Thanks for feedback everyone. I know it's not the school's job to make them feel good, but if the orchestra teacher gave him the nomination paperwork, and the sheet music, then the school IS involved. Like I said, these regional orchestras bring together the best kids from the area, all from the public/private schools they represent.

It's just a little disappointing, I guess, and agree it's a learning experience, that sometimes we will do our best, and achieve success, but not be recognized by certain people you think would notice. Agree 100% that motivation should be intrinsic, which you want to see begin to happen as children get older. Emotional learning :-)