VSA arts 22nd International Young Soloists Concert FREE at the Kennedy Center May 23, 2006

The recipients of the VSA arts 2006 Young Soloists Award, pianist Jacquelyn Weitz, 22, of Billings, Montana; cellist Brian Sanders, 22, of Madison, Wisconsin; vocalist Nichola Kouzes, 14, of Colleyville, Texas; and vocalist Giovanna Maira, 19, of Osasco, Sao Paulo, Brazil, will perform on May 23, 2006 in the Family Theater at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

The VSA arts Young Soloists Program was created to identify talented young musicians with disabilities and support and encourage them in their pursuit of a professional career. A committee of prominent music professionals selects the award recipients, granting each a $5,000 award and the opportunity to perform at the Kennedy Center.

The performance, hosted by Andrea Roane, W*USA 9 News morning anchor, starts at 7:30 p.m.

Visit www.vsarts.org/concert for free tickets. To learn more about the Young Soloists Award recipients, visit www.vsarts.org or call (202) 628-2800.

VSA arts is an international nonprofit organization founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith to create a society where all people with disabilities learn through, participate in and enjoy the arts. VSA arts provides educators, parents, and artists with resources and the tools to support arts programming in schools and communities. VSA arts showcases the accomplishments of artists with disabilities and promotes increased access to the arts for people with disabilities. Each year millions of people participate in VSA arts programs through a nationwide network of affiliates and in more than 60 countries around the world. VSA arts is an affiliate of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Official Website: http://www.vsarts.org/concert