1. Music clearly runs deep in your family. What are some of your earliest musical memories, and how did they shape your relationship with the arts?
My earliest memories of music go back to childhood. I remember singing and dancing to the music of The King and I in first grade, and later, in fifth grade, attending ballet performances—especially Swan Lake, with its exquisite music. Hearing the Beatles for the first time as a teenager was another defining moment.
These early experiences made music feel joyful, expressive, and essential. They shaped my appreciation for the arts not just as entertainment, but as something that stays with you and becomes part of who you are.
2. Was there a particular person or people who helped spark your lifelong connection to music and the arts?
My parents were enormously influential. My father played clarinet and loved big band music, especially Artie Shaw. My mother had a deep love of opera—Nessun Dorma still immediately brings her to mind—and she made sure we were exposed to culture wherever we lived. She took us not only to symphonies and operas, but also to museums and art galleries. Later in life, she even became a costume designer.
My brother also played an important role. He studied opera and piano in college in Germany and is now an accomplished musician and composer.
The person who continues to influence music in my life most today, however, is my husband, Steve. He surrounds our family with music from many genres. He managed and performed in his own rock band in high school and college, plays piano, saxophone, and guitar, and sings constantly. Music truly fills our home.
All of our children play musical instruments, and along with our grandchildren, siblings, and other relatives, we regularly attend Plymouth Philharmonic concerts together.
3. How did you first become involved with the Plymouth Philharmonic, and what drew you to support the organization at a board level?
Paula Harris and Anne Trevisani invited me to join the finance committee because of my professional background. At the time, I had only attended one concert. But as I became more involved, I quickly realized what a special organization the Phil is.
I fell in love with the music, the musicians, and the symbiotic relationship between the artistic and operational sides of the organization. Steven Karidoyanes often jokes that I’m the “bean counter,” but I also bring a deep arts background to the role. Attending League of American Orchestras conferences and seeing how orchestras operate nationwide further strengthened my appreciation for the work we do here.
4. As a CPA, you bring a unique skill set to the board. How does your professional background influence how you support a cultural institution like the Phil?
Nonprofits are mission-driven organizations, not profit-driven ones, and many of my clients fall into that category. From a finance committee perspective, our role is to plan responsibly, project ahead, and ensure compliance—while always keeping the mission front and center.
In an arts organization, the artistic work must be protected. Our job is to support it, not control it. Preserving live orchestral music—its history, its excellence, and its future—is what motivates me. We don’t drive the artistic vision; we figure out how to sustain it.
5. What might surprise people about the financial and organizational side of running a nonprofit orchestra?
In many ways, it runs like a sophisticated business—with payroll, ticket sales, fundraising, staffing, and long-term planning. There are many variables, and fundraising is always the most challenging piece.
Every time I attend a concert, I am inspired by how Steven Karidoyanes creates such beautiful music with the wonderful musicians, alongside our Associate Conductor Neil Hampton. I truly don’t know how they do it every time. I also marvel at our Executive Director Kara McEachern and at Erin, Izzy, and Melissa, who seamlessly create such a wonderful experience for audiences. I leave each concert thinking, Okay, I’d better get back to work.
6. Why do you feel it’s important for professionals outside the arts to actively support cultural organizations?
Music enriches our lives in profound ways. It feeds the soul, calms us, challenges us, and brings joy. Live music, especially, is deeply immersive and meaningful. Music has been part of my life since the very beginning, and I can’t imagine life without it.
7. How do you see the Plymouth Philharmonic enriching life on the South Shore—both onstage and beyond the concert hall?
The Phil brings an extraordinary cultural dimension to Plymouth and the surrounding communities. An orchestra of this caliber enhances quality of life while also contributing significantly to the local economy. It elevates the region both culturally and economically.
8. If someone is considering supporting the orchestra for the first time, what would you tell them?
Please do. I began my involvement 17 years ago, and now the Phil is such an important part of my life. Attend events, volunteer and make a financial contribution—over time, you’ll discover a community filled with fascinating people, incredible music, and meaningful experiences year-round. Being part of something you helped sustain is deeply rewarding.
Behind the Scenes
What I want people to know is how many skilled, dedicated people work behind the scenes to make each performance successful. From the office staff to the technical crew to everyone working in the hall, there is a shared commitment to getting it right. The level of planning and care is remarkable, and everyone involved puts their heart and soul into this organization.
