But the most touching response came from ordinary music lovers around the world. A grandmother in Ohio started an online fundraiser to help Maria. Music students at universities were organizing concerts to raise money for homeless youth in Maria's honor.
Children were sending letters and drawings to the hotel where they thought Maria was staying. "Dear Piano Girl," wrote an 8-year-old from Texas. "Your music made my mommy cry happy tears. I hope you get lots of food and a nice place to live."
Local musicians in New York were organizing a benefit concert. "This girl's story has reminded us all why music matters," said the organizer. "We want to help her and other young people like her."
The story was changing how people thought about homelessness and talent. Social workers reported that donations to homeless shelters had increased dramatically since the video went viral. People were paying more attention to homeless individuals on the streets.
"Maria's story has opened people's hearts," said Dr. Jennifer Lopez, who ran a program for homeless youth. "Suddenly, everyone realizes that the person they walk past on the street might have incredible gifts and dreams."
Music therapy programs were getting more funding. Schools were starting programs to identify and help talented students from poor families. The video had sparked a movement to find and support young artists who might otherwise be overlooked.
But as the offers and attention continued to grow, Jonathan became more worried about protecting Maria. He knew that all this fame and money could be dangerous for a young person who had been through so much trauma.
Late that night, Jonathan sat in his hotel room making lists of all the people who wanted to meet Maria: record companies, concert halls, television shows, movie producers, book publishers. The list went on and on.
He thought about Victor Petrov and wondered what his old friend would want for his daughter. Probably not fame and pressure, but safety, education, and time to heal from all the pain she had experienced.
The music world was ready to embrace Maria with open arms. But Jonathan wondered if Maria was ready for the music world. Tomorrow he would have to help her understand what was happening and make some very important decisions about her future.
Outside his window, New York City continued its endless rhythm. Somewhere in those streets were other talented young people who, like Maria, just needed someone to believe in them and give them a chance.