Claudette Laureano Legacy Fund
In Honor of Claudette Laureano’s 29 Year Legacy of Orchestral Excellence
When will the Claudette Laureano Legacy Fund be presented to Mrs. Laureano?
Our hope is to have sufficient funds raised in time for the Stringfest concert on April 25 at 2:00PM in Cargill Theater. Plans are still in the works but our hope is to present the gift at the conclusion of the concert, or during the reception following the concert.
What is a Founding Donor for the Claudette Laureano Legacy Fund?
A Founding Donor is an individual or family who provides a significant, leadership-level gift to help launch the fund. This type of support is essential as it provides the initial momentum and financial foundation required to make the fund a reality for future orchestra students. Gifts of $1,000 or more given prior to April 1, 2026 will be automatically considered as Founding Donors.
Are there any incentives provided for Founding Donors?
To celebrate our Founding Donors, we are pleased to offer preferred, reserved seating (up to 4 seats) for Mrs. Laureano’s final Stringfest Concert on April 25 at 2:00 PM. These seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis for those who contribute $1,000 or more by April 1, 2026. All Founding Donors will also be gratefully recognized in the concert program.
May I give to the campaign without being a Founding Donor?
Absolutely. While Founding Donors provide a leadership foundation, every gift—regardless of size—is a cherished tribute to Mrs. Laureano’s 29-year legacy. Our goal is to see our entire community come together to reach this $20,000 milestone; your participation is what truly makes this fund a success.
What is Claudette's favorite piece of music that she and her students have performed?
“My list is actually endless, but here are some that we performed over the years that I especially loved: Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 3; Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons; Shostakovich’s String Quartet No. 8; Shostakovich’s The Gadfly Suite; Beethoven’s Symphonies No. 5 and 6; Barber’s Adagio for Strings.”
What is Claudette's favorite Breck Orchestra memory (or memories)?
“The absolute best memories I have are from rehearsals. I loved watching those light bulbs switch on when something suddenly made musical sense. There was nothing more rewarding than seeing understanding take root. I also cherished our discussions about phrasing, dynamics, articulation, and the subtle nuances that bring music to life.”
Other memorable events:
- Two group tours in 1984 and 1988 that were wonderful
- Manny performing with Breck Chamber Players on many occasions in chapel and on our tours
- Performing for Middle, Upper, and All School Chapel on a regular basis, as well as invitations to perform for Grandparent’s Day, Trustee Day, Teacher Appreciation Day and Graduation.
- Performing the Shostakovich’s entire Gadfly Suite with my Breck Chamber Players at the Minnesota Music Educators Association Convention in 2025
What would Claudette most like her students to remember about their Breck orchestra experience?
“Excellence was always the standard. Regardless of age or experience, every ensemble was expected to go beyond the notes on the page and craft performances that were both beautiful and lasting. I want my students to always remember: ‘To be good is not enough when you dream of being great.’”
Quote from Dee Ito, writer and author who served as creative consultant for the School of the Visual Arts (SVA) in New York City 1978
What have you loved most about your 29 years at Breck?
“Nothing has meant more to me than my students. Every year I thought I had the best class I had ever taught—and every year, I was right.”
What is the one thing you want your students to remember throughout their lives?
“I have always believed what Henry Ford once said: ‘Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t—you’re right.’ Mindset shapes achievement. What we believe about ourselves often determines what we are willing to attempt—and ultimately, what we accomplish.”