YMV helped me through high school with opportunities to grow in music, friendships, theatre, school, and so much more. I made lifetime friendships that would not have been possible without YMV! I met people along the journey that strengthened my relationship with Christ and gave me many blessings outside of YMV. I feel blessed to have gone to YMV and pray for the leadership to continue to grow students every day.

Summer W., Class of ’19, currently working on a degree in developmental psychology with a minor in dance

YMV has encouraged me to use my talents even further after high school. I am the lead piano player at my church and I have sung specials and been a part of several worship events for the church. I am truly grateful for the years I have spent at YMV and I have made lifelong friendships because of it.

Sarah H., class of ’14

I first learned to play the saxophone [at YMV] and ended up continuing to play it all through college. It was at YMV that I first thought about becoming a music teacher myself. It was one of the music teachers at YMV that truly showed me how to be a caring, loving person and helped shape me into the educator that I am today. I am very thankful for my time at YMV, and would not have changed it for anything else.

Shawn L., BA in Biblical Studies and BS in Music Education, Lancaster Bible College; currently 4th-12th grade orchestra teacher at Lancaster Mennonite School

YMV was the foundation, passion, and drive for me to continue in my music career.  I look back on my high school years and realize how much YMV shaped my life in a positive way.  The friends that I made at YMV are still some of my best friends many years later.  I  am thankful for YMV and the impact that it had on my life.

Gavin H., BA Church Music & Vocal Performance from Univ. of Valley Forge; MME Music Education w/concentration in conducting from Old Dominion Univ; currently Education Manager at Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, director of Suffolk Center Children’s Chorus, and director and singer for Doorway Singers

YMV turned my enjoyment of music into a passion that will last me a lifetime…giving me a chance to sharpen my skills among like-minded peers in a wholesome Christian environment.  Because of YMV, I associate playing music with joy, friendship, and peace, which helps me to remain balanced even in the most difficult times.

Thomas S.,  Class of ’15, BS in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and minor in Biomedical Sciences, Liberty University; Currently a third-year MD/PhD student studying Microbiology & Immunology at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine

YMV helped me to grow so much as a musician, friend, and Christian.  The giving teachers there inspired me to work hard at my musical talent for God’s glory and to love my neighbor.  YMV is a special place, set apart from both the public school and the home school, where children can grow together to be men and women after God’s own heart.

Jimmy W., Bachelor of Music Education (instrumental) Old Dominion University, currently teaching English, music, and the Bible in China

YMV was a great time of formation for me and helped orient my priorities in life, putting God first and emphasizing service to others, an influence for which I was very thankful when transitioning from homeschooling to attending a public college.  It’s also full of welcoming, friendly, and fun people as well as great music!

Matthew M., Class of ’16, Physics Major at College of William and Mary, playing clarinet and saxophone in William and Mary Wind Ensemble, and mandolin in William and Mary Appalachian Music Ensemble

Through YMV, I formed many friendships, both casual and professional, and I even got my first paid gig through one of my YMV friends.  During my time at YMV, the faculty not only taught me how to become a better musician but also how to model Godly character both in music and academia.  They showed Christ’s love through their speech and actions and made an active effort to glorify God through their teaching.  My time at YMV is, and will remain, a cherished gem in my treasury of memories.

Benjamin S., Class of ’17, Trumpet Performance graduate student at DePaul School of Music, performer with the Lexington Brass Band, Tidewater Winds, and Symphonicity, and sectionals coach and private teacher for a local high school

I learned more than I can ever thank all of the staff at YMV for.  YMV has helped me be more respectful of my teachers and fellow students.  The most valuable lesson I learned from YMV is to always be ready to do what needs to be done even if you don’t know what needs to be done.

Patrick M., Class of ’18, Marine Systems Engineering Major at Maine Maritime Academy

I loved my time at YMV. All the friends I made, even some of the staff, became like family. Y’all were a big help in shaping my senior year and me as an adult. I thank you so much.

Tamaia C., Class of ’08, currently a Certified Lactation Consultant and business owner