This year, more than 120 young musicians are dedicating their weekends to A Gift for Music’s Saturday Strings, a program of A Gift for Teaching. Each week, these students are guided by an incredible team of instructors who bring skill, heart, and inspiration to every rehearsal.

Our weekend musical mentors are comprised of University of Central Florida graduates and Orange County Public Schools educators who share a deep passion for helping students from all backgrounds experience the power of music.

Whether tuning an instrument, guiding a bow hold, or celebrating a student’s first musical accomplishment, their impact is already clear and captured in what our A Gift for Music students shared about their instructors:

“We love Ms. Almonte because she is funny and makes learning fun!”

Ms. Almonte is the primary conductor of Prelude Strings and Concert Strings.

“We love Ms. Nany because she pushes us to do our best!”

Ms. Nany is the orchestra assistant for Prelude Strings and the violin teacher.

“We love Ms. Garcia because she challenges us while making sure everyone understands!”

Ms. Garcia is the primary conductor of Etude Strings and the cello teacher.

“We love Mr. Hernandez because he is funny and treats everyone with kindness!”

Mr. Hernandez is the Orchestra assistant for both Etude Strings and Concert Strings.

“We love Mr. McCabe because he is always understanding and patient!”

Mr. McCabe is the primary conductor of Chamber Strings and small ensemble coach.

“We love Mr. Santi because he treats everyone with respect and makes class fun!”

Mr. Santi is the Orchestra assistant for Chamber strings.

“We love Mr. Frazao because he’s kind and doesn’t make us feel bad about making mistakes!”

Mr. Frazao is an orchestra assistant and the string bass teacher.

What makes this particular teaching team extraordinary isn’t just their musical talent, but their commitment to shape the next generation of musicians by building teamwork, perseverance, and a deeper appreciation for the arts.

Follow @AGiftForMusic on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok and experience the real results of free string music education at A Gift for Music’s Winter Concert on Saturday, December 13, 2025. The concert is free and open to the public.

A Gift for Teaching is proud to highlight our 2025-2026 A Gift for Music program instructors for turning passion into purpose and talent into teaching. These incredible individuals show what’s possible when education and the arts unite to create new opportunities.

By becoming a monthly donor today, a Classroom Hero, you help A Gift for Teaching continue its work in the music room and so much more. Join a dedicated community that empowers teachers, inspires students, and ensures classrooms of all types have the tools and resources they need throughout the year.