Youth Orchestra remembers bombing victim Draylen Mason

AUSTIN, Texas (FOX 7 Austin) - The Austin Youth Orchestra celebrated the life of 17-year-old Draylen Mason in a benefit concert Sunday afternoon. The talented musician was killed in the Austin bombings last year on March 12.

The fun upbeat melodies danced off the stage at the Mcgee Performing Arts Center. It was standing room only as the Austin Youth Orchestra played tribute to one of their own.

The talented musician joined the AYO when he was in the sixth grade.

Anna Maria Solis, AYO music teacher, said over the years conductors and students watched Mason grow up.

"He lived a really great life, died very young but lived a very beautiful life in terms of making music, making friends and being involved in the community and I think those are key things we should celebrate."

AYO co-conductor Ricky Pringle remembers Mason as a hard worker. Pringle said Mason enjoyed all types of music and was well rounded.

Mason was a high school senior and well on his way to college. He was accepted into the selective Butler School of Music at the University of Texas at Austin.

Although Mason is gone, his memory will live on.

Mayor Steve Adler proclaimed March 3 as Draylen Mason Tribute Day.

A scholarship fund has also been setup in Mason's name to assist young talented musicians like himself.

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