EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

I’ve loved singing ever since belting out the Police’s Don’t Stand So Close to Me next to my older sister’s turntable at full volume. As a recovering high school Spanish teacher and long time singer-songwriter, I’m delighted to work as PIF’s interim director knowing how music engages and inspires the whole person. Instruments and music instruction should be available to all regardless of socio-economic status, and Sonoma County is full of generous supporters who make that happen.

PRESIDENT

I've been playing flute, guitar, and bass for 35 years, and teaching music for almost 30 years. Dave Silva and I started PIF in 2017 to help raise funds for students who couldn't afford lessons. It’s incredible how much our simple goal has grown to include instrument exchange, community and school programs for those who need it most. We believe connection through music should be available to everyone.

SECRETARY

I ran my own business for 40 years before retiring, and now I help Play It Forward by organizing all the donated instruments and making sure they get to people who need them. I play guitar, bass, and piano, and I've been in bands around the Bay Area for almost 20 years. I still write my own songs and do some recording at home. What I love most about Play It Forward is helping everyone in our community get access to music, which is why I've volunteered on lots of committees since the organization started.

I've been teaching piano since I was 16 years old and have been with Play It Forward since after the Tubbs Fire in 2017, when I wanted to help our community through music. I used to be the Executive Director during the pandemic and raised over $50,000 through grants and donations. I believe music connects us to ourselves and each other. I enjoy all types of music depending on my mood, but sometimes after a day of teaching, I prefer the sound of silence!

I'm a retired lawyer with a career of helping people with disabilities. I joined our music foundation because I couldn't afford clarinet lessons as a kid — missing that opportunity stuck with me. I've served on public and nonprofit boards, and I use that experience to make sure everything runs smoothly at the Foundation. I love music, I went to Woodstock as a teenager and I still love music from the 60s like Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan.

I'm a retired electrician who loves fixing guitars, which is how I got involved with Play It Forward — I like helping fix guitars before they go to their forever homes. Music has been important to me since I was a kid - I remember pestering my parents for a guitar and the amazing feeling when I finally made it sound like songs on the radio! I play guitar and bass at open mics, enjoying everything from rock to Americana. My all-time favorite musician is Joni Mitchell. I volunteer because I know what it's like to really want an instrument, and I want to help anyone who dreams of playing music.

I’m always eager to provide service to Play It Forward ‘s goals using my skills as an educator, administrator, project manager, and volunteer. Every involved student and family is positively effected. It’s inspiring to work with those who always bring their smile and dedication.

I personally experienced the power of PIF’s mission to provide music education for all while learning new piano pieces for my pageant journey with Miss America. Had I not gotten the scholarship, I would not be going to Miss California for the 3rd time. As a new board member, I’m ready to bring my 21st century business skills to keep playing it forward. I love all kinds of music, from classical to old country, like Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, and Waylon Jennings.