From the Top Alums Named 2011 Davidson Fellows

From the Top alums Simone Porter and Arianna Körting have just been named 2011 Davidson Fellows! Each year the Davidson Fellows Scholarship program awards $50,000, $25,000 and $10,000 scholarships to extraordinary young people, 18 and under, who have completed a significant piece of work in the fields of science, technology, mathematics, music or literature.

Simone on Show 165 in Highland Park, IL

“The Davidson Fellows, who are on the cutting edge of science, mathematics and technology, and at the forefront of music and literature, demonstrate the potential of America’s next generation of innovative leaders,” said Jan Davidson, Ph.D., co-founder of the Davidson Institute. “We applaud the tenacity of these gifted youth who embrace the challenge to succeed.”

Simone, a violinist who appeared on Show 165 at age 11, received the top scholarship of $50,000 for her violin portfolio “Performance as Soundtrack of Process and Identity,” which examines the progression of performance preparation, from the development of technique and interpretation, to the emergence of a professional identity. Through performance, Simone believes music has the potential to aid our society, and help achieve a kinder, more tolerant attitude toward ourselves and our natural environment.

Arianna was a featured pianist on Show 175 when she was 13, and was awarded $25,000 for her “Celebration of Life Through the Piano,” which showcases Haydn, Ginastera and Liszt. Through the piano, she hopes to bring audiences into the lives of the great composers to experience their humor, tenderness and brilliance. She believes music has the power to transform space and time because it has been a constant presence even through the most difficult moments in history.

Please join us in congratulating Simone and Arianna on their tremendous accomplishments!

About the Davidson Institute
Founded by Bob and Jan Davidson in 1999, the Davidson Institute for Talent Development recognizes, nurtures and supports profoundly intelligent young people, and provides opportunities for them to develop their talents to make a positive difference. The Institute offers support through a number of programs and services, including the Davidson Fellows program and The Davidson Academy.