From the 2011 Sonata Festival:
“The scope and organization of your festival was so impressive, from the facilities and judges right down to little girls making sure I had a cup of coffee. Classical music can be such a tough sell in parts of our society, until I experience what I did last week. Thank you, thank you for what you are doing to assure the art form is handed down to the next generation – I was so happy to be a part of it.”
Best wishes, Lea Kibler – 2011 Sonata Festival Clinician
“Thank you so much for your wonderful festival and all the work you have done – the program, the food, the ride, the hotel, the interview, etc. etc. You are truly an inspiration to me. Congratulations on the students who played in master classes as well. Well, we are packing here and getting ready to leave. Thanks for having us as part of your Festival and I hope this is the beginning of a great collaboration. You are so wonderful!”
From the 2010 Sonata Festival:
“Your annual announcement of the Sonata Festival brought back memories to me of all the years Zack played, and reminded me also to write a letter to you in thanks for all of the time and effort you’ve put in to this event. I know that Zack benefited so much playing in it, and each year he looked forward to trying his best. Watching from my vantage point, I was always amazed at the energy and enthusiasm you displayed each year, especially as it grew and grew, and your unflappable good nature juggling as many tasks as you did! You truly modeled a servant’s heart for everyone there.
Zack and I drove up to NYC last weekend, and I dropped him off in front of Julliard Sat. morning, just in front of the hurricane. He has a week of orientation, where they learn to navigate a little around the city, go to a play, kayak on the Hudson, etc before the intensity begins. He’s staying in the dorms there, says the food is great, and is generally having the time of his life. Mindy and I were not immediately on board with him going to New York, but we all prayed about it for months, and God clearly opened doors for Zack. He had a tremendous senior year in music, growing each month it seemed. He will be studying with Jerome Lowenthal, who was a student of Arthur Rubenstein, Zack told us. So I guess that’s a good thing. Maybe some of it will rub off 
Thanks again Ivy for your encouragement of Zack, and all the other young music students that you come across. I hope that your festival continues as a big success this year and in the future.”
Sincerely,
Dave Hughes, Parent of Zachary Hughes 2010 Senior Competition Winner