Young San Antonio Musician Advocates for the Arts

For well over a year now, Michael Villarreal has made a gift of his talent to further the mission of theFund to support the arts in San Antonio. Many times, having to rise very early and travel long distances (thanks to his Father, Sam Villarreal), he has given generously of his time and talent over and over again, playing his cello for the employees at various companies and organizations that have hosted annual workplace campaigns.

Inspired by Michael's musical talent and commitment to the arts, donors get the opportunity to experience the fruit of their giving to theFund, as he is representative of YOSA,[Youth Orchestra of San Antonio] one of theFund's recipient affiliates.

Thank you, Michael for inspiring us, our donors, other students, now and in the future to make a difference by giving of your time and talent.

Interview with Michael Villarreal

When did you start playing the cello?

I started playing the cello November 2007 at the age of 11.

Was there one individual or moment that inspired you to begin?

There was no particular moment. I knew I wanted to be in my middle school orchestra. I chose the cello because I liked the sound of it.

Michael performing with YOSA

Where have you studied?

My studies have been limited to the state of Texas. I’ve studied with John Stuart here in San Antonio. I’ve also studied with Jeffrey Lastrapes from Texas Tech University and had master classes with Dmitri Atapine, Fred Edelen, Sharon Robinson, Anthony Elliot, and Bion Tsang.

When did you begin playing to support theFund?

To the best of my recollection it was March 2011 at the Toyota Plant.

What is your goal in performing for theFund?

Michael plays for employees at San Antonio River Authority

My goal is simple. The arts here in the San Antonio area are in need of funding. I would like to do my best to see that this happens and to maybe one day see San Antonio on par with some of the other big cities in the nation. San Antonio is the seventh largest city in the nation, and I think it would be nice for San Antonio to be known for the arts. I believe that San Antonio has the potential and the talent to have great artists and musicians. We only need the opportunity to do so. I guess my goal in performing with theFund is to help everyone who may want to be in the arts have that opportunity.

Why do you believe it is important to support the arts?

The arts enhance and simulate the mind and allow people to express themselves. I think it’s very important to make sure the arts stay in San Antonio and intertwine them with the culture of San Antonio.

What are your goals for your music?

I would like to revitalize classical music here in the San Antonio area and wherever music takes me in life.

What do you enjoy the most about performing?

I really like making a connection with the audience and trying my best to emote what the composer was writing about. Performing is my passion, and I hope to do it for the rest of my life.

Michael performs for Bexar County Employees

Actually, every performance has something really special to it. What amazes me is the record-breaking fundraising that has been done this year. I’m honored to be part of it and hope to continue to be part of it.
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If you would like more information about how to support the arts in San Antonio, visit http://www.thefundsa.org/