The Me2/Orchestra, a classical music ensemble comprised of musicians from 8 to 86 with mental health issues and those who support them, received a grant to expand its reach by starting a second orchestra in Boston in September.

Caroline Whiddon, executive director, describes Me2 as a “one-of-a-kind” ensemble with people of all ability levels who have experienced the impact of mental illness.

Musicians with and without mental illness perform together with acceptance, patience and support at rehabilitation centers, correctional facilities and other venues.

The orchestra, founded by Music Director and Conductor Ronald Braunstein in Burlington, VT, in 2011, hopes to attract new musicians in both Burlington and Boston for its fall season.  There are no auditions and no fees to participate.
 
The success of Me2 has inspired stories not only in local news media but also by media outlets as far afield as the BBC and Al Jazeera.

We thought it especially fitting to support Me2 for a second time as it becomes a “two-of-a-kind” ensemble with its Boston affiliate.