Since the events of Sept. 11, Massapequans have been quick to volunteer their time and money to support those affected by the tragedy. Fourteen-year-old Massapequa resident Andrew Kromholz is no exception. He is volunteering his talent as a cellist with the Ambassador of Peace Youth Orchestra of New York.

The orchestra, composed of 60 children from the New York area, performed a special concert honoring the victims of Sept. 11 at the New York Presbyterian Hospital in December. Within the next two weeks, they are scheduled to perform at the Trinity Church, located at Ground Zero. Future plans include an invitation to perform in the White House for the President, a special performance at the Vatican for Pope John Paul II in Rome, Italy, as well as concerts in Toledo and Madrid, Spain.

The Ambassador of Peace Youth Orchestra began in 1955 as a community outreach program designed to provide tuition-free group instruction for children residing in the five boroughs of New York City. One of the goals of the orchestra is to raise funds for many charitable organizations. They perform for the children of Ronald McDonald Houses, as well as public schools, nursing homes, community centers and hospitals. All 60 members are dedicated to developing their skills and sharing their enthusiasm and love of music with their audience.

Andrew is the only member from Massapequa. His inspiration to play the cello came from Mrs. Pearl, his music teacher in fourth grade at Unqua School. He has been playing the cello ever since, and is privately taught by Ms. Iris Michels. He participates in NYSSMA every year, and was chosen to play for the 1999 All County Music Festival at Tilles Center for Performing Arts. He has also played for a chamber group at the town festival of Massapequa. He is currently a student at Ames School.

"We are very proud of Andrew and his musical accomplishments," said his mother, Lucila. "He really enjoys playing his cello, and seeing how his music is appreciated by others. In the beginning, we did not know where this would lead. Andrew has proven to us that he really does have the ability to play this instrument, and well. He has developed his own style, and whenever he plays, it draws the whole family into the room to hear him."

Andrew says that his goal is to be able to study at the Juilliard School of Music and be a professional cellist. He believes that music is universal, and that even if people cannot communicate because of language or differences, music can bring them together.