earned this honor by placing third in the Brain Bowl, an all-state competition called CROP (College Reach-Out Program) sponsored by Pasco-Hernando State College. The event was held in Tampa in March.
Scientific studies show that young people who seriously study music get a 17-20% boost in academic performance. The Boyles are living evidence to support that scientific claim.
Both Joseph and Maria have played with the Hernando Youth Orchestra (HYO) for many years, beginning when they were each about 7 years old. The three youngest Boyle siblings also play in the orchestra.
Joseph Boyle plans on studying computer science, and expects to be ready for New College in 2 years when he turns 16. Twelve year old Maria is still unsettled on a course study, but reminds us that she has at least has 4 years to consider her options as she, too, plans on starting at New College when she is 16.
Hernando Youth Orchestra serves children ages 6-21 in Hernando, Pasco, Citrus and Sumter counties. It is free to join. It teaches skills like teamwork, discipline, and organization that can last a lifetime. To learn more, call 352-600-9555 or visit www.hernandoyouthorchestra.org.