© From CNN Money

Says violinist James Buswell, who gives master classes at the New England Conservatory and coaches Madalyn in violin and both girls in chamber music: "These kids are both in the very top echelon of talent for their age."

They are also stretching their parents' finances to the breaking point.

Marcel, 44, a software engineer and the family's sole breadwinner, earns a comfortable $135,000. But Lea, 53, figures they'll spend more than $40,000 this year on the girls' music[/b], covering everything from lessons to the gas required on the long drives to competitions. And that's after shelling out nearly $200,000 last year [/b]when both girls needed new instruments.

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And who says you can't make a good living in the music industry. Thank you Frank.

Dr. Buswell is obviously a good salesman too. I doubt that those parents would have shelled out close to a quarter mill if Buswell said something like "what other subjects are they good in?"

These are very lucky children to have parents who support them emotionally and financially. However, there are many of us who are not far off the same situation. I have three children heavily involved in music - one a voice major at an Eastern university. There are private voice, piano and theory lessons for each. Two acoustic pianos to maintain (let alone purchase). Two digitals. Choir fees and tours in the last few years across Canada, and to Europe and China. Festival fees (we have been in up to 30 classes). Conservatory exam fees. Accompanist fees. Recording equipment. Music to purchase. The list goes on and on and costs many thousands of dollars.

We are fortunate to be able to afford to do this, but also, we would rather have a good piano than a fancy car. What value do you put on having three kids who can break into three part harmony at the drop of a hat with a blend only siblings can achieve? I will not retire as early as I might have otherwise, but believe me it is worth it. I feel for those who do not have the means to provide the same opportunities for their children. When I read a story like Trucker's I realize what a gift music can be.

Thanks for sharing this news, Frank. Our family watched Madalyn & Cecily perform last summer at a Young Artist Concert in western Mass. I met with their dad, Marcel, right after the the concert. Our brief conversation later turned to how his daughters spend a lot of time working on their music. With a grin, I remembered the last thing he said to me at the end of our conversation, "It sure beats playing Nintendo".