Notes of Generosity: Building a Tradition of Belonging Through TRYPO
In honor of Donor Month, we’re sharing stories from the families and supporters who help make TRYPO possible. Today’s story reflects how one family found not just a music program, but a lasting tradition of community, growth, and giving back.
The moment we knew TRYPO was the right fit for our family
The moment they called us back, we knew. From that very first interaction, it was clear that TRYPO was more than an organization. It was a family. Our son wasn’t just another musician or number; he was welcomed as a valued member of a community, like a brother among fellow musicians.
What stood out immediately was how deeply they cared about the kids, not just their musical performance, but who they are as individuals. And that’s saying something, given the incredibly high caliber of music they produce.
We still remember vividly driving home from his first rehearsal, listening to him excitedly share how he felt like he had “found his people.” While his local school introduced him to music, TRYPO gave him something even more meaningful: a true sense of belonging. It became a place where he could connect with other students who shared his passion, grow in confidence, and feel fully seen and supported. That sense of belonging is what started a tradition for our family, and why we are proud to give back to TRYPO.
The most surprising growth we’ve seen in our child
We have watched our once quiet and timid child grow into a confident, strong, and courageous musician, the very person he always dreamed of becoming. While he is still on his journey to becoming the best musician he can be, the growth we’ve witnessed has been remarkable.
Along the way, he has been surrounded by incredible role models who have shown him not just what it means to be a great musician, but what it means to be a great person. Through this experience, he’s learning that music has the power to impact lives and even influence generations to come.
With a positive attitude, ambitious goals, and the support of a close-knit community of fellow musicians cheering him on every step of the way, he is growing into both the musician and the person we always hoped he would become.
Why we chose to support TRYPO financially
We have chosen to support TRYPO because we deeply believe in its vision of bringing together the children of Pittsburgh to create and perform beautiful, timeless music. It provides young musicians with opportunities they might not otherwise have, the chance to share their gifts and make a meaningful impact on the hearts of their community.
We want future generations of children to experience those same life-changing moments and even more: performing in places many only dream of, and witnessing the joy their music brings, whether it’s seeing a listener’s face light up during a beloved Beethoven piece or the excitement sparked by a familiar Star Wars theme.
Supporting TRYPO is our way of helping ensure those opportunities continue, so more young musicians can grow, connect, and inspire through the power of music.
One word that describes our child’s conductor or ensemble experience
It’s hard to choose just one word, but if we had to, it would be inspiring.
TRYPO and Maestro Worsdale create an environment that is both fun and energetic, while also challenging students to grow. We especially appreciate how he shares his knowledge and personal experiences, helping the musicians not only understand the music more deeply but also learn how to come together as a cohesive ensemble.
A memory from this season we’ll never forget
One memory we will never forget is the incredible tour to Germany. From hearing the students perform in beautiful churches to watching them take the stage in renowned halls like Dvořák Hall, it truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What made it even more special was sharing it as a family alongside 125 of our closest friends. Watching the rich history of music come alive through these young musicians was nothing short of amazing.
And of course… we will Bach—we couldn’t resist adding at least one dad joke along the way.
– Nick Inkenhaus, TRYPO Board Member