ConnecTones
At ConnecTones, we are passionate about connecting talented high school musicians with a wide variety of audiences. The ultimate goal is to use music as a medium to create meaningful connections between musicians and audiences that enrich the lives of both music creators and music lovers.
Our Work
Celebrating Music and Connection!
Recognizing the impact of music on individuals and communities, ConnecTones is dedicated to connecting musicians and music enthusiasts to create a bond that celebrates our humanity
Our Mission
Making Human Connections Through Music
At its heart, ConnecTones is about joy, music, and connection! Music uniquely can nourish us, make spirits soar, and help us connect, enjoy the moment, and appreciate each other. Music takes us on emotional journeys that we can share. At ConnecTones our goal is to create a complete musical experience. We bring together student musicians to perform and share music, while also connecting with our audience. Our visits are about both music and conversation so that we can learn from our senior audiences who share musical experiences and wisdom.
Our Future
Serving Our Local Communities and Beyond
We currently visit multiple locations in Northeastern Massachusetts and hope to continue to expand the program while staying true to our origins and mission. We hope to bring music to locations across a wider geographic area.
ConnecTones Chronicles
Click on the photos to read about some of our recent activities!
"You guys need to be on TV so everyone can see you"
"'My Way' by Frank Sinatra is my favorite!"
"My grandpa played piano. My music comes from him. I sing all types of music."
"Everyone here loves South Pacific, the musical!"
"My grandmother used to play ragtime for me when I was little."
"Beethoven is my favorite composer."
"Bossa Nova makes me want to get up and dance!"
"We missed you while you were at music camp. You've grown at least 3 inches!"
"When I was growing up, all my cousins and I played instruments. The eight of us would play in a recital and I played the mandolin."
"I'm so glad you played 'Take Five'! That was the first song I learned to play on alto saxophone!"
"I just received a text. My grandchild was born during your performance!"
"These boys have a bright future."
"I feel like I'm at a jazz club!"
"You made the piano sing!"
"I'm glad your performance encouraged me to give Beethoven a second look!"
"If Isaac Albéniz left home at age 12 to play piano, I hope you don't leave! You need to finish school!"
"'Girl From Ipanema' is my favorite song from when I was a teenager!"
"Happy birthday, Tyler!"
"Better each time!"
"Leyang's Vivaldi from last visit was AMAZING!"
"I remember back when Tyler and Leyang first started performing here. I can't believe how they've grown!"
"When will you be back?"
About Us
Our Origin
ConnecTones was formally launched in March 2024, but its origins begin with a childhood friendship. Tyler and Leyang, who shared interests in music and math, had been friends since 6th grade but were separated by Leyang's relocation to a new school system and the COVID pandemic. Tyler and Leyang began to perform piano at nursing homes and senior living and rehabilitation in April 2022 at residences located near both their homes to continue spending time together. They loved the opportunity to not only connect with each other, but also connect with other music lovers in their audience. Over time, the number of residences to visit increased, and more music students joined. It grew into the program that we now know as ConnecTones!