M3loDy Makers is the Williamsburg Youth Orchestra’s elementary outreach initiative, launched in the 2024–2025 season at Waller Mill Elementary School. Designed to provide free, high-quality violin instruction, the program serves a diverse group of students in grades 3–5, including those facing socio-economic barriers and their peers. Each week, students participate in two hours of afterschool instruction led by dedicated teaching instructors. In partnership with the Williamsburg Regional Library, students receive two custom 3D-printed violins—one to use in class and one to take home—printed in Waller Mill’s school colors, purple and yellow.

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The program was made possible by the vision of the late Nanci Bond, who introduced the idea after seeing a 3D-printing presentation. Inspired by its potential, she connected Ben Strohm at the library with the Williamsburg Youth Orchestra. With Ben’s support, WYO instructors worked to refine the design, making the instruments accessible and cost-effective.

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Principal Khrista Brownlee was the first to embrace the idea, helping bring the program to life after three years of planning by the WYO Board of Directors. Generous funding from the Charles S. and Millicent P. Brown Family Foundation and Paul and Linda Kligman-Try, and Nanci Bond’s legacy made its launch possible.

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After 25 weeks of instruction, M3loDy Makers held a final concert that was free and open to the public. The event was well attended and sparked strong interest from both the community and the York County School Division—highlighting the value and impact of the program.

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In the 2025–2026 season, Phase II of the program will expand to include both Level 1 and Level 2 classes, giving returning students the opportunity to advance their skills while welcoming a new group of beginners. This expansion is made possible by renewed support from the Charles S. and Millicent P. Brown Family Foundation and Paul and Linda Kligman-Try, along with new funding from the Williamsburg Community Foundation.

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WYO’s long-term vision is to bring M3loDy Makers to additional local schools, ensuring that more children, especially those who might not otherwise have access to private lessons or the means to purchase instruments, can begin developing music skills early. These foundational experiences not only foster a love for music but also create a natural pathway into learning other instruments and participating in WYO ensembles.

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Donations are crucial to help us expand this program and reach more students. To support M3loDy Makers, please click on the QR code below to donate. When donating, be sure to include the comment “afterschool program” to designate your gift.

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Thank you for helping us bring the joy of music to more children in our community.