Ricardo Anderson II named winner of first Tony Lucas Scholarship Award

For eight years, Tony Lucas has driven from his full time job at TMJ4 to work with MYSO Progressions students twice per week.  That is nearly 1200 hours of time he has given to MYSO!  Progressions is an intensive, high-impact string training program for students in the City of Milwaukee.  A two year commitment, students attend lessons, master class, and orchestra three days per week during the school year.  This year, MYSO has found a way to honor Mr. Lucas and his level of commitment to mentoring young children through music. 

On May 31, the first annual Tony Lucas Scholarship Award was presented to one special Progressions students advancing into String Orchestra.  Students eligible for this scholarship were in their second year of Progressions, successfully auditioned into String Orchestra for 2012-13, and worked very hard through their two years in the program.  The award went to Ricardo Anderson II, a fourth grade cellist studying with Ravenna Helson.  Ricardo will receive paid MYSO tuition for the next season, lessons for one year and will be provided an instrument.  Over his two years of Progressions, Ricardo made a great impression with his intense work ethic and commitment to his instrument.  He consistently had great attendance, practiced nearly every day and had great parental support to help get him through this time-intensive program.  Ricardo showed exemplary commitment and musicianship,and  will be one of many success stories of the MYSO Progressions program.

Pictured with Ricardo and Mr. Lucas are Ricardo's very proud cello teacher Ravenna Helson and his extremely proud mom Stephanie Anderson.