Cecelia Foundation
about Cecelia
The First Note
Responding to the great need to foster serious study among young, promising music students, The Cecelia Foundation, Inc was established in 1987 as a not-for-profit 501(c)3 charitable organization.
Playing In Harmony
Over the years, the Foundation has gifted aspiring musicians with new, professional quality instruments and monetary scholarships throughout the Tri-State area. Funded through the sale of recordings by The Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea, The Paul F. Zito, M.D. Foundation and individual music enthusiasts!
Sounding Good
The Cecelia Foundation continues to touch the lives of aspiring artists. Won’t you please join us? By your tax-exempt gift to the Foundation, you are making an investment in the God given talents of a young musician who can’t wait to play for you!
A Message from Fr. Alphonse Stephenson, Founder
Many thanks for visiting our new website! Even though the Cecelia Foundation has been in existence for almost thirty years, it is now that I’m concentrating on its growth. Having been a professional conductor or over thirty years, first on Broadway and then with The Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea, and having recently retired as an Air Force Chaplain, my desire is to turn the spotlight on to young, aspiring musicians.
Time moves so quickly; it seems like only yesterday, after my priestly ordination, that I felt called to become a conductor; but where does one begin? My success, so far, is a beautiful amalgamation of two things: PRAYER and KINDNESS! PRAYER: The inner voice that offers encouragement and never ceases to ignite enthusiasm; KINDNESS: The willingness on the part of professionals to pass-on skill and knowledge to one who is eager to learn.
Music students are often lost in the mix, vying for attention among their more “visible” peers. While the athlete hones his/her skill before a crowded stadium, the musician is tucked into a small, four-walled practice room, performing before a mirror and an imaginary audience. Whether it be through the awarding of a new instrument, a monetary endowment, or the opportunity to perform before a supportive and enthusiastic audience, the Cecelia Foundation is there to help make dreams come true.
Won’t you please join us? By your tax-exempt gift to the Foundation, you are making an investment in the God given talents of a young musician who can’t wait to play for you!