[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 64 (Wednesday, May 8, 2013)]
[Senate]
[Pages S3253-S3254]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO ANDREW DOWNS

 Mr. SHELBY. Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to 
Andrew Downs who, at age 15, has been named to the first ever National 
Youth Orchestra of the United States. Andrew is a native of Irondale, 
AL, and is a sophomore at the Alabama School of Fine Arts. He is the 
principal bassist for the Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra.
  The National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America is an 
initiative of Carnegie Hall's Weill Music Institute that brings 
together 120 of the most promising and talented young musicians from 
across the country to play together across the Nation and the globe. 
This year marks their inaugural session.

[[Page S3254]]

  Andrew was selected out of a pool of 2,500 applicants from all 50 
States, and is clearly one of Alabama's most talented young musicians. 
He is a member of the National Junior Honor Society and also plays the 
violin, cello, and piano. He hopes to one day pursue a career as a bass 
player for a symphony orchestra.
  This talented young man will be the only Alabamian in the orchestra, 
as well as one of only 10 bassists selected. I am proud to represent a 
State that is home to promising young individuals such as Andrew, who 
are committed to displaying excellence in their education and the arts.
  Further, I wish Andrew Downs all the best as he embarks on his 
journey playing with the National Youth Orchestra. This is a true honor 
bestowed upon a very deserving student.

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