*Draylen Mason Fellows and staff after the 2024 Capstone Concert*

We honor Draylen with this program and present a capstone curated and led by the fellows every year. The focus of each capstone is unique - the fellows curate and lead the various aspect of the performance, in particular choosing the theme of the show. The theme addresses a social issue important to the fellows and their communities. This year, they focused on Centered Margins, which represents bringing ideas and those who share those ideas for change into the fold and at the forefront.

Our Draylen Mason Fellows worked hard throughout the year, meeting regular in workshops and music rehearsals to create the capstone. They brought immense talent and a sense of purpose, making this sixth cohort of fellows yet another special and devoted group of young people.

Jordyn Broaders, flute
Vic Ducea, clarinet
Cerys Freer, clarinet and conducting
Davi Garza, piano
Travis Ortiz, cello

*Ms. Shamika Wilson, Draylen’s mother and current Austin Soundwaves board member, with beautiful and moving words about the last several years of the fellows program.*

The Draylen Mason Fellows were supported throughout the year by mentors, all selected from past years fellows. This year we were joined by Cristal Martinez Perez (DMFP ‘19), Allyson Chu (DMFP ‘22), and Michael Chong (DMFP ‘23). Their experience and support uplifts the program and helps to ensure continuity from year-to-year.

Audience members waiting in anticipation for the show to start. This year’s Draylen Mason Fellows Program Capstone was at full capacity, a testament to Draylen’s legacy and the work of the fellows. We were joined by family, friends, supporters, and next year’s incoming class of fellows.

In the wake of Draylen's passing on March 12, 2018, a wave of collective grief washed over our community. Out of this sorrow, the Draylen Mason Fellows Program (DMFP) was born, a testament to Draylen's deep-rooted love for the arts. This initiative, designed for rising high school students, harnesses the power of art to address social justice issues. DMFP offers these students a wealth of experiences, collaborative opportunities and financial aid of up to $1,000.

Austin Soundwaves partnered with several organizations to start DMFP, including the Armstrong Community Music School, Austin Chamber Music Center, Austin Youth Orchestra, Golden Hornet, KMFA 89.5, and Mother Falcon.

The fellowship year culminates in an original capstone performance created and curated by the students, following their hearts and always asking the question, “What would Dray do?”

Left: Draylen Mason Fellow Jordyn with new fellow Bryan; Draylen Mason Fellow Vic with their teacher Stephen; Right: Friends and teachers of Draylen after the capstone.

For more information about DMFP or how you can support it, please visit austinsoundwaves.org/draylen.

Draylen Mason Fellows Program Capstone