I joined the band in 2004 – after nearly 30 years of not playing my flute, with the exception of the occasional Christmas carol. Although I was intimidated to join this group – people were so supportive and welcoming, I decided to play a second set, and soon after jumped on the opportunity to take lessons from another band member who was a teacher and played professionally.
My journey with the Band has been, quite literally, life changing. I have met so many wonderful people that I now consider family. My skills as a player continue to grow, and I love traveling with the band to play in new venues and new cities. Some highlights include performing concerts at the Palace of Fine Arts, Grace Cathedral, and Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, as well as playing with other LGBA bands in Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Seattle, Indianapolis, Palm Springs, not to mention marching in countless parades around the Bay Area. It has also been an honor to serve on the Band’s Board of Directors since 2008. The organization has made many positive changes over the years, and it has been exciting to participate in the Band’s continued growth.
Outside of Band, I work in the field of Public Health on programs that advance health equity and promote community health.