About Music in Momentum
Music in Momentum is a student-led initiative. The mission is simple: to uplift and support children by sharing the joy and inspiration of live music.
Music can do more than entertain. It can heal, inspire, and empower. That’s why bringing live violin performances to public spaces and events, using the proceeds to support organizations that help children thrive through education, health, creativity, and emotional support.
What We Do
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Perform live violin music at restaurants, markets, schools, and events
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Donate 100% of proceeds to child-focused charities and programs
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Organize outreach events to bring music directly to children
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Advocate for music education as a tool for emotional and developmental growth
Our Objective
Millions of children face barriers that prevent them from reaching their full potential. Music in Momentum aims to:
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Expose children to the beauty of music, especially those who may not otherwise have access to live performance or music education.
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Raise funds for programs that provide critical support to kids
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Encourage emotional growth, creativity, and confidence through the power of sound.
Whether it’s performing at a local café or partnering with a children’s nonprofit, every note we play carries a message.
Jayden Yao - Founder
A junior at Parkland High School in Allentown, PA, Jayden Yao is a passionate violinist with extensive experience performing both as a soloist and in orchestras at the local, regional, and state levels.
He has had the honor of serving as Associate Concertmaster at the 2025 PMEA Regionals Festival, Principal Second at the 2025 PMEA Districts Festival, and Concertmaster of the Parkland High School Orchestra. He is also a member of the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra (PYO) and a former member of the Philadelphia Young Artists Orchestra (PYAO). Through these groups, he has had the incredible opportunity to perform at prestigious venues like Marian Anderson Hall and Perelman Theater at the Kimmel Center.
In addition to orchestral work, Jayden regularly performs at weddings and professional events as part of a string quartet. He has received several awards, including 3rd place in the OPUS Pennsylvania Competition, 3rd place twice in the American Music Talent Competition, and is proud to be a three-time recipient of the Schadt String Scholarship.
Outside of music, he enjoys playing tennis and working on science and engineering projects.
Sonia Lee - Member
A sophomore at Parkland High School in Allentown, PA, Sonia Lee is an enthusiastic violin player performing as a soloist and in orchestras. She made it into the 2025 PMEA Districts Festival and served as a leader in the Parkland High School Orchestra. She also was a previous member of the JSP orchestra for 2 years, serving as the Concertmaster. Additionally, Sonia performs at weddings with her brother and performs with a string quartet. She has won piano competitions at the State level 2 years in a row and is a recipient of the Schadt String scholarship. Sonia is also President of the Young Musicians Club of Allentown. Outside of music, she is a Varsity tennis singles player and enjoys serving as the Camelot for Children Secretary.
Medha Nair - Member
A junior at Parkland High School in Allentown, PA, Medha Nair is a dedicated flute player, having performed in both marching and concert band, and will soon be playing in the symphonic band. She has played for over 7 years and takes pleasure in learning new stands tunes. During marching band season, she spends her time practicing for the halftime show by rehearsing music and drill coordinates. During her time in concert band, she performed as second chair in the flute 2 section. She was also chosen to play for the graduation ceremony of the 2025 graduating class. Outside of music, she participates in kickboxing classes and enjoys studying human anatomy.
Sushal Boddeda - Member
A sophomore at Parkland High School in Allentown, PA, Sushal Boddeda is a keen flute player, having performed in both marching and concert band. He has played flute for over 7 years and not only plays the western transverse flute, but the Indian Bansuri and Chinese Dizi aswell.
During marching band season, he spends his time practicing for the halftime show by rehearsing music and drill coordinates. During his time at concert band, in his freshman year he performed as first chair in the flute 1 section. He performed 2 solos, one for the winter concert and one during the spring concert. He was also chosen to play for the graduation ceremony for the class 2025.
Outside of music, he competes in Scholastic Scrimmage and volunteers for CUECF, an organization dedicated to local environmental conservation.
