In Austin, Texas, the classical music community is commemorating the life and aspirations of Draylen Mason, the 17-year-old who fell victim to a package bomb in the 2018 Austin bombings. A recent concert put on by Austin Soundwaves and the unveiling of a concert space at KMFA named in his honor have kept Mason's spirit alive in the local and musical communities.
Mason's mother, Shamika Wilson, spoke highly of her son, stating, "One of the things Draylen has always said was that he was going to leave a legacy," according to KVUE. KMFA's director of broadcasting & content, Anthony McSpadden, echoed this sentiment with the assertion that "It's very important for us to keep his name alive and attached to music." The radio station’s new concert hall bears Mason's name, and a Composer-in-Residence program created in his memory represents efforts to move music forward in his stead.
The station also announced that the 2024 Composer-in-Residence is Austin-based cellist Sophie Mathieu, who expressed the honor she felt "sort of furthering that legacy" as reported by KVUE. In addition, Austin Soundwaves has created a fellowship program, where high school students explore music and social justice themes for a year, culminating in a major performance.
Artistic Director of Austin Soundwaves, Patrick Slevin, shared with CBS Austin how "He was always looking for ways to create and use his music to bring the community and people from different backgrounds together through music." The city has embraced Mason’s memory through various honors including a dedicated “Draylen Mason Tribute Day” on March 3rd, local youth orchestra scholarships, and community art murals.
The influence of Draylen Mason's youthful vision and talent in music crafts a legacy that transcends the heinous act that cut his budding career short. His family, his mentors, as well as aspiring musicians across Austin, now strive to perpetuate the harmonious message he composed through his dedication to unity, and the very music halls and initiatives established in his name serve as a conduit for his undying melody.
