Thank you for making a donation to NJIO in memory of Peter Vernon. He had returned to violin playing after 53 years away from the instrument and found a musical home with us. Peter joined New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra (NJIO) in 2013 at age 72 and was a beloved member of the violin section in all four of our orchestras over the years.

Peter spoke at our 30th Anniversary Concert in 2024 and said this about joining NJIO:

"Warren - and the others, who were there that day - immediately welcomed me, handed me the music we intended to play and pointed me to an empty seat. No one was judgmental regarding the lack of quality the music they heard. They understood that I loved classical music and just accepted me for wanting to play with them.

And, that, ladies and gentlemen is what I want to emphasize for you today. That we are a group of over 100 musicians, who come to rehearsals and play in the concerts because we want to play...

On a personal note, I admit to you that although I am having a hard time keeping up with everybody, I CAN’T WAIT to come to a rehearsal. And that is what this group represents to all of us…. To play glorious music in the company of the staff and of the friends we made over the years. No judgements... Just camaraderie to do what we all enjoy doing."

Your gift to NJIO honors Peter's memory and provides for the future of our organization and mission. Your support help us bring free and accessible classical music concerts to people of all ages across New Jersey, and provides a musical home for musicians like Peter to continue their craft with joy. Thank you.

Celebration of Life for Peter Vernon